There are many reasons why you might search for a seasonal job. You may be home from school for the holidays, or simply need some extra cash to put toward gifts or travel. With that in mind, this article explains how to find seasonal employment this year.
Create the Perfect Resume
Your seasonal employment may only be part-time and last a few months, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to put effort into your resume. Your resume is a snapshot of your experience, so make sure it’s up to date and professional. Use an online service to ensure you stand out from the competition.
Network
When you’re looking for a temporary situation, it often boils down to who you know. Network with friends and associates from previous jobs or prior volunteer service.
Watch Your Social Media Activity
A vast majority of employers check applicants’ social media accounts before calling them in for an interview. Scrub your Facebook, Instagram, and other social media accounts for negative information about yourself, such as photographs of doing inappropriate things in public or patronizing the competition. It’s important to remain as inoffensive as possible.
Be Flexible
Whether you need a seasonal gig in retail, a hotel, or in construction, employers are looking for flexibility. Employers are most interested in your ability to work weekends, nights, and holidays. Be very clear about your schedule or you may find yourself getting kicked to the curb the first time you request a Saturday evening off.
Understand the Pros and Cons
Even though it’s only a temporary situation, there are still many pros and cons associated with seasonal employment. Go into your job hunt with this understanding and you’ll be able to justify negatives such as low pay and an undesirable schedule. Seasonal shift work often provides hefty discounts, and may even help you get your foot in the door if you’re interested in full-time employment at some point down the road.
Be Honest
Hiring managers know that seasonal workers aren’t applying for their dream job. Don’t blow smoke during your interview by claiming that clerking at a toy store is your ideal position if you’re in school for law enforcement. It’s perfectly fine to be up front and let them know you’re simply trying to pay your way through school or need a little extra money to cover Christmas.
Dress Your Best
Seasonal does not equate to sloppy. Maintain pride in your appearance whether you’re dropping off a resume, filling out an application, or simply scoping mall stores for opportunities. Not sure what to wear? There are plenty of online guides to ensure you put your best foot forward.
Answer Calls
In this day and age, many of us avoid answering phone calls. When you’re on the hunt for a new job, it’s essential that you answer any calls you receive to ensure you don’t miss an opportunity for an interview. To that end, remember to keep your device charged.
Expand Opportunities
While you may just be selling yourself for a small hourly wage now, there’s no reason that your temporary employment can’t lead to long-term opportunities. Keep in mind,, many companies are more likely to hire people who’ve worked for them in the past, so make sure to show your commitment by arriving on time for your interview and your workday if hired. The best companies for seasonal work include Target, UPS, Michaels, and a host of big-box department stores, each of which have plenty of opportunity for advancement. You never know when your seasonal side gig may turn into a lucrative long-term career.
Start a Side Business
One last option to consider, especially if you need a great deal of flexibility, is to start your own business. This can be putting some of your writing skills to the test, or even starting a dropshipping business. Whatever you choose, you’ll need a stand-out logo and a decent website. To save money, use an online logo design maker to create a unique logo that fits your style. Customizable templates and other design features make this task a cinch. Once your logo is ready, use a website builder like SquareSpace, Weebly or Wix.
Even if you don’t plan to stick around past December 25, the way you present yourself to your seasonal employers can have an impact on your next full-time job. This is especially true if you need a reference, so be honest, on time, and let your resume make a positive introduction.
