Want to make sure you land that temporary Christmas job? We’ve put together ten top tips to help you search, find and apply for those seasonal vacancies. Just follow this advice, and you’ll be dashing through the snow to Christmas job success!
1) Start Applying Early
Most of us start Christmas shopping early and so employers typically begin advertising Christmas vacancies from September onwards. The process of applying for jobs, recruiters sifting through applications, and organizing interviews can take a long time, so it’s vital to start looking for Christmas job opportunities as soon as possible.
2) Know Where to Look
Think about the companies that will face the largest increase in demand during the festive period. Although the retail industry is the most obvious place to start your search, hospitality, catering and delivery companies also face busier times. Think about what industry you’d be most keen to work in and focus your Christmas job search around that.
3) Don’t Forget Smaller Businesses
Although it’s usually larger businesses that face the biggest increase in sales, small to medium sized companies also find themselves looking to expand their workforce throughout the winter period, to take full advantage of the rise in consumer spend. Take your time when searching for small and local businesses; you’re more likely to be able to apply directly.
4) Connections and Contacts
Think about your previous employment and any contacts you have that could aid with your job search. Did one of your colleagues move on to start their own business? Maybe an ex-colleague knows of a temporary Christmas role at their company? Even if you worked in a retail store years ago, and all your contacts from there have moved on, the current employer will be keen to hear from any past employees. Plus, you’ll already understand the company’s procedures and have an advantage over other applicants.
5) Tailor Your Resume
Consider the skills needed to cope with the extra demand when working during this busy trading period. Patience, time management, the ability to problem solve, and many more are all relevant to working in the fast-paced industry you’re applying for. Dont’ panic if you haven’t learnt or developed these skills in your previous employment, think about where you may have exercised them in your home life. Have you ever had to organize a family party for all 50 members with completely different opinions on theme and music? We have more tips on how to tailor your resume right here!
6) Do Your Research
One of the most common interview questions is ‘what do you know about this company?’ Before your interview always prepare a brief history of its start-up, how the company makes its money, its main competitors and any current advertising campaigns. Read more advice here on how to prepare for interviews.
7) Show Commitment
Every employer wants to see genuine excitement from a candidate about the role they’re offering. Show that you’re keen to take on this role and explain how you believe your skills, experience and abilities will help the company progress.
8) Be Flexible
Only if you are though! Throughout the Christmas period, many businesses extend their trading hours; if you’re happy to work any overtime, until late at night or before the birds start singing, let them know as this will make you look much more attractive as an applicant as opposed to someone who can only work one day a week.
9) Be on the Ball
As you’ll only be in this temporary role for a short amount of time over the Christmas season, you’ll have a lot to learn very quickly. Employers won’t expect you to pick up everything straight away, but do your best to understand how the company operates and always ask questions if you are unsure. It’s better to ask 20 questions than make a mistake.
10) Stay Proactive and Professional
Whether you just wanted the temporary work for some extra cash or were looking to stay on after the season, make sure you put your best effort into every task right until the end of your employment contract. Many employers are open to keeping on seasonal staff as it means they don’t need to spend more time and money recruiting and re-training other new employees. Even if you aren’t looking for a more permanent role, it’s always good to make good connections to use for future references.
