While we all need a break, job seekers considering a vacation may feel anxious about abandoning their job search for even a few weeks while they unwind.  The anxiety about their job search progress (or lack thereof) can suck the enjoyment out of a job seeker’s vacation. Below are a few tips on how a vacationing job seeker can safely incorporate their job search into a vacation and still get some much needed rest and relaxation:

1. Make sure you take along your tools. A small laptop and a smartphone will ensure that you’re prepared if you get a call from an employer or recruiter while on vacation.
2. Set aside a small amount of time during your vacation to nurture your job search.  However, don’t use more than 20 percent of your vacation time to look for a job, because doing so will only create stress. An hour a day or every other day spent on your job search is probably sufficient.
3. Do you job search first thing in the morning BEFORE you start any outings or tours.  If you work on your job search before you leave the hotel room, your mind will be at ease and you won’t feel guilty about having a good time with the remainder of your day.
4. Don’t try to launch a full scale job search while on vacation.  Instead, do small things such as check emails, follow-up and send off one or two resumes during your time away.
5. Make sure that you have some printed resumes and business cards available just in case you meet a prospect at one of your vacation destinations. Job seekers are likely to find employment opportunities when and where they least expect it, so be prepared.