Holiday jobs: Top tips, types of jobs and more…

Looking for different holiday jobs? With an increased demand for part-time staff during the holiday season, there are plenty of opportunities to get hired. From creating a CV to preparing for the interview, there is a range of ways that you can increase your chances of success. Register your free CV on Job Mail and start applying for holiday job opportunities today.

What are holiday jobs

A holiday job can be defined as a temporary job taken by a person during holiday periods. These periods can include the festive season or school, college, and university holidays.

Tips on how to find a holiday job

1. Create a CV

A professional CV is a must-have for any job seeker. Include your work experience and skills in this document. Make sure you choose a format that is clear and neat and check your CV for spelling and grammar mistakes before you use it. Keep your CV updated with your latest accomplishments and job experience.

2. Look for employment

The holidays are the perfect time to find a part-time position. The catering and retail industries need extra staff to meet the demands of shoppers during busier seasons. If you enjoy cooking, you could apply for a position in a restaurant. Looking for a job takes dedication so set aside time each day to spend on this task.

3. Get ready for the interview

The job interview is your opportunity to make a good first impression on your prospective employer. You’re likely to be asked about your strengths and weaknesses and why you want to work for the company so prepare your answers ahead of time. Dress neatly and always be friendly. Plan your time so that you can arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the interview.

4. Apply early

Don’t wait until the holidays to start applying for part-time jobs. Most employers do the majority of their hiring before the busy holiday period starts. Start sending in applications ahead of time so that you can increase your chances of getting hired.

5. Be flexible

A holiday job typically comes with a variety of working hours. You’re more likely to find employment if you’re willing to work outside regular business hours, which may include night and weekend shifts.

Different types of holiday jobs

Below is a list of some part-time positions to look out for during holiday seasons:

• Waiter/waitress/runner
• Teller
• Packer
• House sitter
• Retail/sales assistant
• Cook/assistant cook
• Driver
• Sales assistant
• Promoters
• Call centre agent
• Factory worker
• Cleaner
• Travel consultant
• Administrator
• Security guard
• Stock taker
• Data capturer
• Customer care representative
• Au pair/babysitter
• Receptionist

Common myths about holiday jobs

• Hiring only starts once the holidays have begun.

In reality, employers start looking for part-time staff well in advance, it gives them time to train and prepare everyone before the busy season begins.

• All holiday jobs are found in the retail industry.

Although the retail industry offers a lot of opportunities during the holiday season, there are various businesses across South Africa that offer opportunities too. You can seek part-time employment at shipping companies, food manufacturers, catering businesses and many more.

• Holiday work finishes at the end of December.

Opportunities for holiday work can arise throughout the year. From Easter to winter promotions, Black Friday, and Christmas time, there are always opportunities you can look for.

Now that you know how to find holiday jobs, you can start sending out applications for part-time work this festive season. What are you waiting for? Submit your CV for free on Job Mail and start looking for opportunities today.