The hottest sales time begins - the pre-holiday and Christmas period. It is also a high season on the temporary work market. The increase in orders in November and December is, on the one hand, big profits, and on the other hand, a problem of many production and service films. It turns out, however, that this year's shortage of seasonal workers is particularly acute. How to deal with it? Here are some tips.
Christmas is the most anticipated period in practically all industries. At every stage, from production, through sales, to logistics, companies count on high profits. This is obviously related to the shopping fever and the preparation of the holidays. Both stationary and online sales are at their peak of effectiveness during this period. However, an obstacle to efficient customer service is the lack of seasonal workers. Without them, it is very difficult for companies to fulfill their data obligations for consumers. So what to do?
What is the reason for the lack of employees?
There are several factors. Experts point to the general shortage of workers resulting from the demographic situation in the country. However, this year's aftermath of the pandemic is the most striking. The coronavirus left foreigners abroad for a long time, and they made up a very large percentage of seasonal workers each year. Most of them came from across the eastern border, so the political situation is not without significance. Another issue is the internal rules of companies that allow only vaccinated people to work, thus limiting the possibility of a large part, especially of very young people. Young people, and especially students, are always a very valuable group of seasonal workers.
However, while during the holiday season they have a lot of free time to work, they have to devote to studying in the winter months. Those who want and can work are looking for longer employment. It should be emphasized that the interest in temporary work is not weakening, but the number of companies and the demand are growing every year. The main task of companies is therefore to provide adequate facilities and wage conditions for those who remain undecided - says Sebastian Kopiej from the Commplace agency. How to deal with the shortage of seasonal workers in practice?
Where to look for an employee and how to encourage him?
Companies look for employees in many ways: employment agencies, employment offices, internet portals, local job databases. All roads are good as long as they work. The big problem is that companies decide too late to increase their sales offer or extend their services. Some people may be surprised by the lack of seasonal workers. You should start looking for employees early enough, measuring your intentions. How to convince those who wish to be employed? The key is to ensure appropriate conditions. Candidates are afraid of being exploited and over-exploited in the short term. Many hours of shifts, few breaks, excess orders intended for one person - it is very discouraging. Employers complain that many people drop out during the peak season. We now have the last moment to prevent this from happening - emphasizes Sebastian Kopiej.
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What advice should every employer consider?
- Start recruiting early enough. Plan well how many employees you need. It may turn out that the cost of employment will be disproportionate to the profits, if you do not make precise plans. Or, on the contrary - orders that are not fulfilled due to the lack of employees will lower profits and destroy trust in the company.
- Provide employees with appropriate and clear conditions from the very beginning. The hourly wage in the case of temporary employment should be higher than the national minimum wage. This may encourage people with permanent employment to take up additional work in the coming period.
- Look for interns to find employment also after the end of the season. A shortage of temporary workers can turn into a general shortage over time. You will get help in the hottest period, as well as a potential qualified employee. You can report to the Employment Office in advance and take advantage of internship programs.
- Take care to comply with the labor code, also if you hire employees on the basis of a mandate contract. As many lawyers have reported, companies that fail to adhere to basic standards suffer doubly - they lose employees and lose profits. A bad reputation for the employer results in a lack of customer trust.
- Use different channels to reach young people who may not have thought about taking up a job. Remember the huge potential of social media and effective communication. A good idea and valuable recruitment are the keys to success.