How to address the holiday season staffing issues

The holiday season often brings about staffing challenges for companies. These challenges can lead to lower productivity, increased leave requests, and even post-holiday resignations. 

To maintain a smooth operation during this crucial period, retailers need to explore HR strategies and solutions to overcome these common issues.

Read: What are the key workplace conflicts and workers' rights challenges in Southeast Asia?

Unemployment Stats: Philippines and Singapore 

In August 2023, the Philippines saw a significant drop in unemployment, falling to 4.4% from the previous year's 5.3%. The number of jobless individuals decreased from 2.68 million in August 2022 to 2.21 million.

Employment rose to 48.07 million from 47.87 million, with the services sector leading at 57.3%, followed by agriculture (24.5%) and industry (18.2%). The labor force participation rate slightly declined from 66.1% to 64.7%. 

Singapore's unemployment rate remained low in April 2023, with an overall rate of 1.8%. Among residents, it was 2.6%, and for citizens, slightly higher at 2.8%. There were 63,000 unemployed residents, including 56,300 citizens.

Holiday season staff shortages

When a business is short-staffed, it means there don't seem to be enough employees to cover all the necessary shifts or positions.

This issue can arise from various reasons, such as an unexpected increase in business, employees leaving without sufficient notice, or unplanned absences. 

The retail sector is particularly affected by this problem, as it relies on having an adequate number of staff to ensure smooth operations.

Read: How can fostering work friendships enhance productivity and happiness in the workplace?

Managing retail workforce during Holidays

Being short-staffed results in poor customer service and decreased employee morale. Overworked employees may experience increased stress and dissatisfaction, leading to higher turnover rates that impact a retailer's bottom line. 

To address these issues, businesses can consider long-term solutions.

1. Invest in Retail Training: Equipping employees with proper product knowledge and soft skills can improve efficiency, increasing revenue, morale, and productivity. This, in turn, can help balance the long-term benefits of retaining staff.
2. Revise Employee Schedules: Especially during peak seasons, rotating schedules can provide flexibility without leaving gaps in shifts. Prioritisation skills are also crucial, as overworking employees often result from trying to do too much with too few resources. Prioritising the most critical tasks and delegating the rest can help businesses maintain employee satisfaction and retention.
3. Enhance Employee Benefits: Improved health insurance plans, retirement options, mental health support, and paid leave can make open positions more appealing. These benefits can help businesses attract and retain the best employees, reducing turnover rates and ensuring better employee morale.

Solutions for Holiday season staffing issues

• One way to address staffing challenges is to partner with colleges and local organisations to create job pathways. Developing these relationships can provide a pipeline of qualified employees ready to join the workforce. Retailers can also explore automation and technology to support staff, making it easier for employees to cover shifts when needed.
• Offering competitive wages is an excellent strategy to retain productive employees. It also helps boost employee morale, reduce turnover rates, and mitigate staffing shortages. Temporary hires during the holiday season can be beneficial, allowing retailers to navigate the busiest months without hiring long-term employees.

Read: 7 Types of Employees at Work During the Holiday Season

During the holiday season, it's more than staffing that companies need to manage. They also have to navigate different employee personalities:

1. The Christmas Enthusiast: This employee is all about holiday cheer and might even insist on festive office decorations.
2. The Grinch: On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Grinch despises all things holiday-related.
3. The Work Avoider: This employee is more interested in watching Christmas movies than working.
4. The Party Planner: Often tasked with organising office festivities, this person knows every event vendor in town.
5. The Perfectionist: This individual wants everything done perfectly, from decorations to Secret Santa participation.
6. The 'December's like any other month': Some employees are indifferent to the holiday season.
7. The Restless HR: The HR department is often busy sending holiday wishes and organising employee activities to spread cheer.

Companies must be prepared to manage this diverse group of employees during the holiday season while addressing staffing challenges.

By implementing effective HR strategies and considering the long-term benefits of retaining staff, businesses can ensure a successful and profitable holiday season.