As the holiday season approaches, local businesses are beefing up staff to prepare for the influx of customers, clients and visitors.
No matter where applicants are looking, the common denominator employers seek is that employees have good attitudes, work hard and are customer-service-oriented.
Kroger’s Atlanta Division, for one, is hosting job fairs at all of its area stores from 1-5 p.m. Saturday, offering opportunities for those interested in positions as baggers, cashiers, clerks and the bakery department.
“We look forward to hiring many hard-working, customer-centered associates who are committed to creating exceptional and unique shopping experiences for our customers this holiday season,” said Glynn Jenkins, director of communications and public relations for Kroger’s Atlanta Division.
North Georgia Premium Outlets in Dawsonville recently held a job fair, as well, in which about 30 retailers spoke with applicants about employment opportunities.
“They’re looking for customer-service-oriented people with great personalities ... who can help us spread that holiday spirit and magic,” said Shelley Korenbrot, director of marketing and business development with North Georgia Premium Outlets.
She said those looking for a job at the outlets can visit the guest services area in the Food Pavilion. Korenbrot added that being bilingual is also a plus when applying for any position at the outlet mall.
In addition, the department store Belk is hiring 5,800 seasonal employees nationwide. There is a local store inside Lakeshore Mall. Applicants can visit www.belk.com/careers.
“This is an incredible opportunity for motivated people to join a growing company,” said Eric Bass, senior vice president of staffing and productivity at Belk. “You can be part of a team that serves thousands of Belk customers during the busy holiday season.”
Added Bass: “Whether you’re looking to earn extra money for the next few months or start the next phase of your career, this is a great opportunity.”
Lanier Islands is hiring nearly 300 people to fill jobs at its Winter Adventure attraction, which is open Nov. 20 through Feb. 15.
Job openings include those for gate attendants, retail sales, servers and snow groomers. Yes — snow groomers.
That particular job involves working with snow blowers, shovels and rakes to move snow into the appropriate places, according to Cindy Wahl, electronic marketing manager with the resort in South Hall County. Snow will be in the wave pool, Fun Dunker area and Wiggle Waves.
“It will be very similar to LanierWorld water park,” Wahl said. “The rides, slides and attractions have been re-engineered, though. Instead of going down the slides on water, you’re going down on sleds and snow.”
The annual Magical Nights of Lights display also will return this year.
For more information about seasonal and year-round positions at Lanier Islands, visit www.lanier
islands.com/careers.