Searching for a new job is always a daunting task. There are many things you need to consider, like where you want to work, what you will wear, and how you can make your résumé look its best.

Did you also know that there are good and bad times to begin your search? When you’re looking for a job has a lot to do with what job you will get. Certain times of year are better for finding jobs than others, making timing another important thing to consider as your start your job hunt.

Throughout the year, companies have different events that help determine whether they are looking to hire new employees. Starting your job search at the right time is the best way to make sure you are aware of all the job opportunities out there so you can get the job that suits you best.

Here is a rundown of the best and worst months throughout the year to search for a new job.

Starting your job search at the beginning of the new year is the best time. This is when companies usually know both their budget and their needs for the year, and they’re better able to hire and afford new employees. Those who find a job during the months of January and February are more likely to obtain full-time, long-term employment.

Many companies aren’t very productive when it comes to hiring new employees at the end of the past year, leaving their job boards full of positions that need to be filled as soon as possible. Because of this, January is a great time to throw your hat in the ring.

Imagine America Foundation’s Job Hunt Tip

Wait until the middle of the month to send your résumé. January is a month that’s slow to start due to the holidays. Many times, employees gradually trickle back into work after their time off and it can take longer for them to get back in touch with you. Don’t let your résumé end up at the bottom of the pile; send it in during the middle of the month when things are back in full swing.

While the very best time of year to find a job is often in the first two months, early spring is still a good time to begin your job search. Companies will still have jobs that need to be filled as they continue to fill the gaps in their business.

Late spring and early summer can also be a big time for companies to release new products, which leaves them needing more employees to support their launches. This crunch can also mean that managers are more willing to spend the money to hire who they need, which can help spur job creation.

Imagine America Foundation’s Job Hunt Tip

During this season, try to get your résumé out there as soon as possible. The longer into the spring you wait, the fewer promising opportunities you might have to consider. Don’t drag your feet! If you know you’re not happy where you’re currently working, start applying right away in the late winter or early spring.

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The summer months are not usually a good time to search for a new job. At this point in the year, companies have spent the money they budgeted for hiring and are not looking for new employees. Because of this, recruiters are also not actively looking for new employees during these months. Jobs that are advertised during this time of the year may not be the most attractive for applicants, as they’re often entry-level positions or pay minimum wage. This summer slowdown doesn’t mean that no jobs will be available, but it does mean you may have to look harder for the job you really want. Make sure you widen your search so you can see what’s out there if you do end up looking for employment during this time of year.

Imagine America Foundation’s Job Hunt Tip

Even though the summer is a slow time for job hunting, it doesn’t mean you should take a break completely. These months are a great chance to update your résumé and do you research on different companies. This will help you be more prepared and know which companies are the best fit for what you are looking for.

The months of September and October represent the third and final wave of job hiring. After the summer slowdown, managers are returning to work from their summer vacations and feel refreshed and ready to close out the year on a high—and they may be looking for new employees. Many times, managers want to fill any open positions they have so funding for the next year will continue. By hiring someone to fill the gaps in the company, managers can prove to those who create the budget that these jobs are critical to the company’s productivity.

Imagine America Foundation’s Job Hunt Tip

The process of applying and interviewing for a job tends to be more laidback during this time of year. Don’t let this more relaxed pace sway you into being too casual. Even if managers don’t seem in a rush to interview and hire, still be on your A game and put your best foot forward.

Unless you are looking for part-time or seasonal employment, the last two months of the year are the hardest times to look for a job. Many hiring managers are out of town or off for the holiday season. By this time of year, they have spent their budget and are not looking to bring on new employees until they enter their new fiscal year. In some cases, human resources may even be asked to hold off on all hiring due to budgetary constraints.

Imagine America Foundation’s Job Hunt Tip

Take the holidays to search job boards for positions you would be interested in. You can then tweak your résumé to fit a specific company. The last two months of the year are also a great time to beef up your skills by taking a short class or earning a certification that can help you get the new job you are interested in. The best thing about November and December is that the new year is right around the corner—and so is the perfect time to look for a new job!

Be aware that these peaks and valleys may vary based on industry, region, or company—for the best shot at your dream job. keep your résumé updated and your ear to the ground all year long!