Four things you should know about seasonal work in 2021

1.Seasonal work has many benefits

Firstly, there are many good reasons to consider seasonal work. It can help you to learn new skills, try out a new career, open up new opportunities and meet new people. It is also a great way to spend time abroad while being paid for the experience!

Seasonal work can help you get valuable experience without a long-term commitment, so it is a great option if you are a student or a young person looking for a fixed-term job over the summer.

Many employers need more staff during this peak season, so they will be happy for you to come and work for them for a short period and then return home afterwards.

2.Opportunities will be available

Of course, this past year has been unusual for everyone. You might worry that seasonal jobs will not be available due to COVID-19, but it is likely that employers will still be looking for seasonal staff.

Most seasonal jobs are in sectors like tourism, hospitality, entertainment and agriculture. These sectors are really important for the EU’s economy, so we can expect them to increase activity when it is safe to do so.

Provided places like hotels, holiday resorts, restaurants and bars are able to re-open before the summer, they will need to quickly recruit ahead of the busy summer period. If so, you might be the person they are looking for!

3.You have rights as a seasonal worker in the EU

As a seasonal worker, you have the right to the same, fair working conditions as local workers. This includes aspects such as pay, working hours and health and safety.

The EU has also recently called on its Member States to better protect seasonal workers. For example, your workplace should have suitable distancing and hygiene measures to protect you against the risks of COVID-19.

You might find that some smaller workplaces do not offer you a formal contract when you start, but do not let them take advantage. Remember your rights as a seasonal worker and make it clear that you expect your employer to stick to your agreement.

Check out the Living & Working section of the EURES portal to find information about accommodation or schools, taxes, cost of living, health, social legislation and comparability of qualifications for the country you are interested in.

4.The situation is changing all the time

If you are going abroad – even for work – you should keep checking the travel guidelines and restrictions in your home country and the country you are travelling to. Re-open EU is a great tool to keep you up to date on the latest travel advice.

People are now being vaccinated across Europe, but some countries are further along with this than others. This might also affect how quickly places like restaurants, hotels, bars, festivals and tourist attractions can reopen.

Most of all, it is hard to predict what will happen next with this virus, so try to be flexible and sensible. Stay open to different opportunities and have a back-up plan in case the situation changes.

We hope this article offered you some useful tips about seasonal work in 2021. For more information on opportunities abroad, contact your local EURES Adviser today.

In partnership with EURES, the European Job Mobility Portal.

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