Is it worthwhile to continue recruitment during November and December? YES! 

Your competitors are actively recruiting, and candidates are still searching. Many people have the misconception that the only job searching and hiring taking place is in the retail sector. Google “holiday recruitment” and your search results are likely to return with many seasonal and holiday staffing opportunities.

However, all organizations want to start off the New Year prepared with the right staff. Let’s examine AgCareers.com data last year for example. Crop and animal production were some of the top sectors hiring in agriculture. Farm and ranch operations/herdsperson/on-farm was the most popular career type for jobs posted last December. Maintenance and operations positions were also popular. 

But, even more importantly, are job seekers still looking now? Absolutely.

AgCareers.com received more than 2,500 new applicants, and more than 7,000 applications were processed in December 2016.  Consider everyone’s hectic schedules of holiday parties, gatherings, school events, and preparations for the season. This busy time provides an opportunity to evaluate candidates’ ability to juggle multiple responsibilities.  Candidates that make time to search and apply during this season are likely to be dedicated, ready-to-work potential employees.   

Update and simplify

Use this as a reason to update and simplify your job descriptions. An effective job posting is clear and concise. Formatting matters, so make good use of bullets, paragraphs, and bolding. When candidates are already experiencing the joy and frenzy of the season, the simpler and easier to read job postings are more likely to catch their attention.

Also, be considerate of holidays when you are following up with candidates. Response times and scheduling interviews may be a bit more challenging during the season, but certainly worth your time to keep up your recruitment efforts and start 2018 off on the right foot.   

If you take a “hiring holiday” now, you may miss some of the most qualified talent.  Continue your recruiting at www.AgCareers.com.