Are you hunting for holiday work?
SPRINGFIELD, Ore. - Kim Waltman spends his Tuesday morning filling out a job application at Target.
It's the same way he's spent almost every morning for the past year and half after getting laid off.
"I can't seem to find anything to support my family," said Waltman. "I have over 30 years of customer service experience, I have cashier experience, I have janitorial service.'
With a full resume, he's one of thousands in Lane County hoping to find seasonal work.
"Christmas is coming around the corner, and right now I feel like we're not going to have a good Christmas because I have no money," said Waltman.
Competition is fierce in this holiday job market.
Nicole Tucker, Executive Team Lead of Human Resources for Target, said they have very few positions available, but anywhere from six to 20 people apply daily. She said she's looking for those who standout.
"Having a background of Target is always a plus - if they can be able to speak to our business and know what we stand for," said Tucker. "We're always looking for fast, fun, friendly and outgoing people."
No matter the job, experts say you want to be marketable.
"Be prepared to talk about yourself, to promote your skills, and also talk about how you've worked," said Kim Thompson, assistant manager, WorkSource Lane employment center.
- "When can you start?" "TODAY!" Have open availability to increase your chances of getting hired.
- BE AN ELF Look for positions at big box retailers, package handling services, security firms, restaurants and hotels. This holiday season is typically their busiest time of year.
- BING GOOGLE YAHOO "JOBS" Checkout Web sites like Monster and Craigslist for job opportunities.
- LEARN FROM YOUR MISTAKES Hold practice interviews with family and friends before the real deal.
- ME AGAIN Most importantly: be persistent.
"I'm still trying," said Waltman.
