The holiday rush in St. Mary Parish is just around the corner, and with more customers comes the need for extra hands. Whether you’re running a retail shop or a restaurant, seasonal workers can be the key to managing the busy months ahead.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical steps to recruit and train reliable temporary staff. We’ll cover everything from finding the right candidates to ensuring they become valuable team members, giving you the tools to help your business thrive during the season.

Finding Seasonal Workers in St. Mary Parish

Here are three simple ways to find seasonal help in St. Mary Parish:

Social Media and Online Groups

Make the most of local Facebook community groups. Many residents actively use these groups to find local job opportunities.

Post your job openings with the basics: work hours, pay rates, job duties, required experience, how long the position will last, and how to apply.

Your business’s own social media pages can also attract potential seasonal workers. A simple post might reach someone perfect for the role.

Window Signs Still Work

Sometimes the simplest approach is best. A well-designed “Now Hiring” sign in your storefront window can catch the eye of people walking by. Make sure to include the position title, job descriptions, pay rates, how to apply, and when you need help to start. 

Ask Within Your Network

Good old word of mouth remains one of the best hiring tools in St. Mary Parish. Let your current employees know you’re hiring. Tell your regular customers you need seasonal help. Mention it to fellow business owners. Ask family and friends to spread the word.

People often recommend reliable workers they know personally, which can lead to better hires. Plus, seasonal workers hired through referrals often feel more connected to the job since they have a personal connection to your business.

Best Hiring Practices for Seasonal Workers in St. Mary Parish

Clear Communication from Day One

Start off on the right foot by being upfront about what the job involves. Clearly outline how long the position will last, the hours they’ll work, and what you expect from them during busy shifts. This helps prevent confusion later on and ensures you find people who can commit to your schedule.

Looking for the Right Fit

When meeting with applicants, pay attention to their schedule flexibility and past work history. Ask about their experience handling busy periods or working in similar roles.

The best seasonal workers often show enthusiasm for customer service and can adapt to changing situations.

Competitive Pay Attracts Good Help

Offering fair wages can help attract reliable seasonal workers. While it might seem like a larger expense upfront, paying well often saves money over time.

You’ll spend less time and resources on constant hiring and training when good workers stay through the entire season.

Adding Extra Value

Consider offering perks that make the job more appealing. Store discounts, flexible scheduling, or end-of-season bonuses can help you stand out from the competition.

Setting Real Expectations

Be honest about the workload. The holiday season can be demanding, with long hours and busy shifts. Let potential hires know they might need to work weekends or evenings. When people know what to expect, they’re more likely to stick around.

Training Your Seasonal Team in St. Mary Parish

A Simple First Day Gets Work Started Right

Start with the basics your seasonal workers need to know. Show them around, introduce key team members, and explain how things work in your business. A simple checklist can help make sure nothing gets missed.

Master the Essential Daily Tasks First

Train new hires on the most important tasks first. Most of the time hands-on practice works better than long lectures. Start with tasks they’ll use every day, then build from there.

Consider Creating Quick Guides

For more complex jobs, having step-by-step guides ready can make a big difference. These don’t need to be fancy – even basic instructions for using the cash register or handling special orders can help new seasonal workers feel more confident. 

Partner with Experienced Staff for Better Learning

Pair each new seasonal worker with an experienced staff member for their first few shifts. They’ll learn faster and feel more comfortable asking questions. Plus, your regular staff can show them those small but important details that might not be in the training manual. 

Read more: How to Prepare Your Small Business for the Holiday Season

Growing Your Business in St. Mary Parish

Our team understands the challenges local businesses face, and we’re here to help you succeed. Give us a call at (337) 828-4100 or fill out our online form.

Through our small business resources in St. Mary Parish, we offer free, confidential assistance with site selection, regulatory compliance guidance, business connections, and more.

 Ready to make this holiday season your best yet? Reach out today and let’s work together to help your business grow.

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