BBB: Want A Holiday Job? Start Looking Now

With the holidays several months off, you may be thinking it's a little early to start looking for seasonal jobs at stores. But many retailers have already begun taking applications.

The Better Business Bureau has four tips to help you land a job working at your favorite store - or any business that gears up for business during the holidays. As with any position, you need to bone up on the company that you want to work for, and be prepared to say when you're available or why you want the job even if you're just stopping by to pick up an application.

Here is today's release, with the promised four tips:

St. Louis, Mo., Sept. 27, 2012 – Retailers expect to boost holiday hiring this year as the economy recovers. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) advises job seekers to apply early and research potential employers for the best chance at landing a job that fits your needs.

Target Corp. has said it plans to hire between 80,000 and 90,000 seasonal workers at its stores and distribution centers. Kohl’s says it will hire 52,000 holiday workers.

“Major retailers’ hiring plans are welcome news for job seekers,” said Michelle L.
Corey, BBB president and CEO. “While holiday jobs are usually temporary, this is
great news for struggling families and others who have had problems finding
work.”

The BBB offers the following advice for job hunters this holiday season:

1. Start your job search earlier rather than later. Retail, shipping, restaurants and catering companies are common sources of seasonal
   employment. This is the time for job hunters to determine which job suits them best, identify companies they’d like to work for and then begin submitting applications and resumes.
2. Work where you shop. Try to identify seasonal employment opportunities at businesses where you shop. You will already be familiar with the company and its products, and discounts available to employees can mean significant savings when shopping for gifts. Discounts can range from 20-40 percent for seasonal employees.
3. Put your best foot forward. Even if you are just picking up applications at stores in the mall, dress neatly and be prepared for an interview. This includes being familiar with the company’s brand and products. Retail job hunters need to focus on impressing potential employers with their customer service skills because they may be dealing with stressed-out shoppers, long check-out lines and holiday returns.
4. Be flexible. Full-time employees usually have first choice on preferred hours and shifts. As a seasonal employee, you can expect to work long, sometimes inconvenient hours, possibly including Thanksgiving and
   Christmas Eve. If this is a second job in addition to your day job, be upfront
   and clear with your new employer about your available hours.

For a BBB Business Review, check with the BBB at www.bbb.org or by calling 314-645-3300.