How to Find Seasonal Workers As An Employer, And How to Find Seasonal Jobs As A Worker

December 6, 2024 –

By Ethan Sympson

Seasonal jobs play a crucial role in meeting the fluctuating demand throughout the year. For employers, they offer a flexible solution to assist with staffing challenges, while job seekers can take advantage of these opportunities to gain experience, earn extra income, or explore new industries. In this blog, we’ll explore the key benefits seasonal roles provide for businesses and share practical tips to help job seekers secure the perfect seasonal position.

What Is A Seasonal Job?

A seasonal job is a temporary position that arises during specific times of the year to address heightened demand in certain industries. These roles are often tied to holidays, peak shopping periods, or seasonal activities, such as summer tourism or winter holiday retail. Seasonal jobs can range from part-time to full-time and typically last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the industry and demand.

Industries That Use Seasonal Jobs

Seasonal hiring is common across a wide range of industries where workforce demands fluctuate based on time-sensitive factors such as holidays, weather, and peak business periods. Here are some key industries that rely heavily on seasonal hiring:

Retail

The retail industry experiences its highest demand during the holiday season, typically from November through December. During this period, stores hire additional staff to manage increased customer traffic, restock shelves, and handle sales transactions. Seasonal retail hiring ensures that businesses can maintain smooth operations and high customer satisfaction during these busy times.

Hospitality and Tourism

The hospitality and tourism industry heavily relies on seasonal hiring during peak travel periods, such as summer vacations, winter holidays, and spring breaks. Hotels, resorts, and restaurants often see a sharp increase in guests and diners, creating a need for extra staff to provide excellent service. Tourist destinations, such as national parks and amusement parks, also require seasonal workers to accommodate the influx of visitors.

Agriculture

Agriculture is one of the most prominent industries dependent on seasonal workers. Harvesting crops and planting fields are time-sensitive tasks that require a large, temporary workforce. The timing of this demand depends on the type of crop and the region, but it generally occurs during the spring and fall seasons. Seasonal agricultural workers are critical for ensuring that crops are harvested and distributed promptly, preventing food shortages and market delays.

Logistics and Warehousing

The logistics and warehousing industry experiences a significant surge during the holiday shopping season, fueled by the growing prominence of e-commerce. Fulfillment centers and warehouses require additional workers to pick, pack, and ship a massive volume of orders. Seasonal employees help meet tight deadlines and ensure timely deliveries to customers. Beyond the holidays, other periods, such as back-to-school shopping or promotional sales, can also create spikes in demand.

Construction

The construction industry experiences seasonal hiring peaks depending on weather conditions and project cycles. In regions with harsh winters, construction activity ramps up in spring and summer when weather is more favorable for outdoor work. Seasonal workers are often needed to meet tight project deadlines, particularly for roadwork, infrastructure, and residential or commercial developments. These roles are essential for ensuring projects stay on schedule during the active construction season.

What Are The Benefits Of Seasonal Jobs?

Seasonal jobs are mutually beneficial for both sides, providing each with unique benefits. For employers, they are able to meet demand without hiring additional full time employees they don’t need. While job seekers on the other hand, have the ability to find a part time job quickly and make additional money on the side. Here’s a deeper dive into the key benefits for both parties:

Benefits of Seasonal Jobs For Employers

Seasonal jobs offer several key benefits for employers, allowing them to adapt to fluctuating workforce needs efficiently while maximizing operational success. Here are the primary advantages:

Flexibility to Meet Demand: Employers can scale their workforce up or down to align with busy periods, such as holidays, tourist seasons, or harvest times, without the long-term commitment of hiring permanent staff.
Cost Efficiency: Hiring temporary workers during peak times reduces overhead costs associated with maintaining a larger permanent workforce year-round, including benefits and long-term salaries.
Improved Productivity: Seasonal workers help alleviate the workload on permanent staff, reducing burnout and ensuring that operations run smoothly during busy periods.
Opportunity to Assess Talent: Seasonal jobs serve as a trial period to identify high-performing employees who may be considered for permanent roles, reducing the risk in long-term hiring decisions.
Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: With sufficient staffing, employers can maintain or improve service quality during peak times, ensuring customers have a positive experience and remain loyal.
Adaptability to Market Trends: Seasonal hiring allows businesses to respond quickly to market demands, staying competitive and meeting consumer expectations without significant delays or disruptions.

Benefits of Seasonal Work For Job Seekers

Seasonal jobs also provide benefits for job seekers, making them an attractive option for individuals with varying career goals and needs. Here are the key positives:

Extra Income: Seasonal roles provide a quick and reliable way to earn additional income, whether to save for a specific goal, cover holiday expenses, or supplement a primary income.
Flexible Scheduling: Many seasonal jobs offer flexible hours, making them ideal for students, parents, or individuals looking to balance work with other commitments.
Skill Development: Seasonal positions can help job seekers build new skills or refine existing ones, such as customer service, teamwork, or technical abilities, which can enhance their resume and future job prospects.
Industry Experience: For those exploring a career change or entering the workforce for the first time, seasonal jobs provide a low-risk way to gain experience in a new field or industry.
Networking Opportunities: Seasonal roles allow workers to meet industry professionals and build connections that could lead to long-term job opportunities or career growth.
Pathway to Permanent Roles: Many employers use seasonal positions as a way to identify and retain top talent. Excelling in a seasonal job can lead to an offer for a permanent position.

Tips To Find Seasonal Workers

Recruiting seasonal workers effectively requires strategic planning and targeted efforts. Here are detailed tips to help you attract and retain the right talent, supported by relevant statistics:

Start Recruitment Processes Early

Initiating your hiring process well before peak seasons is crucial. It’s reported that 81% of holiday job seekers begin their search in September. By starting early, you can tap into this proactive candidate pool, ensuring you secure qualified workers ahead of your competitors.

Leverage Multiple Job Platforms

Utilize various job boards and platforms to reach a broad audience. Posting on sites like Indeed, Monster, and industry-specific boards can increase your visibility. For hourly positions, platforms like Snagajob are particularly effective.

Tap into Local Networks

Collaborate with local schools and community organizations to connect with potential candidates. Students and part-time workers often seek seasonal employment, and partnerships with these entities can facilitate access to a ready workforce.

Offer Competitive Compensation

Attractive pay and benefits are essential to draw top talent. In 2023, the retail sector added 564,200 jobs, an 11% increase from 2022, indicating a competitive market for seasonal workers. Offering competitive wages, bonuses, and perks like flexible schedules or employee discounts can make your positions more appealing.

Streamline the Hiring Process

Simplify applications and expedite interviews to attract candidates seeking immediate employment. A lengthy hiring process can deter applicants, especially when they have multiple opportunities. Efficient hiring practices can give you an edge in securing talent.

Advertise the Opportunity Clearly

Be transparent about job expectations, duration, and any benefits. Clear communication helps set accurate expectations, reducing turnover and ensuring candidates are well-informed about the role.

Provide Adequate Training

Invest in training to ensure seasonal staff are prepared and confident in their roles. Proper training enhances productivity and can lead to better customer service, positively impacting your business during peak times.

Emphasize a Positive Work Environment

Foster a supportive and engaging workplace to attract and retain seasonal employees. A positive environment can lead to higher job satisfaction, encouraging seasonal workers to return in future years and recommend your company to others.

Find Seasonal Workers With Help From One or More Staffing Agencies

Staffing companies play a pivotal role in recruitment for employers seeking to fill temporary roles. Here’s how they can assist:

Access to a Ready Pool of Talent: Staffing agencies maintain extensive databases of job seekers, including those specifically interested in seasonal work. This allows employers to tap into a pre-vetted pool of candidates, saving time and ensuring positions are filled promptly.
Efficient Recruitment Processes: From job postings to background checks, staffing companies handle the administrative burden of hiring. They take care of screening resumes, conducting interviews, and verifying references, enabling employers to focus on core operations without being bogged down by recruitment logistics.
Expertise in Matching Skills to Needs:Staffing firms specialize in understanding the unique needs of various industries and matching them with suitable candidates. Whether a company needs warehouse workers for the holiday rush or extra sales associates for a summer tourism boom, staffing agencies can identify individuals with the right skills and experience.
Flexibility and Scalability: The unpredictable nature of seasonal work often requires businesses to scale their workforce up or down on short notice. Staffing agencies provide the flexibility to adjust the number of workers based on demand, ensuring businesses are neither understaffed nor overstaffed.
Reduced Hiring Risks: Hiring seasonal workers directly can be risky, especially if they don’t meet performance expectations. Staffing agencies often offer a trial period or temp-to-hire arrangements, allowing businesses to assess workers’ suitability before committing to longer-term contracts.
Compliance and Legal Expertise: Navigating labor laws and regulations, particularly for temporary roles, can be challenging. Staffing agencies stay up to date on compliance requirements, ensuring businesses adhere to employment laws, tax regulations, and worker classification rules.

Tips for Employers Working With Staffing Agencies

Communicate Clearly: Share detailed information about the roles, including job responsibilities, required skills, and any unique conditions of the work.
Plan Ahead: Start working with a staffing agency well before your peak season to allow ample time for recruitment and onboarding.
Partner Strategically: Choose a staffing agency with expertise in your industry and a strong reputation for delivering reliable candidates.

Tips To Getting A Seasonal Position

Securing a seasonal position can be a strategic way to earn extra income, gain experience, and potentially transition into a permanent role. To enhance your chances of landing the right seasonal job, consider the following detailed tips:

Begin Your Job Search Early

Just as businesses begin recruiting seasonal employees early, job seekers should also start their search well ahead of peak seasons. By planning proactively and aligning with employers’ hiring timelines, you can position yourself as a strong candidate before the competition heats up, securing opportunities as demand begins to rise.

Utilize Multiple Job Search Platforms

Expand your job search by exploring various platforms:

Online Job Boards: Businesses often leverage websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Snagajob frequently to list their seasonal opportunities.
Company Career Pages: Many organizations post seasonal roles on their official websites.
Social Media Platforms: Businesses may leverage social media to spread the word about seasonal positions they are urgently hiring for.
Staffing Agencies: Agencies often have access to a wide array of seasonal positions and can assist in matching you with suitable roles. Reach out to Starboard to see if we have the right seasonal position for you.

Network Within Your Community

Leverage personal and professional networks to uncover seasonal job openings. Engaging with local community centers, attending job fairs, and connecting with former colleagues can lead to referrals and insider information about available positions. Networking remains a powerful tool in job searching, often leading to opportunities not advertised publicly.

Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Customize your application materials to highlight relevant skills and experiences pertinent to the seasonal role you’re pursuing. Employers value candidates who demonstrate a clear understanding of the job requirements and can showcase applicable competencies. A targeted and well-written resume and cover letter can significantly enhance your application’s effectiveness.

Be Flexible with Your Schedule

Seasonal positions often demand flexibility, including working evenings, weekends, and holidays. Demonstrating a willingness to accommodate varying shifts can make you a more attractive candidate, as employers seek individuals who can adapt to the dynamic needs of peak seasons.

Prepare for a Fast Interview Process

Employers hiring for seasonal roles may expedite the interview process to fill positions swiftly. Be ready for immediate interviews and prompt start dates. Presenting yourself as prepared and responsive can leave a positive impression on potential employers.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Emphasize skills such as customer service, teamwork, and adaptability, which are valuable across various seasonal roles. Showcasing these abilities can demonstrate your readiness to contribute effectively, even if you lack direct experience in a particular industry.

Consider the Potential for Permanent Employment

Some seasonal positions can lead to permanent roles. Expressing interest in long-term employment and performing well during your seasonal tenure can position you for future opportunities within the company.

Stay Organized and Follow Up

Keep track of the positions you’ve applied for and follow up with employers when appropriate. Demonstrating initiative and continued interest can set you apart from other candidates.

Find Seasonal Work Through A Staffing Agency

Staffing companies serve as a valuable resource in the hunt for seasonal jobs, connecting job seekers with employers in need of temporary staff. Here’s how they can help:

Access to a Wide Range of Opportunities: Staffing agencies work with a variety of employers across industries, from retail and hospitality to logistics and customer service. This gives job seekers access to numerous seasonal opportunities, often ones they might not find through traditional job boards.
Streamlined Application Process: Applying for seasonal jobs independently can involve juggling multiple applications and interviews. Staffing companies simplify this process by acting as a one-stop-shop for seasonal roles. With a single application, job seekers can be considered for several positions that match their skills and availability.
Personalized Job Matching: Staffing firms take the time to understand a candidate’s strengths, preferences, and goals. Whether you’re looking for a flexible schedule, a specific type of work environment, or an opportunity to learn new skills, they can help match you with roles tailored to your needs.
Faster Placement: Because staffing companies are directly connected to employers with immediate hiring needs, they can often help job seekers secure roles more quickly than traditional methods. This is especially advantageous for individuals who want to start earning income as soon as possible.
Skill-Building and Training Opportunities: Some staffing agencies offer training programs or resources to help candidates enhance their skills and become more competitive in the job market. These opportunities can be particularly useful for seasonal roles that require specific expertise, such as inventory management or customer service.
Flexibility and Variety: Seasonal work through a staffing company can provide flexibility, allowing job seekers to choose roles that fit their schedules. Additionally, it offers the chance to explore different industries and work environments, broadening one’s professional experience.
Support and Guidance: From preparing for interviews to navigating the onboarding process, staffing companies often provide support at every step. They can offer advice on how to make a strong impression and tips for succeeding in the workplace.

Tips for Job Seekers Working With Staffing Agencies

Be Honest About Your Availability: Seasonal jobs often come with specific scheduling demands, so be clear about your availability upfront.
Update Your Resume: Highlight any relevant skills or past seasonal work experience to stand out to employers.
Stay Open-Minded: Be willing to explore different types of roles or industries—you might discover a new interest or career path.
Stay in Touch: Keep communication open with your staffing agency, especially if you’re looking for additional opportunities after your seasonal role ends.

Get Seasonal Staffing Support From Starboard

Our main focus is supporting both employers and job seekers in finding the right seasonal staffing solutions. We have a large network in Kansas City that allows us to place the right individuals in the right positions as soon as the next day. Reach out to us today to see how we can help!

Frequently Asked Questions – Seasonal Staffing

What Does It Mean To Be A Seasonal Employee?

A seasonal employee is someone hired temporarily to meet a company’s increased workforce needs during specific times of the year, such as holidays, summer, or harvest seasons. These roles typically last for a few weeks or months and end when the peak period concludes.

What’s The Difference Between Seasonal & Part Time?

While both involve working less than full-time hours, seasonal roles are tied to a specific time period or event, such as the holiday rush. Part-time roles, on the other hand, are ongoing and not limited to a particular season, offering consistent hours year-round.

Why Do Companies Hire Seasonal Staff?

Companies hire seasonal staff to handle increased demand, such as during holidays or busy tourist seasons. This allows businesses to scale their workforce efficiently without committing to long-term employment costs.

Should I Consider A Seasonal Role?

Yes! A seasonal role can be a great way to earn extra income, gain valuable experience, and explore a new industry. It may also lead to permanent employment opportunities if you excel in your role. If you think a seasonal role is right for you, reach out to us today.