Retail training is the game-changer that can turn seasonal positions into a win-win for both employers and employees. ‘Tis the season to be jolly and make some extra money, and seasonal employment is a fantastic way to do just that. In this blog post, we will explore a few common misconceptions surrounding hiring seasonal employees and shed light on how these temporary positions can significantly impact retail stores. So, let’s debunk these myths one by one and discover why creating seasonal positions is a wise move for retail businesses.
Myth #1: Holiday hiring starts right before Thanksgiving
Many people believe that holiday hiring only kicks off around Thanksgiving. However, the reality is that retail hiring starts as early as September and gains momentum by early October. The reason for this early start is simple: seasonal employees need time for proper training and onboarding to ensure they are ready to handle the holiday rush. Retailers understand the importance of being well-prepared to serve holiday shoppers effectively. Therefore, if you’re interested in a holiday job, start your search early to secure your spot.
Myth #2: All seasonal jobs are retail jobs
While retail jobs are the most visible during the holiday season, they are not the only seasonal positions available. Shipping companies, such as FedEx and UPS, experience a surge in demand for temporary workers to handle the influx of online orders. Supply-chain jobs, food manufacturers, and distributors also ramp up hiring during the holidays. Beyond that, catering businesses and HR departments looking for extra help during open enrollment season offer opportunities in various industries. Seasonal employment is not limited to just retail.
Myth #3: Holiday jobs end on Dec. 26
Contrary to popular belief, many holiday jobs extend into the new year. Retailers often retain a significant portion of their seasonal employees through January, mainly due to post-holiday sales and returns. Exceptional seasonal workers may even find themselves with permanent positions, as many employers use these temporary roles as recruitment opportunities. So, if you’re aiming for a long-term career in retail, giving your best during the holiday season could be your stepping stone.
Myth #4: Brick-and-mortar stores aren’t hiring because sales are down
The rise of online sales hasn’t diminished the demand for seasonal retail employees. In fact, major retailers are still actively hiring, both in stores and for online order fulfillment. For instance, Target announced plans to hire 100,000 people during the holidays, reflecting a 40% increase from the previous year. Seasonal retail jobs continue to be a crucial part of the holiday shopping experience.
Myth #5: Seasonal hiring only happens during the holidays
It’s essential to recognize that seasonal hiring isn’t limited to the holiday season. Different industries hire extra hourly workers at various points throughout the year. For example, spring sees an influx of employment opportunities in home improvement, while the hospitality industry hires during the summer vacation season. In the fall, food growers and distributors increase their workforce for the harvest season. So, seasonal jobs are available year-round, depending on the industry.
The Reality of Seasonal Employment in Retail:
Now that we’ve debunked these common myths, it’s time to emphasize the positive impact of seasonal employees on retail stores. Retail training is the key to turning these short-term positions into a win-win situation. Here’s how:
- Efficiency: Proper training equips seasonal employees with the skills they need to hit the ground running. They can quickly adapt to the busy holiday season and provide excellent customer service, making a positive impression on shoppers.
- Flexibility: Well-trained seasonal workers can adapt to different roles within the store, helping to cover various tasks efficiently. This flexibility is invaluable during unpredictable holiday rushes.
- Improved Customer Experience: Seasonal employees who receive proper training are more likely to provide an exceptional customer experience. Happy and satisfied customers are more likely to return to the store, boosting sales and loyalty.
- Recruitment Opportunities: Recognizing the potential in seasonal employees can lead to permanent job offers. A well-trained seasonal worker can seamlessly transition into a full-time role, reducing the time and resources required for recruitment.
How Can Your Business Prepare for Seasonal Hiring?
Seasonal employees are a valuable asset to retail stores, and retail training is the key to maximizing their potential. By debunking the myths surrounding seasonal employment, we can understand the positive impact these workers have on the industry. Creating seasonal positions is not only a smart business move but also an opportunity to provide valuable job experiences and opportunities to individuals looking to join the retail workforce. So, this holiday season, let’s remember that seasonal employees are more than just a temporary addition; they are a vital part of what makes retail stores successful year-round.
Professional Sourcing Solutions is a staffing agency based in Ontario, Canada that specializes in retail staffing. Book a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you with your staffing needs.
