Where To Work This Fall

Changing seasons means companies are hiring. October is an ideal time to look for seasonal work because retailers usually hire extra help for the holiday season.

By Robert Elsenpeter, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing

Last update: October 29, 2007 - 11:11 AM

It's the time of year when the leaves change colors, when the air is cool and crisp, and thoughts turn to bonfires and football. And, if you like to work seasonally - or just want to pick up some extra money for the holidays - it's also the time of year to start thinking about work. Many job opportunities present themselves every fall.

Seasonal work appeals to workers for a number of reasons: for stay-at-home parents, the kids might be back at school and it's a good opportunity to get out of the house. Students might want to earn some extra money. And some people simply like the flexibility temporary employment affords.

"It's either the younger generation, housewives or the older generation," observes Caleb Fullhart, president of the Staffing Association of Minnesota.

But, largely, the people who work seasonally prefer that schedule.

"Some people just like to be seasonally employed," says Fullahrt.

Retail

"In the fall - particularly as we get closer to the holiday season - seasonal openings may occur for jobs like retail sales, cashiers, stock clerks and warehouse or material-moving occupations," says Kirsten Morell, communications director for the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development

For most retail outlets, it's no surprise that they need to get ready for months to follow.

"The biggest business quarter is the fourth quarter," adds Fullhart. "Retailers ramp up in the fall for Christmas. Every mall in the area is hiring in October for November."

Other Opportunities

While retail usually accounts for most of the seasonal jobs, they aren't the only game in town.

If you're considering seasonal work, there's plenty out there and they're waiting to hear from you.

Historically, the mortgage industry also sees an upswing in need for workers in the fall and spring. But the industry has not been as strong as it has been and may or may not need the additional workers it typically needs.

"That's a hard one to call," says Fullhart. "They may not see the demand this year that they usually do."

Another area warming up is the winter hospitality industry, notes Morell.

"Places like ski resorts hire for the winter," says Morell. "While summer jobs - like those at swimming pools, and golf courses - tend to go dormant this time of year, those winter hospitality jobs are starting up."

Also, with school back in session, there is demand for support staff at local schools.

"People like paraprofessionals and janitors are in demand," adds Morell.

But for professionals in business and finance, the season isn't relevant - the work is out there and they need workers.

"The unemployment rate remains low for degreed professionals," says Randy Marmon, president of Kforce Professional Staffing. "Need exceeds supply."

Marmon feels the need will continue and increase.

"There's going to be more demand and wages are going to increase," adds Marmon.

If you're considering seasonal work, there's plenty out there and they're waiting to hear from you.

Robert Elsenpeter is a freelance writer from Blaine.

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