McDonald's Canada, the billions-served fast-food eatery, planned to hire 4,000 new Canadian staff as part of its April 19 National Hiring Day. Fifty thousand new employees were hired in the United States simultaneously on the same day.
The company says it is making a concerted effort to add staff as its business improves and more of its restaurants stay open longer. The company's hiring goal translates to between three and four hires per restaurant.
"We're one of the largest employers of youth. Our business is growing," said Louis Payette, national media director. "More of our restaurants are open late or are open 24 hours. Last year we had our best year ever."
The one-day hiring binge allowed candidates to apply for positions online via the company website or enter participating McDonald's restaurants for an impromptu job interview. Those who are still interested can apply in stores or online. McDonald's is hiring restaurant crew and management for full-time and part-time jobs.
Reports indicate that sales growth, particularly in Asia, Africa and the Middle East, saw 2010 sales increase 5 per cent to $24 billion, a record high for the company. With over 14,000 North American locations and a combined 400,000 staff, McDonald's has set aside $518 million in wages for its new employees.
Turnover slowed the past few years because of the weak economy, the company said. McDonald's sees this event as an opportunity to attract employees in a tough job market. It is also trying to shed the negative connotation of employment at the fast-food chain. McDonald's says about half of its franchise owners and 75 per cent of its managers started in entry-level jobs at McDonald's.
from Western Investor, May 2011
