Holiday Workforce Growth: Drivers Behind the Seasonal Hiring Boom

Holiday Workforce Growth: Drivers Behind the Seasonal Hiring Boom
Over half of job seekers plan to take on extra work this season, while seasonal businesses prepare to meet higher demands.
Workers Are Hustling for the Holidays
More than half of workers, specifically 57%, are considering taking on extra work during the holiday season, primarily driven by the rising cost of living. Nearly half of workers, around 44%, reported that financial pressures have become a significant motivator for seeking additional income. Compared to the previous year, 73% of individuals say they are more inclined to accept extra hours or even explore second job opportunities during this festive period, with retail roles and freelancing jumping to the top of their preferences.
Seasonal Businesses Anticipate Higher Demand
Employers in the retail, logistics, and hospitality sectors are gearing up for what is expected to be one of the busiest seasons on record. In fact, nearly half of these businesses foresee an increase in holiday demand, with 48% planning to hire more seasonal staff than last year, a clear indication of the growing reliance on temporary workers to manage peak times. Most employers are placing a significant emphasis on customer support roles, with 56% prioritizing these positions, closely followed by those in warehouse and logistics, reflecting the continuing trend towards e-commerce and online shopping.
Challenges in Staffing: Flexibility vs Reliability
While businesses strive to meet increasing demands through expanded hiring, they face ongoing challenges related to worker reliability. A staggering 56% of seasonal businesses cite attendance issues as their biggest barrier in filling shifts. Although competitive wages remain critical, workers increasingly express a desire for greater flexibility in their scheduling. In fact, 39% indicate that more flexible scheduling options would make seasonal jobs more appealing. This demonstrates a significant shift in worker expectations and preferences.
Insights From Industry Experts
“Retailers are under pressure to meet higher demand with leaner resources, while workers are under pressure to earn more to cope with rising living costs,” said Novo Constare, CEO and Co-founder of Indeed Flex. “Flexibility is emerging as the bridge between these needs. Employers who embrace adaptable scheduling and faster pay options will be better positioned to attract and retain the reliable talent they need this holiday season.”
Methodology Behind the Research
The insights provided are based on a comprehensive survey conducted by Indeed Flex, which involved responses from 1,200 workers and 1,200 hiring decision-makers across the United States and the United Kingdom. The survey aimed to reflect the diverse perspectives of both job seekers and employers during this crucial hiring season.
About Indeed Flex
Indeed Flex is revolutionizing the temporary staffing industry by empowering job seekers with the autonomy to choose when and where they work. This innovative platform not only connects businesses with a dependable and skilled workforce but also incorporates a Vendor Management System (VMS) that enhances staffing visibility, reduces operational costs, increases efficiency, and boosts overall productivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is driving the surge in holiday hiring?
Many job seekers are looking for extra work primarily due to the rising cost of living, with more than half considering seasonal employment this year.
Which sectors are most actively hiring this holiday season?
Retail, logistics, and hospitality sectors are particularly focused on increasing their seasonal workforce to meet heightened demand.
What challenges are employers facing during the hiring spree?
Many employers cite worker reliability, particularly attendance, as a significant challenge in filling seasonal shifts.
How important is flexibility for workers this holiday season?
Flexibility in scheduling is increasingly important for workers, with 39% indicating it as a key factor in their decision to choose seasonal employment.
Who conducted the research on holiday hiring trends?
The research was conducted by Indeed Flex, surveying both job seekers and employing decision-makers to gain insights into seasonal hiring trends.
About The Author
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