Holiday hiring: 7 tips to help you snag a seasonal spot

With many retailers already hunting for holiday help, now is the time to start applying for seasonal positions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate as of September was 9.6%. With so many unemployed, the competition for a holiday job is stiff. Here are seven ways to pull ahead of other applicants and land a seasonal gig:

1. Polish your resume: Before even beginning the application process, touch up that resume. Make it clear and organized. Since holiday retail jobs focus on pleasing shoppers, make sure to highlight any previous experience in customer service. Websites such as How to Write a Resume serve as informative guides.