Holiday Hiring

With the holidays just around the corner, retailers and other companies are looking for more seasonal workers this year. Unfortunately, high unemployment makes the market more competitive. Kelli Grant, Senior Consumer Reporter for SmartMonday.com offers some tips on how to improve your odds of getting hired.

First and foremost, be flexible. Most companies use seasonal workers to fill in the gaps in their full-time workers schedules. You have a better shot at getting hired if you're willing to work odd hours, overnight shifts or on the holidays themselves.

Don't hesitate to look for opens beyond the mall. The holidays are also a busy time for shipping companies, restaurants and caterers, and even convention operators. Consider which businesses are likely to be busy and ask them if they'll be hiring extra help.

If you do get yourself a holiday job, think about it as full time. Companies often use the holidays as a trial period for workers they're considering hiring full time. If you're looking for a permanent position, it's another reason to talk up your experience in the interview, and then work hard to impress your boss.

Also, apply for open positions in person. Retailers' sites offer online applications for seasonal work, but showing up makes more of an impression. Walk in prepared to interview because managers may opt for an on-the-spot review if you present yourself like a good candidate.

And finally check in with staffing companies. Staffing companies and temp agencies can be great middlemen in the seasonal job hunt. Add them to your job hunt resources, along with hourly-job site SnagAJob.com.

For more tips on how to get a holiday job and other consumer advice, visit SmartMoney.com.
by Kelli Grant and Jenn Eaker