2008 Woodie Awards
Tips to score that holiday job
Molly Helene Biehl
- Page 1 of 1
It’s the holidays: decorated storefront windows, hokey TV commercials, advertisements galore in the Sunday paper and sales, sales, sales. Last holiday, retail sales (defined as retail sales occurring in the months of November and December) fueled total spending of $438.6 billion. This accounted for one-fifth of all retail industry sales throughout the year, making the holiday season the most important time of the year for the industry.
However, no feat so big can be achieved without workers. Data from the National Retail Federation shows that holiday sales have traditionally spurred increased hiring for temporary employment. In fact, one survey reported that 58 percent of managers will add workers in the fourth quarter in order to meet holiday demands for goods and services.
In particular, there is demand for college student workers looking for a job between semesters to supplement their income or to help pay for school. Holiday hiring is competitive, though. Retailers seek students who meet their qualifications, enjoy working with the public and demonstrate enthusiasm for the industry as being part of the holiday scene.
If you are a student hunting for a holiday job this season, here’s a handful of tips from leaders in the industry:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Remember, holiday hiring goes beyond storefront retail. Explore positions in shipping, hotels, restaurants, conference centers, manufacturing companies, gourmet food companies and distribution centers. Consider that discounts at a store or company can more than compensate for low wages. Prepare for your interviews with a tailored resume and express your willingness to be flexible with store locations and work assignments. Start searching as soon as possible. Of the seasonal hiring, 75 percent will be done by the end of November. Target your search to companies likely to hire. Consider specific places where your interest and knowledge for the business would be most attractive to employers.
Be the first to comment on this story