Seasonal Employees: Expert Tips for Hiring the Best

When business ramps up, companies often beef up their workforces with seasonal employees. Though seasonal workers are only with your company for a short time, they still require the same caliber of recruiting as permanent employees. That entails crafting clear job descriptions, posting compelling ads, sorting through resumes, and screening and interviewing candidates.

“It’s challenging,” says ALTRES Personnel Manager Lisa Kodama of recruiting seasonal workers.

“With Hawaii’s unemployment being so low, employers need to adjust their recruitment methods.” Kodama, who specializes in temporary placements, has over 20 years of staffing experience and is well aware of the obstacles the state’s tight labor market is creating for employers.

So, how can your company snag the best seasonal workers this year?

Be flexible when recruiting

Sometimes employers are too hard-set on finding a candidate who checks every box on their list of requirements. The key to finding great temporary workers, according to Kodama, is to be flexible.

“You can’t be too picky or stall on decision making,” she says. “Otherwise you’ll lose candidates.”

Expert tip: Hire for attitude as much as aptitude. If skills and experience levels are limited, look for individuals who present well and show strong initiative. Most seasonal work is about dependability, availability, and commitment, not elaborate or highly technical skillsets.

Offer a completion bonus

The last thing you want is a no-show during peak business hours. Offering a bonus to an employee who successfully completes their seasonal assignment is not only an attractive perk, but it minimizes staff turnover.

“It helps keep those short-term employees for the seasonal period you need them. A bonus can be beneficial for companies, especially those who have a lengthy training process,” says Kodama.

Expert tip: Think about offering a bonus after an employee works a specified amount of hours. For example, you can pay out a $50 reward to an employee who successfully completes at least 80 hours of work.

Look for long-term potential

Seasonal positions are a good way to audition candidates for permanent roles on your team. While you want to hire individuals who can fill short-term workforce needs, it’s worthwhile to look for those who also show long-term promise. Look for employees who are not only a good match for the position, but for the company as a whole.