October 19, 2022
As the holiday season approaches, college students may find themselves with free time and a need to earn a little extra cash. Employers will be looking for candidates for holiday employment for a variety of positions, from retail to temporary office work.
The labor market for 2022 continues to grow. So, there are plenty of jobs out there. The U.S. Department of Labor reports adding more than one million jobs in the year’s second quarter. Those numbers will likely continue to rise as employers prepare for an increase in shopping and to fill holiday vacation slots.
What are some of the best seasonal jobs for college students? Here are seven we recommend at Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley.
Before you even think about a job this winter, you need to decide what skills you have and what ones you can build. It is safe to say the more you know about computers, the better. Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley offers computer training programs for anyone looking to improve their skills. We offer three levels of computer training:
These classes help you develop skills employers look for when hiring for winter and summer jobs. Most jobs require computer knowledge, so the Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley training course could give you a leg-up over other candidates.
We also assist in resume building and give you access to community resources and job listings.
Once you have the skills, you can look for the right position. Consider seven part time options that stand out this holiday season.
Of course, the holiday job you will likely see listed most is retail sales. Retail stores are adding part-time jobs in anticipation of the holiday shopping season. They will want people able to help stock shelves, work with customers and run cash registers.
Most retail sectors will also have positions to fill, from baby apparel to sports clothing. There will be specialty positions, too, such as pet supplies, makeup, children’s toys, and electronics. There may be different shifts available and even overnight stocking in some stores.
Seasonal jobs at retail stores are the gifts that keep giving. Some stores will bring back people from the previous year that fit well into the job. You might also be able to get substantial employee discounts to save money on your own holiday gifts for family and friends.
If working on the floor doesn’t appeal to you, they may have remote customer service jobs and data entry positions available. That would be a great way to use your computer training from Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley.
People will look for a place to grab a bite as they shop. Many restaurants will add to staff to accommodate the influx during the holidays. You might work as a food server or bartender. The tips can improve your cash flow and get you through the time off. You would also get a small paycheck.
If serving isn’t your thing, consider the skills you could learn working in the back of the house. For example, you could work as a line cook and enhance your culinary skills or do prep work to get an early morning shift.
A virtual assistant is an option if you want a job that offers you flexibility and a chance to work out of your home. This job is often done remotely, so you work on your schedule as long as you complete the tasks.
You could use a virtual assistant job as a way to network, too. Look for something that is in line with your major at school. For example, if you are a business major, look to work for a corporate executive. You could focus on what you could learn from the job, as well. For instance, work for a lawyer if you are pre-law.
If you want to work as a virtual assistant, you will definitely want to build up your computer skills.
There is no reason working a holiday job has to be boring. Big resorts often look for college students during the holidays to work. You might even be able to find a paid or unpaid internship with housing. It’s a smart way to see the country and have some fun at the same time.
Resort jobs could include anything from working in a theme park to the front desk at a big hotel. You might find employment in restaurants or spas, as well. It’s a chance to enjoy the sunshine of Florida or maybe go skiing in the Rookies.
If housing is a problem, you might be able to pet sit for someone while they go away for the holidays. It is a win-win solution for you both. They get someone to watch their house and fur babies while they are away, and you get housing. You might even be able to work remotely at the same time and make more money.
If you have a car, put it to work for you. You can deliver packages, food, or even people with it. Companies like Uber or DoorDash hire often. You can set your own schedule, too. So, you can work full or part-time. You might even drive when you are not working another job.
Mint reports that delivery drives can make anywhere between $16,500 – $77,000 depending on experience. It might be some of the highest paid work available this season.
If you love to shop, consider working as a personal shopper this holiday season. You can help people who don’t have time to go to the stores find the best gifts at the right prices.
Personal shoppers have a lot of opportunities, too. You can work at a store as a personal shopper, for an agency, or freelance and grow your own business.
Whatever work you decide to do this holiday season, remember that Goodwill Industries of Monocacy Valley can help you find the best job with no-cost services and training. Check us out today!
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