Seasonal work is an important source of extra income for many Americans. But what if seasonal employment isn’t enough income or you want to pursue your career farther than such employment allows? You can successfully transition from seasonal to permanent work and enjoy the extra benefits. Here are a few steps anyone can take to help make this happen.
1. Ask Employers About Opportunity
Don’t be afraid to come and out ask your employer — or potential employer — about the availability of permanent positions at their company. After all, employers who don’t know your objectives can’t help you fulfill them. So mention to interviewers, supervisors, and a placement agency your desire to work after the season ends and what opportunities might exist both now and later.
2. Be a Good Seasonal Worker
Most companies that hire seasonal employees are always looking for a pool of good workers to use for other opportunities. Such opportunities include asking workers back the following season, giving them more responsibilities or benefits, and even keeping a list of likely candidates if a permanent job opens up.
Your best bet to get on that list is to be a great temporary worker. Show up before your shift starts and follow company policies. Be diligent about every assignment. Give great customer service. Be an enjoyable co-worker. And keep a positive attitude no matter what the season may throw at you. Your supervisor will notice.
3. Work With a Placement Agency
Temporary placement agencies are an excellent resource for anyone seeking both seasonal and full-time work. These agencies have a network of companies that hire for a wide variety of positions, so they do much of the work for you. If you take on seasonal jobs with a good attitude and hard work, the agency knows it has a quality employee to provide for better or more permanent jobs.
Temporary agencies also offer ways to help you land a better gig. They can often help you spruce up your resume, learn skills needed for your chosen career path, and give interview tips and tricks. Even taking on a few short-term positions through the agency will help you hone your skills and business etiquette in valuable ways.
4. Go the Extra Mile
Set yourself above the pack by taking the initiative. Does the company or your supervisor offer any additional training? Get whatever extra skills or training you can even during short employment. Volunteer to work with other departments, fill in for other positions, or work with a different team.
The advantage of taking on extra learning opportunities is twofold. First, you expand your network and become known by more people within the company. Second, you gain valuable skills inside and beyond the company that can help you qualify for more positions.
5. Use Seasonal Work to Find Your Niche
Seasonal positions can be ideal to help you find the best career path for you. You might be able to work for a variety of employers — from small companies to multinational corporations — and in a variety of positions. Use this time to figure out what works for you and what you find interesting or fulfilling. The more interested you are in what you do, the better you’ll be able to put your energy into pursuing it.
Can you put into practice any of these tips for turning seasonal work into a long-term position? No matter what your approach, the effort will be worth your time. And Tulsa’s Green Country Staffing can help. We will work with you to find the right niche, to build on your skills, and to work with employers whose needs match your goals. Call today to make an appointment.
