7 Ways to Hire Seasonal Staff for your Business

Published on: 08 March 2019 Last Updated on: 18 May 2020
Seasonal Staff

Think about it: wouldn’t it be awesome if you were able to hire seasonal staff without all the hassle involved in posting jobs endlessly, calling through endless lists, and vetting hundreds of candidates?

Of course, the answer is yes, it would be. However, in order to achieve that goal, you will need to master the art of hiring seasonal staff.

Knowing the correct way of going about making seasonal hires will save you a lot of effort, time, and money while ensuring that you make the most ideal hires. The following article will discuss the various ways you can go about recruiting seasonal hires.

Here are 7 Ways to Hire Seasonal Staff for your Business:

1. Hire From Your Customer Base:

Your customers are people who have already given you some level of respect, trust, and authority enough to form a business relationship with you. Doesn’t it then make sense hiring people who already know, trust, and probably love you?

This option is usually overlooked, or most employers have just never thought about it, but your customer base is one of the best sources of seasonal staff. This is because they already have an above-average understanding of your products and brand which makes them more likely to be excited talking about them.

Moreover, your customer base is one of the easiest audiences to reach. This is due to the fact that you probably have them on an email list where you easily communicate with them. One of the most effective ways to entice your customers to be your workers is by telling them about your desire to hire them than telling them about the employee discounts they will enjoy.

2. Start Early:

Starting before your competitors will greatly enhance your chances of making good hires. As such, you should have a clearly outlined strategy for your seasonal need and begin posting positions as early as four months before the time you will need them.

The benefit of doing this is that it will allow you to build an extensive pipeline of candidates while also ensuring that you make contact with the qualified prospects before other companies seeking the same workers.

Any employer or HR department that believes that they do not have to start the recruitment process early will, unfortunately, find themselves having to scramble to hire. This will inevitably affect the quality of their hires.

3. Be Clear in Your Job Descriptions:

Your job advertisement needs to clearly state that you are looking for seasonal staff. Thus, ensure that you explicitly mention the same in your job title.

Adhere to the following when crafting your job description:

Make your requirements clear.

A lot of seasonal jobs do not necessitate work experience. However, you need to highlight the qualifications or certifications that you are looking for.

Also, be sure to describe any physical requirements there might be. For instance, if the position will require some degree of strength of endurance, be sure to mention that so that only qualified people can apply.

Mention the work schedule

Applicants usually need to know the number of hours and days they will be working and whether the schedule is flexible. Being clear about the work schedule will help you avoid conflicts once the hire has been made.

Clearly explain your compensation system.

Any job advertisement that is vague about its compensation structure is likely to turn away its applicants. Thus, ensure that you clarify how much they will be getting paid and how they will be getting paid i.e. hourly or salaried.

4. Ask for Referrals From Your Employees:

The loyal and hardworking members of your staff are likely to know other such people. As such, they are likely to bring those people on board if they get the opportunity to do so. Then, why not give them that opportunity?

This means that you should think about starting an employee referral program that grants a bonus at the end of the season to any employee that brings another good employee to the organization.

If you are not in a position to, then simply ask your current employees to recommend what they think would be successful additions to the company when it needs seasonal staff.

5. Think About Retirees:

If your business’s needs are not physically demanding, then you should consider hiring retirees for your seasonal work. Retirees are especially attractive since they do not only have extensive work experience, but they are also usually open to a flexible work arrangement.

Moreover, unlike college students who are likely to move on after they graduate, retirees are more than likely going to return for the next season.

6. Consider Utilizing a Recruitment Agency:

recruitment agency in Vietnam will save you time and effort by sourcing and shortlisting prospects for your open positions.

This is especially relevant if you are looking for seasonal staff as they will be able to get those employees fast. This is because a recruiting firm usually has a network of candidates with whom they have already established relationships. Agrilabour.com.au is one such agency that allows agricultural firms to find temporary employees fast.

Another benefit of using an agency is that it fills your pipeline with qualified candidates to ensure that you only make the best hires.

This is enabled by the fact that the agency usually undertakes the initial phases of the hiring process such as resume screening and the first interview. This makes your hiring process to be more efficient.

7. Visit Schools:

Where else are you likely to find people with lots of energy and time but lacking in money. That’s right; college. A lot of college students are usually looking to fill their long and frequent breaks with some seasonal work so they can earn some money.

Moreover, there is no other place you are likely to get young, bubbling, and intelligent people than college. See whether you can visit some colleges and advertise your positions.

Looking for a job is usually harder than looking for talent to fill your positions. However, the quality of talent is what usually determines the success of an organization. Getting good seasonal staff is, therefore, a lot harder since you are more than likely going to compromise on the quality of your hires. You should, therefore, consider utilizing the above tips to ensure you get the best quality seasonal staff regularly.

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how to become a phlebotomist

The What, Why, & How To Of Being A Phlebotomist In 2024?

Phlebotomists, also known as phlebotomy technicians, use venous or skin punctures to draw blood. These specialists are essential to the healthcare industry, especially when it comes to the diagnosis and treatment of illnesses. Phlebotomy services can be used by patients to receive transfusions, donate blood or plasma, or test for medical conditions. In addition, phlebotomy technicians have strict guidelines to follow when labeling biological samples, handling needles and other tools, and entering patient data into databases. These workers must execute their duties carefully and safely since they deal with biological samples. Engaging with patients and making a difference in their care is a rewarding experience for many phlebotomists. Phlebotomists who are kind can ease patients' anxieties about having their blood drawn, as many patients find the procedure uncomfortable. These technicians can also discuss the significance of blood collection Phlebotomist employment prospects appear to be favorable. According to BLS projections, employment in this field will increase by 22% between 2020 and 2030, while jobs in healthcare will grow by 16% and all occupations by 8% during the same period. Here is everything you need to know about how to become a phlebotomist. How to Become a Phlebotomist? Becoming a phlebotomist does require specialized training. Fast-paced work environments and frequent client interaction necessitate that professionals in the field possess the following qualities:  Although phlebotomists are frequently employed in laboratory environments, some have more flexibility in their work environment when they work for ambulatory services. They might still have to put in overtime or on the weekends, for example, if they work in a lab. Learn more about how to become a phlebotomist in this article, along with the procedures for obtaining national certification and education. Requirements on How to Become a Phlebotomist Before getting into the details of how to become a phlebotomist let us clear up the basics. Candidates must earn a GED or complete their high school education. It could be beneficial to take science and anatomy classes in high school. After that, people can enroll in phlebotomy programs, which typically leads to certification after 4–8 months of training. Community colleges, technical schools, and trade schools all offer these kinds of programs.  To practice, phlebotomy graduates in California, Louisiana, Nevada, and Washington must obtain certification. To improve their chances of finding work, professionals in other states should still think about obtaining a postsecondary credential. Phlebotomists have access to a range of certifications, such as:  Certified Phlebotomy Technician I: Trains medical personnel to take blood samples via venous and skin punctures.  Certified Phlebotomy Technician II: Trains medical personnel to perform venous, arterial, and skin punctures to collect blood.  Limited Phlebotomy Technician: Someone who trains medical professionals to take blood via skin punctures.  Certification and Licensure Acquiring certification to become a phlebotomist requires a written and practical exam. The test will include about 300 questions. The clinical component will include a demonstration of sample labeling, skin, and venous blood draws, and sanitization procedures. Phlebotomists can then acquire the certification from different organizations, such as: American Society for Clinical Pathology  National Center for Competency Testing   American Certification Agency for Healthcare Professionals  American Medical Technologists  National Healthcareer Association  National Phlebotomy Association  American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians  To stay up to date in their field, phlebotomists—especially those who need to renew their certification—must complete continuing education. The requirements for ongoing phlebotomist training vary by state, but most professionals must earn roughly six credits of continuing education annually. To fulfill these requirements, phlebotomists might be able to enroll in classes at community colleges or vocational schools or attend conferences.  Training to Become a Phlebotomist Learning how to become a phlebotomist involves taking crucial courses and earning certification. Both laboratory experience and classroom instruction are prerequisites for certification programs. Topics including anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology, are typically covered in courses. Students may need to take prerequisite coursework if they are unable to demonstrate algebraic or mathematical proficiency at the high school level.  While it's uncommon, some people with a high school or GED opt for on-the-job training rather than phlebotomy school. Phlebotomists are required by state regulations to follow certain guidelines regarding certification and ongoing education, regardless of their educational background.  What Does a Phlebotomist Do? Before you want to know about how to become a phlebotomist, here is what you should know about what a phlebotomist does. A phlebotomist, another name for a phlebotomy technician, is a medical professional qualified to take blood samples from people. They might also help with blood drives and transfusions, depending on where they work. Apart from extracting blood from patients, they also process blood samples for analysis, gather patient data, and assist patients who might feel uneasy with needles.  The main responsibility of a phlebotomist is to take blood samples from patients as directed by a physician or other healthcare provider. On the other hand, your practice might also involve labeling vials, checking vital signs, chatting with patients about the blood draw procedure, and maintaining a sterile and clean work area. During your shift, you might also be required to carry out the following tasks, depending on where you work: Gather data and make updates to patient medical records.  Fill out the paperwork and mark the vials.  Make patients more at ease while having their blood drawn.  Place a supply order  Arrange the necessary vials, needles, and other supplies in the work area.  Joining a professional organization can benefit your career in the long run, even though most charge a membership fee. These organizations give you a route to certification, facilitate networking, and assist you in keeping up with new methods or regulations.  National Phlebotomy Association The National Phlebotomy Association (NPA) provides workshops, training courses, and professional certifications, such as a credential for phlebotomy instructors, to facilitate continuing education. For full- and part-time jobs in phlebotomy and other allied health fields, the organization maintains a job board.  American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc. The American Society of Phlebotomy Technicians, Inc. (ASPT) certifies both graduates of recognized programs and employed phlebotomy technicians. Members of NHA, ASCP, and AMT are eligible to receive benefits from the organization. Members have access to nonprofit events, cross-training workshops, and opportunities for ongoing education.  Additionally, ASPT offers an EKG fundamentals program and a phlebotomy refresher course. There is a $65 exam fee and a $35 membership fee for phlebotomy technicians.  National Healthcare Association (NHA) NHA offers phlebotomy technicians immersive learning opportunities in addition to professional certification. Practice drills, interactive games, and quizzes are among the available resources intended for educators and students.  For allied health professionals, NHA offers a job board, resume review services, and career planning guidance.  By showcasing and improving your skills, obtaining a professional certification can increase your marketability even if your state or employer does not require it. Examine the prerequisites for the following three popular certifications.  Technician in Phlebotomy (PBT) There are various ways to become certified in PBT offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP). Candidates must possess one year of full-time clinical experience or have finished an authorized phlebotomy program within the previous five years. Programs must fulfill minimum instruction requirements, be approved by the California Department of Public Health, or accredited by NAACLS.  In addition to paying a $145 application fee, candidates must pass an 80-question exam.  Certified Technician in Phlebotomy (CPT) Candidates must successfully finish a phlebotomy training program or one to two years of supervised phlebotomy technician experience to be eligible for the National Healthcareer Association's CPT distinction. Blood collection, patient preparation, and safety and compliance are all covered in the two-hour certification exam. The exam is $125, and you can buy a study guide or practice test to get ready.  Every two years, CPTs need to renew their certification by paying $179 and completing continuing education requirements.  Colleges That Offer Phlebotomy as a Course Since phlebotomy students must acquire practical skills in blood withdrawal and collection, phlebotomy programs are typically offered on campus at educational institutions. The programs that prospective phlebotomists can find in the United States are listed below. However, keep in mind that this is just a small selection of all the programs that are offered all over the country. When you want to know how to become a phlebotomist, the college you must go to is an equally important aspect to consider.  Abrams College The didactic component of Abrams College's phlebotomy program is offered over two weeks, on Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM in Modesto, California. This equates to 48 hours of classroom instruction. To proceed to the externship experience, students must pass all tests and complete all skill station requirements.  The 40-hour externship takes place in a hospital or clinical laboratory. Students who complete the program receive a certificate and should be qualified to apply for both state and national licensure.  Cuyahoga Community College Cleveland, Ohio's Cuyahoga Community College provides a short-term certificate program in laboratory phlebotomy. Students are trained in blood collection, specific blood collection techniques, medical terminology, ethics, and other related areas through a skills-based didactic curriculum. Students also need to finish an eight-week clinical externship at a hospital or clinic.  Graduates of this NAACLS-accredited program have completed it with a 100% job placement rate and a cumulative 95% pass rate on certification exams over the last three years. Furthermore, transfer programs are offered to students who wish to graduate with a bachelor's degree from an institution in partnership.  Iowa Western Community College The phlebotomy program at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs consists of 120 hours of clinical experience and 80 hours of classroom instruction. The students receive their clinical placement assignments during the sixth week of the program. After finishing, they ought to be qualified to take the American Society for Clinical Pathology national certification exam. Students must adhere to a rigorous professional dress code and present documentation of their vaccinations upon admission to the program.  Santa Fe College Students can finish the two-semester phlebotomy certificate program at Santa Fe College in Gainesville, Florida. In the first semester, students attend 60 hours of classroom instruction, and in the second semester, they complete 105 hours of clinical phlebotomy rotations.  Students must pass a background investigation and have all necessary vaccinations to be admitted. This course also includes instruction on bloodborne pathogens, HIPAA compliance, and CPR certification. The NAACLS is requesting approval for this program.  South Arkansas Community College  Students enrolled in the one-semester program at South Arkansas Community College in El Dorado, Arkansas, are prepared for careers in phlebotomy. Students can obtain their certification in phlebotomy by completing seven credit hours of coursework in phlebotomy, professionalism, patient relations, and medical technology. In addition to working at least 100 clinical hours in designated healthcare facilities, students must complete 100 successful unaided collections and maintain a grade of C or higher in all courses. The practicum is set up by the program director. This program is accredited by NAACLS, and there is a 14-student maximum per class.  Cost of Courses in Phlebotomy Programs for phlebotomy are reasonably priced when compared to the potential earnings. The cost of a course can vary from $700 to $3,000, based on the training duration and school. Students who want certification also need to pay a test fee, which ranges from $90 to $200. States that demand licensing will also pay an additional $58 to $200. According to data from the BLS (May 2022), the average hourly wage in this field was $19.51, or $40,580 per year. Phlebotomists mean wages were higher in California, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., New York, and California—all over $46,900. Wrapping Up It can take a year or less to become a phlebotomist, depending on the educational program and whether the student wants to pursue national certification. It could take longer in some states because of the various certification requirements for employment in those states. The duration of education programs varies based on the type of school and program students enroll in, ranging from eight weeks to less than a year. Programs at community colleges might require more time, while those at vocational schools might be quicker. To receive a certificate or diploma and land a job, completing the program's didactic and clinical hours is necessary. Although it's usually not necessary, national certification can be useful when applying for jobs.  Depending on the student's exam preparation and certification motivation, this could take several months or longer to finish. Nonetheless, there are typically time constraints on when a learner can sit for national certification after completing a program. Few states require certification, so working as a phlebotomist can be accomplished in less than a year—especially if the student enrolls in one of the faster-paced programs. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about how to become a phlebotomist, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!  We also have more information if you want to know how to become a pediatrician, a therapist, an orthodontist, an anesthesiologist, a psychologist, or a physician assistant. Learn More About: Therapist Or Psychiatrist: Which One Is Right For You? Life with Braces: Tips from Surrey’s Orthodontic Experts What Does A Career In Anesthesiology Look Like? Click To Know

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Retail Interview Questions

Guarantee To Ace EVERY Retail Interview: Top Retail Interview Questions And How To Answer Them

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how many jobs are available in consumer services

How Many Jobs Are Available in Consumer Services in 2024?

How many jobs are available in consumer services? There are multiple types of jobs in consumer services, and you will have various career opportunities in the industry. Apart from that, most industries in this field offer many opportunities for job growth. Moreover, the US BLS states that there is much potential for new jobs in these areas. In this article, you will learn about how many jobs are available in consumer services. Apart from that, you will also learn about the major job options in this industry. This article also gives you a brief description of the major jobs in this field. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article. What are Consumer Services? According to Indeed.com, “The consumer services field is a sector that focuses on assisting individuals rather than organizations or other businesses. 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Major Industries That Involve Consumer Services The following are the major industries that involve consumer services: Retail Businesses Food and restaurants Transportation and Logistics Travel and Hospitality ECommerce Finance, Insurance, and Banking Telecom Industry Requirements to Work Within Consumer Services Here are the major skills you must have if you want to work within consumer services: Effective communication Problem-solving abilities Active listening Basic technical and software skills Conflict resolution Ability to remain calm under pressure Impact of Automation on Consumer Services: Pros and Cons The following are the major pros and cons of the impact of automation in consumer services: Pros Here are the major pros of automation that benefits consumer services: Better customer experience Higher productivity and efficiency Low chances of human error Cost reduction Customer support even after employee hours Lower pressure on customer service teams Cons Here are a few cons of the automation that negatively impacts consumer services: Job displacement and unemployment Lack of human interaction Technical glitches A lot of dependence on technology Cost of initial implementation How Many Jobs Are Available in Consumer Services in 2024? 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On the other hand, professionals who work in the consumer services fields like digital marketing advertising, and promotion expect a 7% increase in jobs.  Top 5 Jobs in Consumer Services If you are someone who is looking for jobs in consumer services, the following positions integrate people and money. The following are some of the most popular and important jobs that you will find in consumer services: 1. Concierge Generally, you will find concierges across the hospitality industry and in other sectors as well. However, you will commonly find them in hotels, lodging, travel, and tourism. Basically, a concierge helps guests in tourist centers and hotels. Actually, they will assist customers with lodging and dining reservations. Apart from that, they are also common in transportation services, event planning, and activities. On the other hand, concierges also ensure visiting guests are comfortable. Also, they ensure enjoyable experiences when they stay. Average salary: $41,349 per year 2. Retail Sales Associate You will find retail sales associates assisting customers and providing support in a retail setting. Apart from that, they also answer customer questions. Basically, they play a massive role in customer service. This is to help their stores increase customer satisfaction and sales. According to Coursera, “A retail associate helps customers while they shop, answers questions, and assists in daily store operations. In this role, you serve as a representative of the retail brand and play an important role in the store’s overall success. Retail associates might also be referred to as sales associates or representatives.” Generally, these professionals can also advance in managerial roles. In such roles, they supervise their teams, which interact with their customers regularly. Average salary: $43,169 per year 3. Technical Support Specialist In general, a technical support specialist oversees different customer service tasks. These include answering customer questions and offering solutions to tech problems. Oftentimes, they work for tech companies and offer technical and computer support to customers. On the other hand, tech support professionals also specialize in niche areas. These include software, network, and data security. Average salary: $54,916 per year 4. Academic Adviser Indeed explains, “Academic advisers provide counseling services that help students determine the best academic studies and educational programs to meet their goals. They help students choose and plan out educational coursework, evaluate academic preparedness and provide guidance for academic success.” As the name suggests, academic advisers help students in their admission and placement processes. Generally, they work with admission offices and ensure students receive the necessary educational support. Actually, they work in a public or a private institution and essentially help students assess their career plans. While academic advisers help high school students and others offer guidance to college students. Average salary: $44,719 per year 5. Social Worker According to Coursera, “A social worker is a trained professional who works with all types of vulnerable people, groups, and communities to help them learn to live better lives. Social workers tend to work with populations suffering due to poverty, discrimination, or other social injustices.” Social workers have an important role in ensuring the safety and health of communities. You will find them often working with mental and health care professionals. Apart from that, they also help families and individuals to cope and overcome various challenges. These include illnesses, traumatic experiences, addiction, and disabilities. On the other hand, a social worker also works as a support system for families and individuals. They help them make lifestyle improvements and work towards healthy social goals. Average salary: $58,939 per year Getting a Job in Consumer Services: The Way Forward How many jobs are available in consumer services? Hope this article was helpful for you to get a better understanding of the number of jobs. If you want to work in consumer services, consider working towards your networking and communications skills. This way, you can increase your chances of selection. Do you have more information to share about consumer services? Please share them in the comments section below. Read Also: In Demand Jobs 2024: 11 Roles That Are Skyrocketing In The Job Market Copywriting Jobs 101: Essential Steps To Become A Copywriter

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