Finding Part-Time Event Staff - Part 2

1. Recognize spouses or significant others. A caterer who wishes to have the highest level of attendance from staff should show appreciation for those who are left alone while their significant other or family member is working for the caterer. Remember them with a simple note or gift on Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, an anniversary or other special days.

2. Use voicemail or emails to take incoming resumes. Caterers use ads that direct the person searching for new full- or part-time work to call a special number or email a special address. When using the phone, callers are told on a prerecorded message to leave information about their background. This makes it easy for a manager to review the recording and determine if the caller should get a return call for a face-to-face interview. Email is used in the same way.

3. Offer “buddy” job guarantees. Make it easy for friends or family members to work as part-time event staff together. Two brothers may apply for part-time event work and get accepted, then be sent to work two different parties on their first job. That doesn’t make much sense. Working with a friend or family member at the same events guarantees happier and more loyal staff.

4. Use a staff newsletter to communicate. A monthly newsletter sent by email or U.S. mail to all full- and part-time staff is an invaluable tool for providing correct information, schedules and news that pertains to the staff. Some caterers let the staff contribute to the newsletter. A newsletter also can neutralize dangerous gossip.