Many young workers, like Georges and Cloé, see seasonal work as an opportunity for a break without a long-term commitment. This lifestyle allows them to experience different professional environments and confirm their career goals while enjoying the pleasant environment and outdoor activities at the resort.
Cloé, 27, joined the Chamrousse resort in Isère for a position in a high-altitude restaurant after finishing her studies. Being a seasonal worker allowed her to try out different roles and decide if she wanted to pursue them further. She found that catering wasn’t for her while working at the resort, despite her initial interest. However, she enjoyed the friendships she formed with other seasonal workers and took advantage of the discounts on ski passes and lessons to explore the mountain lifestyle.
Seasonal workers like Marion, 24, often take a break from job hunting to work at a resort. Marion, who has a Master 2 degree in marketing communication and CSR, couldn’t find a job that interested her before joining the resort. She wanted to take time to think about her career while enjoying the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities at the resort. Seasonal workers often get discounted ski passes and lessons, which makes it easier for them to enjoy their time on the slopes.
The resort atmosphere creates a sense of camaraderie among seasonal workers like George and Axelle. They formed strong bonds with their colleagues through shared outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. While working at the resort has its perks like accommodation and social events, some workers struggle with the demands of the job and the lifestyle it entails. However, many seasonal workers find fulfillment in their experiences and enjoy being part of such a close-knit community.
Despite its challenges like financial instability and lifestyle difficulties, many young workers are drawn to seasonal work because it gives them freedom from long-term commitments while allowing them to explore different career paths or pursue personal interests such as travel or outdoor adventures.
According to research conducted by various organizations such as The National Association of Mayors of Mountain Resorts (NAOMM), there are approximately 120,000 direct jobs available each winter in resorts across North America alone.
Furthermore, there are approximately 300,000 indirect jobs associated with these resorts during peak seasons.
These numbers highlight just how popular seasonal work is becoming among young people looking for opportunities outside of traditional employment structures.
In conclusion, seasonal work offers young people an opportunity for adventure while providing valuable skills they can use in their future careers or personal lives. While there may be some downsides like financial instability or challenging lifestyles involved with this type of work, many young people find fulfillment in their experiences at resorts that they wouldn’t have found elsewhere.
