Labor Day signals more than the unofficial end of summer: it also kicks off one of the busiest hiring seasons of the year, sometimes referred to as the “September Surge.”
If you (like many of us) hit pause on your job search this summer, now is the time to bring your focus back to positioning yourself for new opportunities this fall.
And it all starts with a resume refresh.
Whether you’re looking for a temporary role, a temp-to-hire opportunity, or a full-time position, here’s how to make your resume stand out during the bustling hiring season ahead.
1. Start With a Seasonal Refresh
It can be helpful to think of your resume as a LinkedIn profile — it should reflect where you’re headed, not just where you’ve been. Don’t get too bogged down in the what. Think instead about using your resume to highlight the why: why you loved the world you did, why your roles made you a better candidate, and why those experiences would make you a great team member.
Some things to consider adding or refreshing on your resume:
- Timely and relevant keywords: More and more, employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) or AI to scan resumes, so make sure to use specific keywords like “harvest operations,” “warehouse logistics,” “machine operator,” or “forklift certified” if they apply.
Tip: It can help to save one “master” version of your resume, then create a couple of alternate versions that speak to the industry you’d like to work in and the roles that are currently hiring.
- Relevant experience first: Highlight recent positions, certifications, or projects that directly connect to the roles you want. Say you spent this summer in a temp job that doesn’t align with your resume history — that’s OK. What skills did you pick up there that you can bring with you into your next job, regardless of industry?
- Take a cue from Marie Kondo and declutter: Outdated jobs, irrelevant skills, and long-winded descriptions can distract recruiters — keep it lean and relevant.
2. Confidently Acknowledge Employment Gaps
If you’ve been out of work this summer, don’t overthink it. Instead, address it and then bring the focus back to what’s more important.
- Be transparent but positive: Briefly note if you were “exploring opportunities,” “building skills,” or “focusing on professional development.”
- Call out transferable skills: Seasonal work, volunteering, or side projects can still contribute to your skill set . Call out how those experiences make you a stronger candidate now.
- Stay present: Employers care more about what you can do today than why you weren’t working in June.
3. Call Out Recent Training or Certifications
As seasonal and temp-to-hire roles open up, employers want job-ready candidates — and they want them now. If you already have the skills, tell them! Adding them directly to your resume can set you apart. Think:
- Forklift or equipment certifications for manufacturing and wine industry roles
- Food handling certifications for ag or food production jobs
- Safety training relevant to outdoor, warehouse, or shift-based work
If you don’t have recent training, Star Staffing can often point you toward free or low-cost resources to strengthen your resume before applying.
4. Don’t Forget the Soft Skills
Hiring managers want more than technical experience — especially for roles that rely on teamwork and adaptability. Add soft skills like:
- Punctuality and ability to meet deadlines
- Flexibility during peak production times (and keeping cool under pressure)
- Team collaboration and communication
These traits are essential for temp and seasonal jobs, where workers often need to adapt quickly to changing demands.
5. Get Expert Help (For Free)
If you’re unsure where to start, Star Staffing can help. Our recruiters review resumes daily and know exactly what local employers are looking for. We can:
- Suggest industry-specific keywords
- Connect you with training resources
- Match you with open roles in wine, agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, and more
Bottom Line
Labor Day is more than a holiday weekend — it’s a turning point in the job market. By refreshing your resume now, you’ll be ready to take advantage of Northern California’s busiest hiring season and land a role that fits your goals.
Looking for work?
Explore Star Staffing’s latest jobs or connect with one of our recruiters today.