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As the holidays draw near, many companies are beginning to hire seasonal employees in preparation for the shopping rush. This year, with just 27 days between Thanksgiving and Christmas, consumers are expected to begin their holiday shopping earlier than ever.
If you’re an older adult looking to make some extra money, a seasonal part-time job can provide flexible hours, opportunities for social interaction and even store discounts that can help you save on holiday shopping.
“While some industries, such as retail, anticipate slower holiday hiring this year versus last year, there are still many opportunities for seasonal employees to find roles,” says Sandra Moran, chief marketing and customer experience officer at WorkForce Software, a workforce experience software company. “Since there’s also an increase in travel during the holidays, more hospitality jobs, in hotels and restaurants, also become available.”
Moran points to large retailers including Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s and JCPenney, which have already announced plans to hire seasonal workers. These temporary positions typically begin in October or November and last through January or February, assisting with returns, restocking and inventory.
“People over 50 can connect the dots between their prior experience and the seasonal role they’re applying for,” Moran says. “If they worked in client services earlier in their career and are applying for a retail role, they should highlight how those customer service skills translate and why they’re a good hire.”
If you’re looking for a seasonal job, Moran encourages job seekers to apply early and target several companies that might be a good fit. Amid a slowing job market overall, the research firm Challenger, Gray and Christmas, Inc., expects retailers to add 520,000 jobs in the last quarter of 2024, fewer than the 564,200 jobs added by retailers during the 2023 holiday season.
Moran encourages job seekers to have an “elevator pitch” that tells employers why you’re interested in the job opportunity, what you bring to the table and what you like about the hiring company.
For example, like most retailers, Ulta Beauty doesn’t require seasonal workers to have previous experience. It does ask for a high school diploma, as well as the ability to think on your feet. In return, seasonal employees receive a salary of $15-$23 an hour, a 25 percent discount on Ulta Beauty products and 50 percent off on beauty services.
The following 15 businesses, listed alphabetically, have announced they are hiring seasonal workers for the holidays. Clicking on the “Find jobs” link will take to you to postings for that company on either the AARP Job Board or the company’s website.
Aldi
Find Aldi jobs
With more than 12,000 stores in 18 countries, the discount grocery store chain plans to hire 13,000 seasonal workers for its stores and warehouses. The jobs include cashiers, store associates and stockers, and the average starting wage is $18-$23 per hour, based on market and position.
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