Whether you’re looking for a little extra spending money or a job to keep you busy through the holidays, many retailers, shipping businesses, restaurants and catering companies are hiring. Your Better Business Bureau says start your search early to help your chances of landing a seasonal job.

Employers stepped up hiring in October and added 171,000 people to their payrolls last month, according to the U.S. Labor Department. The National Retail Federation (NRF) says retailers will hire between 585,000 to 625,000 seasonal employees this year. Last year, 607,000 employees were hired for the holidays. Including those who work in shipping and other industries, total seasonal hiring is expected to reach 700,000. The NRF expects holiday sales this year to be up 4.1 percent.

Your Better Business Bureau offers these seasonal job search tips:

• Make sure you start as early as possible. Identify companies you’d like to work for and begin the application process.

• Consider getting a job where you shop. You’ll be familiar with the business and its products. Also, you’ll get discounts as much as 20-40 percent as a seasonal employee.

• Treat this job search like you’d do any other. Dress appropriately and have your resume up-to-date. Be prepared to be interviewed on the spot.

• Be flexible. Seasonal employees are expected to work long hours, weekends, nights and even on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve. If, this is a second job, tell the employer what hours you’re available.

• Share your strengths and job knowledge with potential employers.

• Inquire about full-time work. Many companies keep a small percentage of seasonal workers as permanent employees. So, stand out and make your manager aware you’re looking for a permanent position.

Remember, if you’re looking for a trustworthy employer to work for, you can always contact your BBB to check out businesses you’re considering. For more advice on finding a seasonal job, as well as making it through the holidays on a budget, visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.