How to jumpstart your career this festive season

It is tempting to think of the holiday season as a time to relax, party and enjoy the festive spirit. What you may not realise is that the festive season is the perfect time to get your foot in the door of the working world.
Employer staffing needs – especially in the retail and hospitality industry – increase over the holiday period and it offers you a way to land a permanent job, if you play your cards right.

While a temporary job might not be exactly what you are looking for, if you make a good impression it could become a permanent position. Most employers say they plan on keeping around some of their seasonal staff after the holidays have ended.
Remember: The holiday season is the time to be searching for jobs if you’ve never had a job before. Use a holiday job as an opportunity to show employers that you have what they are looking for and that you can great value to their business.

1. Say yes to any opportunity

Take the job even if it’s not your dream job, or it doesn’t match your training, or the pay isn’t that great. Think of it as a trial period. Good staff are noticed and employers will often keep on those holiday staff who stand out for excellent performance and attitude. Even if they do not, they will be happy to refer you to other employers or branches and may keep you in mind should a vacancy become available.

2. Be the Model Employee

Come on time, show up every day and follow instructions. Ask questions if you are not sure, and commit to working throughout the entire holiday period.

3. Have an open schedule.

We know that it’s the holiday season and, chances are, you might want to keep your nights and weekends free to hang with friends and family. To make the most of your opportunity, work all the hours you have agreed to and more if possible. Be as flexible as possible—working night shifts, weekends or filling in for someone who’s sick—you show your employer that you are someone they can count on. Your efforts will be appreciated and remembered when your employer is looking to hire permanent staff.

4. Be a team player

Volunteer for a variety of tasks; Show you’re eager to learn all aspects of the operation. Don’t wait for someone to ask you to do a task. Be a team player and offer to do tasks which are not your responsibility. Being able to contribute to the team and not just your job makes you more attractive as a potential full-time employee.

5. Stay cool under pressure and keep a positive attitude

Employers care a lot about your, especially in during the festive season. Holidays can be the busiest time of the year for some industries, and working there can be pretty hectic and somewhat stressful. Employers want people who can stay calm under pressure, and always treat customers with a smile and be part of the team.

Taking advantage of festive season opportunities could result in you starting the new year with a long-term job or extra cash in hand – and an added reason to celebrate.
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https://www.lulaway.co.za/resources/articles/how-to-jumpstart-your-career-this-festive-season/

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