The holiday period is not generally perceived to be a hot time in the hiring market. Many companies are closing out the year, and offices are typically operating at less than full capacity with many employees taking vacation time. However, we have found that the hiring market in the Upstate is still active during this time, with seasonal hiring that could potentially turn into full-time jobs, as well as some companies who are seeking to fill full-time positions.
As you might expect, the Upstate typically sees an uptick in temporary hiring during the holiday season. This is usually attributed to holiday retail hiring that ends in January, but it’s important to remember that other industries also hire at the holidays. Hospitality is a very busy business for temporary workers during this time of year. In the first part of December, our team staffed three large events in the area, including 50 daily shifts for servers, bartenders, cashiers and concession work.
Additionally, vacation time in offices creates a need for temporary administrative work or receptionist support. Business still has to get done at most offices during the holidays, so temporary workers can help fill the void left by those taking vacation.
In both industries, there is an opportunity for full-time work if a job is done well. Just this year, one of our clients hired three of the temporary workers who worked an event for them during the holiday season.
Job seekers should keep a few things in mind when hoping to be hired from temporary to full-time. Workers have a greater chance of success when they display flexibility and a good attitude during the fast-paced holiday work season. If job seekers come ready to work and are able to adjust for any changes during the event, employers will definitely take note.
It’s also important to be prepared to work unconventional hours in the hospitality industry, and pay close attention to dress code requirements.
Another good thing to keep in mind about temporary hiring in these specific industries is that it occurs year-round. Event and hospitality work is not limited to the holidays, as corporate events, concerts, conventions and other large events are held throughout the year. Administrative support for employees on vacation is also needed on a year-round basis, especially during summer months when vacations are more frequent.
Contrary to popular belief, full-time recruiting does not take a break during the holiday season – many companies are still seeking to fill positions during this time. We are currently working with many companies to recruit full-time employees and we encourage job seekers not to push their own search off until the new year.
Getting a head start on research and applications could set you ahead of your peers. If you have specific companies you are hoping to connect with, now is a good time to get a greater understanding of their business and culture. We recommend that job seekers study websites and recent news articles to learn about a company’s mission, values, history and accomplishments. This knowledge will be helpful once you get your foot in the door.
If you are continuing or beginning a job search in 2015, there is no time like the present to get your important information together so that you can begin reaching out as soon as you are ready. Opportunities can often come up quickly, so it is best to prepare your resume and references ahead of time.
Make sure to proofread your resume carefully, and in addition to your job history, include unique skills and notable accomplishments. When preparing your references, make sure to include three professional contacts who are willing to provide a reference for you. When attending an interview, remember to bring at least three clean copies of your resume and references with you.
As the holiday hiring season draws to a close, we recommend that job seekers think carefully about preparing for their next step. In 2015, we will continue to place both temporary and full-time employees, but all potential placements will require job seekers who are prepared to work hard, learn new skills and present a good attitude when faced with a new opportunity.
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Workers have a greater chance of success when they display flexibility and a good attitude during the fast-paced holiday work season. If job seekers come ready to work and are able to adjust for any changes during the event, employers will definitely take note.
