Early preparation is key to a successful peak season. With ongoing labor market shifts, evolving supply chain demands and increased customer expectations, early preparation gives your business the edge it needs.
Starting now means more time to assess your workforce needs, secure reliable employees and ensure a smooth and successful season, without the last-minute stress.
Start preparing for peak season now with the following guidelines.
Invest in a quality applicant tracking tool
With more people looking for work, you could see an overwhelming amount of applications, which means an overwhelming amount of work for your hiring team. An applicant tracking system (ATS) cuts down the time of manually sifting through resumes to automatically find the most qualified candidates for you.
With many systems today, you can also automate the process of posting jobs, setting up interviews, and sending follow up emails to candidates. If you do not already have one, a good ATS is worth looking into – both for now and in the long-term.
Working with a trusted staffing partner means you can leverage their applicant software systems that not only hire the best people but manage them as well. At SIMOS we use Stafftrack, a proprietary hiring and workforce management tool that brings in the right people at the right time.
Adjust your hiring and onboarding process
Today’s workforce expects a seamless digital experience, starting with the hiring process. Virtual interviews are a great way to connect with candidates quickly and efficiently, especially when timing is tight or your team is across locations.
Ensure your hiring managers have the right tools and training to conduct professional video interviews. The same applies to onboarding: digitize your training materials and consider using live video sessions to simulate hands-on experience, helping new hires succeed from day one.
Put safety at the forefront
In today’s hiring landscape, safety is more than a requirement; it’s a key factor in attracting and retaining talent. Candidates want to know that your company takes their well-being seriously.
Be proactive: ensure your team is equipped with the right tools, training, and resources to stay safe and productive on the job. A strong safety culture not only protects your workforce, it strengthens your reputation with clients and candidates alike.
Don’t forget about employee engagement
Peak season can bring fast-paced demands, but that doesn’t mean employee engagement should take a back seat. Schedule regular check-ins with your workforce to ensure they feel supported and have the tools they need to succeed.
Consider offering wellness perks and additional support programs to help employees stay energized, focused and motivated. These efforts not only boost productivity but also show that your company values its people, which helps you stand out in a competitive job market.
While careful planning goes a long way, unexpected challenges can still arise. If you’re unsure how to navigate peak season with confidence, partnering with a staffing expert like SIMOS can make all the difference. We’re here to help you scale smart, meet demand, and keep your operation running strong, through peak season and beyond.
