School holidays are traditionally when retailers enjoy increased
footfall. Of course, this is also exactly the time when some staff want
time off to spend with their kids.
When it comes to managing staff holidays, many small businesses
always struggle – not just retailers. However, all small firms can
prepare to have well-trained resources available when regular staff want
a break.
The answer is students. During term time most students can only
manage weekend work – which is good for the retailers, as you can take
them on for your busiest periods, ensure regular staff get some weekends
off every month and get the weekend staff trained up. Students
always need extra cash – and they’re usually available full time during
the school holiday periods. Therefore, if you play your cards right,
you can have competent, loyal, well-trained staff available when you
need them.
Approach your local university, college or school 6th form and ask if
you can advertise weekend/holiday positions on the notice boards or
intranet. Make sure your interview and selection process is entirely
professional and always ensure you provide high quality training.
Train your student workforce during part-time weekend hours in
term-time so that when it comes to school holidays you’ll be confident
enough to let your regular full timers take time off, leaving your
student workforce to rise to the challenge of providing holiday cover.
Having the right mix of staff available to cover peaks and troughs,
seasonal variations and key staff holiday cover is a great benefit.
You’ll know your customer experience won’t be compromised and you’ll be
able to capitalise on increased seasonal footfall.
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