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Tips for the holiday job seeker

Source: Tribune Media Services

CareerBuilder offers the following tips to job seekers desiring a holiday position:

-Start applying early: Nearly 80 percent of hiring managers do not plan to accept applications for seasonal workers beyond November. Especially in a competitive job market, getting your resume in early will help your chances of securing a position.

-Do your homework: Nearly a quarter of hiring managers say that having no knowledge of the company or products deterred them from hiring a seasonal candidate in the past. Check out the company’s Web site before the interview and familiarize yourself with products, services, press announcements, etc so the hiring manager knows you’re serious about the opportunity.

-Show enthusiasm: Nearly half of employers say they were turned off by a candidate who lacked enthusiasm during their interview. Convey that you’re excited about the opportunity to contribute to the success of the organization and stay away from saying the primary reason you want the position is for the employee discount.

-Dress the part: If you are interviewing for a job in a retail clothing store, it’s a good idea to show up dressed in an outfit from that store. Ten percent of hiring managers said candidates who interviewed for a job in a competitor’s ensemble were ultimately not considered for the open position.

-Be flexible regarding your schedule: Forty-seven percent of hiring managers said they were turned off by a candidate who refused to work certain hours. Seasonal hours tend to fluctuate; you need to be open and flexible to alternative schedules.

-Use specific keywords: To find the most relevant jobs, search online using the following terms: seasonal, holiday, part-time, temporary and Christmas.

© 2009, Tribune Media Services