There are many reasons people work full-time or part-time -- socializing, using your education and skills or tackling challenges -- but most often it comes down to earning money. According to an American Staffing Association survey, 69 percent of respondents said that additional income was an important factor in employees' decision to pursue temporary or contract work.

Seasonal work is one of the most beneficial ways to pursue temporary employment. Potential employees can choose when, where, and how they want to work. Companies love the operational flexibility of being able to increase staff during their busiest seasons.

Here are the top five considerations for seasonal work opportunities from the team at Snelling Staffing Services, which has 182 staffing agency offices nationwide.

Consider the time of year you want to work.

Did you know that September is a great time of year to fill out applications for holiday jobs? Many companies accept applications in September and October for work that begins around Thanksgiving through New Year's. Shipping and fulfillment are popular winter jobs, in addition to loss prevention, customer service, merchandising and stocking inventory.

In the summer, some restaurants extend their hours to accommodate families and travelers, creating a need to help fill those orders. Popular summer jobs can also include positions within recreation and aquatics centers, amusement parks, athletic teams and camps.

Employers

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that need temporary staffing help year round include conventions, hospitality and banquet events. Think of June weddings, while January and February are popular months for conventions and tradeshows. This allows you as a candidate to pick the season that works with your needs.

What are your strengths or skills?

If you have experience in a particular industry, especially a specific skill, or have pursued a field with continuing education, you are more likely to be hired for that expertise. Some specific skills being sought after right now include manufacturing jobs, such as parts assembly, or information technology help desk associates.

If you have accounting experience, the spring tax season is a great opportunity for seasonal work. Companies and staffing agencies begin employee recruiting in the fall for the following year's tax season.

Consider your strengths along with the seasonal hiring needs of a particular region. Florida, for example, is experiencing a construction boom from hurricanes in recent years, along with population growth, and needs workers, full and part-time, for jobs related to all aspects of the construction industry.

What's your availability?

What are your time constraints or parameters during the season you want to work? Do you have family time to work around? If so, you might want to consider the night shift or early mornings during school hours. If you look for opportunities that fit within your schedule and are up front with your potential employer about your availability, the better your situation.

Selling caps, gowns and announcements during the school day in the spring might be right up your alley to earn the extra cash you need. The ASA also finds that 64 percent of staffing employees report that their work gives them the scheduling flexibility and the time for family that they desire.

Do you have an industry or dream job in mind?

Think about seasonal work as an opportunity to try something new or pursue your dream job. If you've always wanted to pursue baking, think ahead to the month of June when bakers are their busiest prepping for the influx of weddings. If you have a healthy obsession for shopping, consider being a part-time mystery shopper. If you've always wanted to travel, consider temporary employment within the travel industry when travel volumes increase during the summer and companies need extra help working with customers. Beyond your paycheck, the travel perks can be beneficial.

Will you need a full-time job within the next five years?

According to Workforce Management, the number of temporary workers retained as full-time employees is expected to grow by 15 percent this year. One of the main reasons employees choose temporary assignments is the opportunity for full-time employment. The same is true for seasonal hiring. If you prove your worth during a seasonal project, the company may find a spot for you or at least provide a shining reference for a similar position.

With all these considerations in mind, where do you go from here? Visit a staffing agency like Snelling, where they have experienced employment recruiters that can help you find the job you need that fits into your seasonal schedule. Their aptitude tests can also help you pick an industry suited to your personality.

For more information about seasonal opportunities in your area, visit Snelling Staffing Services at www.snelling.com to find the office near you or by calling (800) 411-6401. Snelling delivers temporary, career and professional staffing solutions to companies, with 182 offices throughout the U.S.

Courtesy of ARAcontent