We’ve now reached the busiest time of year for many employers – even if you’re not in the retail industry. And your seasonal employees might be an important asset long after the holiday rush.
Thanks to the lowest unemployment rate in 16 years and the rising gig economy, this past year has proven especially challenging for employers searching for the right talent. Identifying and hiring new employees is growing more difficult and expensive, so what can your organization do to retain the top performers of your temporary seasonal workforce for next year’s needs?
In episode 25 of the HR Break Room podcast, we met with Science Museum Oklahoma’s guest relations director, Melody Muniz, and the vice president of programs, Clint Stone, to learn how they successfully identify and retain the top performers from their seasonal workforce.
Here are the three main takeaways from our discussion.
1. Identify top performers today
To prepare for future busy seasons, identify the seasonal employees who currently shine with your customer base. Make sure you’re on their radar six months to a year in advance; during the offboarding process, ensure that managers communicate to top performers that they are welcome to return for the next peak season.
2. Foster a culture that inspires returning employees
Muniz and Stone discussed how their museum’s culture inspires those seasonal employees to return year after year. Many of their top-performing employees were frequent museum visitors years before they were old enough to join the workforce. Because of their fond childhood memories, they now bring their passion for the museum’s mission to work with them.
Science Museum Oklahoma leaders strive to put the mission first – one of dedication to learning and discovery – when making decisions that may impact its workforce. Its culture is dedicated to learning and discovery. For example, before the museum opens each morning, all employees are invited to participate in daily fun and educational activities that provide growth opportunities. More than merely wanting to hire a seasonal workforce, this organization also wishes to inspire the wonder and relevance of science in each employee – no matter how long they may remain on the payroll.
This gives the museum a competitive advantage over other seasonal employers. Consider how your unique culture can inspire your seasonal employees.
3. Use technology to stay in touch
Science Museum Oklahoma is able to retain many of its best seasonal employees by using tech to keep in touch. According to Muniz, messenger apps, email and multiple social media platforms play an important role in staying connected with seasonal talent throughout the year. Your existing seasonal employees can help you reach future employees with similar availability. For example, when implementing a retention strategy for high school and college-aged talent, reach out to gauge their interest in returning a few months before seasonal breaks and major holidays. That can help you identify how early to post open positions.
With the holidays now upon us, this is a great time to build and implement a seasonal employee retention strategy for future peak seasons. Start today by ensuring that your best ones aren’t walking out the door before you make them an offer to return.