The Journal-News spoke with Melissa O’Brien, business service manager for OhioMeansJobs-Butler County, to get a grasp on the best way for job seekers to not only score a seasonal job, but also the efforts necessary to make a good enough impression to be considered for a permanent assignment, should the opportunity arise.
Here’s what she had to say:
Q: There seems to be quite a spike in hiring going on when it comes to seasonal jobs. How much of a resumé booster are these positions, even if they don’t translate into full-time work thereafter?
A: "Working a seasonal job will show an employer that you are committed and that you have a good work ethic. You also have the ability to learn new skills that may be transferable to another career opportunity."'
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Q: Many people see this time of year as the main time for seasonal hiring? To what extent can job seekers find hiring opportunities during other months?
A: "Currently, it's a job-seekers market. Companies are hiring more part time and full time employees this time of year more so than in the past few years. Here at OhioMeansJobs-Butler County, we typically tend to see a decrease in job postings and companies holding hiring events. In the month of October there was a 9 percent increase in job postings and a 20 percent increase in hiring events. Employers are willing to train the right candidate, so if you are willing to learn a new skill or trade don't be afraid to apply."
Q: What character traits or job skills are best to stress when it comes to someone seeking seasonal employment?
A: "Be on time, be a go-getter, say yes, work the extra hours, be helpful, ask questions, don't complain and always remember to smile."
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Q: What advice would you have for someone who is looking to turn a seasonal position into full-time employment?
A: "Don't approach your seasonal position as if it's only a temporary job. From the start, find out what your responsibilities are and what's expected of you. The best way to get an employer to start thinking about bringing you on permanently is to stand out in the position you have and not only meet the minimum requirements but exceed them as well. Showing a commitment to the position and excelling at your job is the quickest way to gain notice and consideration for a permanent, full-time position. Say "yes" to projects, never say "no" to them, and accept all the little things that no one wants to do. Go the extra mile.
Q: What does that do for an employee’s chances of securing a year-round position?
A: "To get noticed and a full-time job offer, you need to do things such as staying late, coming in early or taking on tough projects. You make yourself a valuable asset to the company. Employers look for those employees that they can depend on (and) when they find them, they want to keep them. If you're truly interested in landing a permanent position with your seasonal employer, making yourself indispensable is one of the better strategies."
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