"We usually see about 10-20 calls for Santa Claus on Gumtree in November but it picks up in December," says Claire Cobbledick, head of marketing for Gumtree South Africa. Most Clauses are employed by large shopping malls, but Christmas markets and charities are also in need.
"Payment and job descriptions tend to vary, but it is probably the only job description that requires you to be jolly...or that prescribes the size of your waistline for that matter!"
Age is not a factor, although retirees above middle age have the advantage when it comes to fulfilling the role. It is not an easy job, though. "Most Clauses have to work long retail hours for two weeks straight, which includes the holidays and the crowds that come with it. Not to mention the rather warm winter suit..."
That does not deter the candidates though. "These job ads receive a lot of attention - an average of 100 views and 20-40 replies."
According to a Gumtree survey, the average Claus receives about R250 - R500 per day for spreading holiday cheer. "This could include listening to Christmas wishes (and of course, making them come true), chatting to shoppers about promotions and posing for photo ops with little fans."
Aspiring Saint Nicks can apply online. Gumtree also has a charity donation section where volunteers can spread Christmas cheer over the holidays.
