Problem Solver

Q: How can I overcome the challenges of seasonal hiring, like finding good, short-term workers and hiring international ones?

Navigating the complexities of seasonal hiring is actually a year-round job, says Sherie Brezina, director of the resort and hospitality management program at Florida Gulf Coast University. There are ways to have employees lining up at your door to work for you.

The first place to start for service-industry hiring is local colleges and universities. Canvass and work with all that you can, go to job fairs and try to work with the schools in field experiences, co-ops and internships. Participate in local chambers’ job fairs.

Then the real work begins. Concentrate on building your reputation through your employees; word-of-mouth is still the best advertising.

"Be very cognizant of scheduling. Make sure, if at all possible, to give full-time employees two days off back-to-back. The first day is always duties and chores, the second day to relax and renew. Watch pairing closing and opening shifts," she says.

Make sure to hire for attitude first, requisite skills second. Attitude affects the guest or customer experience and can infect morale. "Season is about working 50 to 60 hours a week. You want the work environment to be a positive one, and that’s all attitude," Brezina says.

For new employees, the key component is training, she notes. "It makes them comfortable to know what they need to do, and significantly improves the customer experience. Use training that empowers the employee to mitigate a situation on the spot."

If you hire international workers through the H-2B visa process, seek a reputable company. If you do it in-house, follow the letter of the law in documentation, and verify Social Security cards.

No matter whom you hire, do a criminal-background check. "You don’t want the unfortunate publicity of jeopardizing customers, guests or members," she says.