Ask These Questions to Get the Best Seasonal Workers for Your Business

If you're planning to hire seasonal help in the coming weeks to aid with the holiday rush, you're not alone. U.S. businesses are expected to hire 410,000 seasonal employees this year, according to outplacement services firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas. 

But if you're going to bring in extra help to assist with the holiday rush, it's important to find the right hires. After all, you're going to tap your bank account to pay them, and you're going to invest time in training them. You don't want to hire the wrong candidate only to have to scramble to find someone new at a time when business is at its busiest. Here are some interview questions worth asking.

1. Why are you seeking seasonal work?

You may have an applicant who's looking for seasonal work because they're not sure what sort of job they want and are testing the waters. Or perhaps you have a candidate who's in limbo due to going back to school or an upcoming move. 

It may be helpful to know off the bat if there's a chance that a given seasonal hire has the potential to become a long-term employee or not. So it's good to try to understand why your candidates are seeking seasonal work as opposed to a permanent position. 

Keep in mind that some people might tell you they're looking for seasonal work simply to boost their savings account balance or scrounge up more cash for the holidays. That's not necessarily a reason not to hire someone -- and you should appreciate anyone who's honest about their motivation.

2. What's your availability and how flexible is your schedule?

You'll clearly need to make sure anyone you're considering hiring is available when you need them to be. But also, ask about flexibility. 

During the holidays, you might get slammed with business, and you may need to call in workers for extra shifts at a moment's notice. You'll want someone who can potentially accommodate those requests. 

3. What experience do you have in a similar role?

You may not be able to find applicants who have direct experience for the job you're looking to fill. For example, let's say you own a stationery store. You may not find too many applicants who have worked in that exact retail situation. 

But, if you find someone with experience at a home goods store, certain aspects of that role could easily translate to your own shop. Be open to tangential experience if you're not finding the exact experience you want.

4. What experience do you have working under pressure?

Holiday shoppers are often pressed for time and limited in patience. After all, stores are crowded and there's a lot of pressure to spend money, which can create a stressful atmosphere.

As such, working a seasonal gig could mean being exposed to angry customers, long lines, and constant demands. You'll want to make sure anyone you hire isn't going to simply crack under pressure. Ask about ways they've handled stressful situations before and inquire about coping strategies they know how to employ during those difficult shifts.

If you're bringing in seasonal help, it's important to find the right people for the job. Asking these questions could help you narrow down your applicants and, ideally, find employees who are a solid fit.