Seasonal jobs can serve multiple purposes. They can be a great way to earn some extra cash during the summer and holiday seasons, but they can also help pave the way to a permanent position. After the “busy season”, some employers will extend permanent job offers to their top seasonal employees.
Whether your goal is long-term career planning or if it is to earn a few extra bucks, here are 5 tips to help you land a seasonal job.
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1. Start Your Job Search Early
Employers start hiring for their peak season early. If you are looking for a job around the holidays, employers usually start hiring in early fall. Similarly, if you’re looking for a summer job, employers will start hiring in the winter and early spring –possibly even earlier if you’re looking for an internship.
Bottom line: the earlier you apply, the better chance you have of obtaining the role that is your first choice.
2. Expand How You Search for (And Apply To) Jobs
Online job boards are an excellent tool to see what roles are available. Company websites can also be a valuable resource.
If you are looking for a retail role, it is perfectly acceptable to walk into the store and ask for an application. (If you choose this route, be sure to make sure you are dressed and act professionally).
3. Treat Your Seasonal Job Search Just Like It’s a Permanent Job Search
It doesn’t matter if you’re searching for a seasonal job or a permanent one, the job market is competitive. The more prepared and professional you are when you interview, the better impression you will leave with a job’s hiring manager.
Don’t cut corners when you fill out an application. Prepare ahead of time for your interview; research a company and prepare some questions of your own. When it is time for your interview, dress professionally and be honest about your intentions
Seasonal jobs are a great way to gain valuable working experience, make extra money, and open the door to a more permanent job
4. Be Flexible
The more flexible you are about things like start dates, work schedules, etc., the more appealing you will be in the eyes of a prospective employer. If you walk into an interview and demand a specific schedule that does not encompass their peak volume times, you may be negotiating yourself out of a job offer.
5. Treat Every Day Like It’s Your First Day on the Job
If you are offered a job, congratulations! But now the real work begins. Hiring managers like to see employees who take initiative, are reliable and work hard, so it is important you are putting your best foot forward every day when you are a seasonal employee. These are all factors that they will take into consideration when making permanent placement decisions and/or who they will bring back next year.
Bringing It All Together
Seasonal employment is a great way to make extra money, gain hands-on work experience, and open up permanent employment opportunities. Using these 5 tips to search for a seasonal job will help you prepare for your upcoming job search, make a good impression with employers, nail your interview, and secure the role you are looking for.
