Do’s & Don’ts of Hiring Seasonal Employees
Posted October 25th, 2019
Many companies need to bring on contingent workers to deal with seasonal upswings in demand. It ensures that the business can meets its productivity goals during peak seasons, giving them access to short-term team members just for the period where they are needed.
By understanding the do’s and don’ts of hiring seasonal employees, you can set your company up for success. If you rely on contingent workers during peak seasons, here’s what you need to know.
Do Onboard and Train
While it may seem like skipping the onboarding process for seasonal employees saves time and energy, it isn’t a great idea. Without a proper introduction to the company and their roles, short-term hires may struggle in their positions. This is especially true if any expectations aren’t clearly explained, they aren’t given clear direction regarding their duties, or they don’t know how to use or find the tools they need to handle their tasks.
By creating an onboarding and training program for seasonal workers, you are empowering them to succeed. They’ll have a solid understanding of policies and procedures, what it takes to exceed expectations, and how to navigate the environment. Plus, they’ll feel more comfortable and welcome in the workplace, something else that can bolster productivity.
Don’t Underpay
Some companies may think that they can pay seasonal workers less for their skills since they won’t be around long-term. However, by underpaying, you’ll struggle to keep your top performers.
By paying a fair wage, you’ll improve retention and job satisfaction. This will reduce your recruitment needs during your peak season and increase morale, leading to higher productivity.
Do Make It Meaningful
Many seasonal employees aren’t told how their contributions impact the company’s mission. This makes the work less meaningful, and that can harm motivation.
Instead of leaving them wondering, let your short-term hires know how their work helps the company achieve its goals and not just financial ones. Explain the impact they have on customers and their communities, as this gives them an intrinsic reward for performing well in their position.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
Some companies put off their seasonal hiring until it is absolutely necessary. When this approach is used, it often leads the business to rush through its recruitment and hiring process, which can lead to subpar decisions.
If your company’s seasonal hiring needs are somewhat predictable, it’s always best to start sooner rather than later. This allows for better planning, thorough screening, and comprehensive onboarding before the peak season is underway. As a result, you’ll be able to find and prepare ideal seasonal employees, increasing the odds that they’ll be a great fit and can excel in their roles.
If you are looking for seasonal workers to bolster your team during your busiest time of year, the professionals at Bayside Solutions can help. Contact us to speak with one of our recruitment specialists today and see how our contingent workforce management expertise can benefit you.
