What’s even worse than shopping for scented candles for Mom and nose hair clippers for Dad? Spinning your snow tires trying to find a seasonal job, only to get the door slammed in your face.
Before you settle in for your long, jobless winter’s nap, take another look at how you’re shopping for a seasonal job. Whether you’re naughty, nice, a student or a stay-at-home mom, there’s a holiday job for you out there.
Holiday benefits of a seasonal job
Almost everyone can use a little extra cash around the holidays. Between shopping for gifts and throwing festive parties, the bank account balance can get a little low. A seasonal job can perk it right back up with a little extra cash from a pretty little combo of a paycheck and a sweet employee discount. You can use the extra cash to spring for the cookies and milk (translation: new watch).
But it doesn’t end there, my friend, oh no. You can take the polar plunge into a new job field, meet new people and get your curly elf shoe in the door for a full-time job. The flexible schedule makes it perfect for those looking for a second job, teachers on winter break or students home for the holidays.
When to look for seasonal jobs
Although there are always a good number of seasonal jobs up for grabs, don't wait until December to start looking for one or you may get stuck shoveling driveways for spare change. The holiday season starts after Halloween and goes through New Year's, so be on the lookout by early September for seasonal job ads.
These positions are popular for a reason, so make sure you get a head start. If you have an employer in mind, it doesn't hurt to start applying online now so you can get a head start on the competition.
Where to apply for seasonal jobs
Two industries you can count on to hire extra workers during the holiday season are retailers and restaurants. Party suppliers and holiday decoration centrals, like Party City and Halloween City, and clothing and toy stores, like Old Navy and Toys "R" Us, all hire seasonal workers. You'll often enjoy store discounts at places like these--and you can't help but get into the holiday spirit when surrounded by wrapping paper and twinkling lights.
With employers hosting holiday parties and visiting friends out for nights on the town, restaurants see booming business during the holiday season. You're likely to find plenty of hours available for work and enjoy larger tips, as people feel more generous around that time of year.
You'll also find seasonal jobs at hotels and winter attractions (like ski resorts and ice skating rinks). And don't forget the mall--Santa could probably use a few extra helpers in his winter wonderland this year.
Browse our seasonal job listings now!
About Amy White