Each week in the United States, an average of 2.4 million temporary and contract employees report to work on behalf of a staffing company. National Staffing Employee Week is a time to recognize and celebrate the vital contributions that temporary workers make to our economy.
- Most of these employees work full-time (73%)
- Six in 10 employees choose a staffing company to fill in the gap between jobs
- Twenty percent say schedule flexibility is the driving force for choosing temporary or contract work
This week, we celebrate temporary and contract workers and say thank you. These individuals provide flexibility and support to businesses across various industries, ensuring that operations run smoothly even during periods of high demand or unexpected challenges. Whether they’re filling in during peak seasons, covering for absent employees, or bringing specialized skills to short-term projects, temporary workers play an essential role in maintaining the agility and resilience of our economy. In other words, their work helps businesses stay competitive.
National Staffing Employee Week serves as a reminder of the positive effect these workers have on both the companies they support and the broader economy.
The Benefits of Temporary and Contract Work
Temporary work provides a pathway for individuals to gain valuable experience, develop new skills, and explore different career opportunities. Let’s take a closer look at some common reasons why people choose to work temporary jobs. Not surprisingly, this decision depends on personal circumstances, career goals, and lifestyle preferences.
Flexibility: Temporary jobs offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and commitment. This can be appealing to individuals who need to balance work with other responsibilities, such as caring for family members, pursuing education, or managing personal projects. The ability to choose when and where to work allows them to maintain a better work-life balance.
Skill Development and Experience: Temporary jobs provide opportunities to gain experience in different industries or roles, making them attractive to individuals looking to build their resumes, explore new career paths, or develop specific skills. For recent graduates or those transitioning into new fields, temporary positions can serve as stepping stones toward permanent employment.
Income During Transitions: Temporary work can be a valuable source of income during periods of transition, such as between permanent jobs, relocating, or while searching for a more suitable long-term position. It provides financial stability without requiring a long-term commitment, making it a practical choice for those in need of immediate employment.
Variety and Exploration: Some individuals enjoy the variety that temporary work offers. By taking on different assignments, they can experience various work environments, meet new people, and learn about different industries. This variety can be stimulating and provide a broader perspective on potential career opportunities.
Opportunities for Permanent Employment: Many temporary jobs can lead to permanent positions if both the employer and employee find the arrangement to be a good fit. Temporary assignments often serve as a trial period, allowing employers to assess a worker’s performance and fit within the company before offering a full-time role.
These factors make temporary work an appealing option for a diverse range of people, from those seeking flexibility to those looking to build their careers or manage life transitions.
How to Choose a Staffing Company
When choosing a staffing company, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure you partner with an agency that aligns with your needs and can effectively support your hiring or job search goals. Here are five things to look for:
Industry Expertise and Specialization: Businesses should look for a staffing company that has a strong understanding of their industry and specializes in the types of roles they’re hiring for or seeking. A specialized agency will have a deeper talent pool and a better grasp of the skills and qualifications needed for a specific field. Job seekers should be familiar with this information as well, allowing them to be confident that the job placement will align with their experience and interests. Peoplelink Staffing Solutions specializes in light industrial, clerical/office, warehouse, distribution, and manufacturing.
Reputation and Track Record: Staffing customers serve both businesses and job seekers. Before selecting an agency, research the staffing company’s reputation by reading reviews, testimonials, and case studies. A company with a proven track record of successfully matching candidates with employers and maintaining long-term client relationships is more likely to deliver high-quality service. Businesses can also ask for references from other companies or professionals who have worked with the agency. Job seekers should check online reviews, ask questions when applying, and consider peer recommendations. Peoplelink Staffing has been consistently recognized with the industry’s most prestigious awards, including ClearlyRated’s Best of Staffing® Satisfaction honors, as well as being named among Forbes America’s Best Temp Staffing Firms.
Screening and Selection Process: Understand the staffing company’s process for screening and selecting candidates. A rigorous vetting process, including background checks, skills assessments, and interviews, ensures that the candidates presented to a business are qualified and well-suited for the role. This process is beneficial to the candidates too, as it increases the likelihood of long-term success. Peoplelink Staffing uses a patented and trademarked, six-step risk evaluation process called Assurelink. This approach was carefully designed to better match candidates to jobs.
Communication and Transparency: Choose a staffing company that values clear, open communication and transparency. This includes being upfront about contract terms and expectations, as well as providing regular updates throughout the hiring process. A good agency should be responsive, willing to listen to your needs, and proactive in addressing any concerns. Peoplelink Staffing continually strives to communicate clearly with each encounter and continually looks for ways to improve both communication processes and channels.
Flexibility and Range of Services: Businesses should consider whether the staffing company offers a range of services that can be tailored to their specific needs, such as temporary, temp-to-perm, direct hire, or project-based staffing. Flexibility in service offerings allows the agency to adapt to changing requirements, whether to fill short-term gaps, manage seasonal demand, or find long-term talent. Peoplelink Staffing can fulfill a wide range of job statuses and has the expertise and infrastructure to offer an assortment of services.
Peoplelink Staffing Solutions Says, Thank You!
As we celebrate National Staffing Employee Week, it’s important to reflect on the vital contributions of temporary and contract workers. Their contributions are key to the success of countless businesses, and their impact reverberates through the economy. These professionals often step into roles that demand immediate expertise and commitment, ensuring that businesses can navigate challenges and seize opportunities without missing a beat.
Let’s carry forward this spirit of appreciation throughout the year, continually recognizing the essential role these workers play in our workforce.
If you’re a job seeker ready to explore a role in the exciting and ever-changing world of temporary and contract work, please connect with us today!
If you’re a business looking for workforce solutions, we’d love to hear from you and get started on a customized plan.
