STRONGSVILLE–The job market may be tough, but there’s good news: hundreds of seasonal jobs are coming to the area.
At the Southpark Mall, seasonal and long-term jobs are growing. The shopping center plans to open 11 stores by Black Friday of this year, said Andy Selesnik, marketing director for the mall.
“With the pool of new stores we have opening, plus the seasonal associates that are needed, it looks like there are a lot of jobs to be had and right now the retailers are the ones combating,” Selesnik said. “Right now, you may have retailers looking for you.”
One of the mall’s latest stores, Learning Express, plans to hire extra employees to meet the demand.
“I tell you, the fourth quarter is when a toy store makes its money,” said Mark Caston, a co-owner of the store. “Naturally, we have to hire more help to get us through the fourth quarter. Throughout the year, we have a staff of about six, but we beef it up to maybe 12 to 15.”
Some surveys show that up to 56 percent of hiring managers plan to add seasonal staff this year–that’s a 8 percent jump from a few years ago.
And if you want to land one of these jobs, there’s a few secrets to beat the competition.
Selesnik said to look for jobs on store websites and for new store openings near you. You should also apply in person and come dressed as if you’re ready to work.
“The best thing you can do is avoid coming out on Saturday and Sundays, when managers are really busy, because that’s when their peek traffic is here,” he said. “Come during the day, and come dressed ready to work at the store you want to apply at.”
He also said it’s important to apply early. Many retailers will hire their seasonal staff by mid-October.
If retail doesn’t suit you, consider holiday work at delivery services and catering companies.
Selesnik said many people are eager to get extra cash during the holidays, but tend to overlook the demands of the job.
“If you’re looking for a holiday job, you need to be available Black Friday, you need to be available the week of Christmas and Christmas Eve because you are working in a retail environment,” he said. “And if you are available, you can bring in some extra, some good cash for the holidays.”