Seasonal hiring: how to plan ahead and hire well

Whether it's the run-up to Christmas, the summer holidays or a busy harvest, many businesses need extra hands at the same point each year. The problem is that everyone else is hiring at the same time. Planning ahead makes the difference between a smooth season and a stressful one.

1. Start earlier than you think

Work back from the date you need people in place. Allow time for advertising, screening, interviews, right to work checks and training. For most roles that means starting to recruit six to ten weeks before your peak. The best seasonal candidates are often snapped up early.

2. Look at last year's numbers

Check how many extra staff you needed last year, when demand started to rise and when it tailed off. This gives you a realistic headcount and tells you how long contracts need to run.

3. Be upfront in the advert

Make it clear the role is seasonal, with the start and end dates, hours and pay. Mention any chance of extended or permanent work, as it attracts more applicants. Students, parents looking for school-hours work and people between roles are often a good fit.

4. Recruit for several roles at once

Hiring for a group of similar roles in one campaign is quicker and cheaper than filling them one by one. You can run one advert, screen everyone against the same criteria and hold interviews in batches. With Wright Resourcing, multiple roles can be bundled at a lower cost.

5. Keep your responsibilities in mind

Seasonal and temporary staff have many of the same rights as permanent employees, including the minimum wage, holiday pay and a written statement of their terms. Right to work checks apply to every new starter, however short the contract.

6. Build a pool for next year

Your best seasonal staff are your easiest hires next time. Keep in touch with good people, and keep the details of strong candidates you couldn't take on this time, with their permission. Owning your candidate pipeline means next season starts with a head start.

Plan your next season

If a busy period is coming up, get in touch and we'll recommend a package, with a clear price for bundled roles.