What to know about applying for seasonal work

Department stores, coffee shops, specialty stores like toy stores, and distribution and fulfillment centers are all hiring temporary workers now

Opportunities abound for those looking to make some extra money over winter break.

“Retailers hire hundreds of thousands of people for seasonal jobs. If you can give an employer between four and eight weeks you can find a job this holiday season,” said Ellen Davis, president of the National Retail Federation Foundation and senior vice president of strategic initiatives at the National Retail Federation.

Department stores, coffee shops, specialty stores like toy stores, and distribution and fulfillment centers are all hiring temporary workers now, Davis said.

Restaurants are often looking for workers on a more permanent basis, but they do have some openings for temporary workers, Davis said.

Apply as early as possible, Davis said. Start with companies where you have already worked or places where you like to shop, she said.

If you worked at a business previously coming back to a seasonal job can be almost instantaneous.

“You’ve already been set up in the system. Paperwork has been filed out. You’ve been tested, trained and trusted,” Davis said.

Many companies are making the hiring process less complicated to reduce barriers to employment, Davis said. For example, Home Depot now uses text-to-apply in its hiring process.

“You may be interviewed by a store manager or you may not even go for an in-person interview,” she said. “Have the necessary documentation ready such as Social Security number, driver’s license and emergency contact information.”

Be ready to share why you make a strong candidate.

“You need to be able to talk about previous work experience and why you are right for the job,” Davis said.

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