Among job seekers one of the more frequent reactions to the onset of summer is that it's not a great time to find a job because 'everyone is on vacation'.  In some ways I wish it were true, since the notion of everyone being on vacation at one time, as long as that includes me, is pretty enticing; but it's actually not accurate.  Certainly there are days or weeks when specific individuals are out of touch, but neither the business world nor academia shut down when the weather gets warm and ocean breezes beckon us. 

In my experience, summer is a great time to network: people are relaxed, there are lots of social opportunities to chat and meet new contacts, groups gather to enjoy activities that unite them because of specific interests, and there is little pressure to impress.  In short, people are more relaxed and open to conversation.

The rules of summer networking are a bit different from those for more formal networking situations, so here are some ideas for how you might make the most of upcoming opportunities to enhance your base of contacts and set the stage for ongoing conversations that could lead to career enhancement.

Don't spoil the fun mood of a summer event by using a networking approach that's too assertive.  The best approach is often to simply introduce yourself, explain your interest in the event or how you're acquainted with the host or hostess, and then focus on the other person.  Just be conversational - you may not get the chance to even mention your own situation - and that's fine.  Be certain you take note of contact names and make plans to follow-up if appropriate to have a more focused conversation.

Handing out resumes at the town soccer field is probably a bad idea.  This is a time to get to know more about the other people at the event and to let them get to know you.  Your objectives are to meet new contacts, reinvigorate current relationships and leave everyone feeling they enjoyed talking with you.  Your next meeting (or the one after that) is time enough for handing out your credentials. 

Be very aware of body language and subtleties.  At your neighborhood barbecue, if the fellow who lives down the street from you, who happens to be CEO of a target company of yours, gives off even the slightest vibe that he's there strictly for the thrill of the grill, don't even think of asking about business.  Compliment him on his superb secret seasonings and save your business networking for another time.

Don't wait too long to follow up.  A week or so is probably enough time to wait, but remember the 'dog years' state of mind.  For job seekers, every day seems like seven; while for others, it is one day.  The urgency you feel for moving things forward is simply not likely to be experienced by your contacts.  This is especially true in the summer, when a more relaxed attitude may prolong actions even more.  Be patient, be gracious, but don't let a key contact forget about you.

Keep networking.  You never know... the woman who comes to every local baseball game to cheer for her 10 year old who is throwing those wild pitches may be your best lead to a great new position.  And, oh yes, enjoy the summer.