How to Attract the Best Freelance Talent During the Holiday Season

Posted on: Nov 27, 2024

Photo Credit: LightField Studios // Shutterstock

By Steffanie Bradley

It’s that time of year again—when holiday lights are twinkling, production deadlines are looming, and everyone’s calendar is packed. Need some extra hands? Here’s how to find the right talent on a crunch.

Make Your Job Listing Unmissable

Freelancers scrolling through Staff Me Up this time of year are juggling a lot—so your job post needs to grab their attention immediately. Start with a title that’s both clear and compelling. For example:

•Instead of “Editor Needed” try “Editor Needed for High-Energy Holiday Campaign (Quick Turnaround).”

The key is to communicate exactly what your project is, why it’s exciting, and what they’ll gain from taking on the gig.

Don’t leave them guessing about the details. Include the essentials right in the listing:

Dates: Is the gig happening next week or next year? Be specific.

Pay Range: Freelancers are making quick decisions; knowing the budget upfront helps them say yes faster.

Location: Clearly state if it’s in-person or remote.

When your listing is complete and well-thought-out, you’ll immediately stand out to professionals who don’t have time to decode vague job descriptions.

Sweeten the Deal for Holiday Hires

Offering a little extra incentive during the holiday season can go a long way.

Think about what makes your gig appealing. Can you offer flexible hours or remote options? If it’s a short project, highlight that—it may appeal to someone who wants it and is traveling for the holidays.

Holiday bonuses are also a great motivator. Maybe it’s a slight bump in pay or a wrap gift. Even small gestures can leave a big impression and make freelancers more eager to work with you.

Keep Things Moving

Freelancers move fast. If your hiring process doesn’t, you risk losing top candidates to other gigs.

To streamline your process:

Set clear criteria upfront: Know exactly what you’re looking for in terms of skills, experience and availability.

Prioritize portfolios: A quick scan of past work will often tell you more than a lengthy application.

Communicate quickly: If you’re interested in someone, don’t wait to reach out. Freelancers appreciate timely responses—it shows you’re serious about working with them.

The faster you can lock in your crew, the better your chances of landing the talent you need.

Sell the Experience

Use your job post to show why your project is worth their time.

Is your production team tight-knit and fun to work with? Are you working with a high-profile client or creating something especially creative? Share those details! Freelancers want to know what makes your gig special.

Think Long-Term

Even if this hire is for a one-time gig, think about how you can build a lasting relationship with the freelancers you work with. Holiday projects are a great opportunity to connect with talented people you might want to hire again.

Once the project wraps, ask for feedback and keep their info on file. Treat them well during the job and they’ll be more likely to prioritize working with you again in the future.

And who knows? The freelancer you hire for this holiday gig could become your go-to person for years to come.

Plan for 2025 (Now)

While you’re hiring for the holidays, consider using this time to prep for next year. The connections you make now can set you up for success in January and beyond.

Keep track of what worked (and what didn’t) in your hiring process this season, so you can hit the ground running next time you’re staffing up.

Remember: freelancers have options, but with a thoughtful approach, you can make sure they choose you. And if you treat your team well, you’ll not only pull off a fantastic holiday production—you’ll also build relationships that pay off long after the season ends.

So get out there, post that perfect job on Staff Me Up, and start connecting with the talent who’ll make your project shine!

Ready to hire your ideal production crew? Browse qualified candidates and post your next role on Staff Me Up!

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