Temporary staffing can be a useful option for both job seekers and employers, but misconceptions can sometimes prevent people from considering it. Whether you’re looking for work or trying to fill an open position, understanding how temporary staffing works can help you make a more informed decision.
Here are several common temporary staffing myths and what you should know instead.
Temporary Staffing Myths for Job Seekers
Myth: Temporary Staffing Agencies Don’t Care About Career Growth
LaborWorks works to match job seekers with positions based on their skills, experience, interests, and availability.
Temporary work can also provide an opportunity to gain experience, develop skills, and explore different industries. If you’re looking for flexibility in your employment, 3 Reasons Why Flexibility Is Key in Temporary Staffing explores some of the ways temporary work can accommodate changing schedules and employment goals.
Myth: Temporary Work Can’t Lead to Full Time Employment
A temporary position does not automatically mean the job will remain temporary. The original LaborWorks article notes that some employers ultimately hire workers into full time positions.
There is no guarantee that a temporary assignment will become permanent, but workers can use the opportunity to demonstrate their skills, reliability, and willingness to learn.
Myth: Temporary Assignments Only Last a Day or Two
The length of a temporary assignment depends on the employer’s needs. Assignments can vary from short term work to longer placements.
Businesses may use temporary workers to address seasonal demand, employee absences, changing workloads, or other staffing needs. This means the duration of an assignment can vary significantly.
Temporary Staffing Myths for Employers
Myth: Temporary Staffing Agencies Don’t Screen Workers
LaborWorks states that it completes the application process and background screening before sending workers to a jobsite.
Screening can help businesses find workers who meet the requirements of a particular assignment. LaborWorks also provides additional information about its screening process on its staffing services page.
Myth: You Can’t Permanently Hire a Temporary Worker
Temporary staffing does not necessarily prevent an employer from hiring a worker permanently.
In some circumstances, a temporary assignment can give an employer the opportunity to evaluate a worker’s skills and fit within the organization before considering longer term employment. Any transition to permanent employment depends on the employer and the circumstances of the assignment.
Myth: Temporary Staffing Is Too Expensive
Temporary staffing does involve a service cost, but businesses should consider the overall costs and resources involved in recruiting and hiring employees directly.
The original article cited a specific average direct cost for hiring an employee. Because that figure is dated and the source for the calculation is not provided in the original article, it is better not to rely on that statistic today.
Instead, businesses should consider the broader costs associated with recruiting, screening, hiring, onboarding, payroll, and maintaining a permanent position when determining whether temporary staffing makes sense for their needs.
For a closer look at this decision, read When Temporary Staffing Makes More Sense Than Permanent Hiring.
Temporary Staffing Can Provide Flexibility
Temporary staffing gives businesses another way to respond when workforce requirements change. Companies can use temporary workers to supplement their teams during periods of increased demand or other short term staffing needs.
For job seekers, temporary assignments can provide opportunities to gain experience, explore different types of work, and find employment that fits their availability.
Businesses looking for staffing in Oregon can connect with LaborWorks to discuss their workforce needs.
Get the Facts About Temporary Staffing
Temporary staffing is not limited to one type of worker, employer, or employment situation. The right staffing arrangement depends on the needs of the business and the goals and qualifications of the worker.
LaborWorks helps connect businesses with workers and job seekers with employment opportunities. Whether you need additional workforce support or you’re looking for your next job, understanding how temporary staffing works can help you determine whether it’s a good fit.
For more information about the potential benefits for businesses, read How Temporary Staffing Agencies Can Help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can temporary work lead to a permanent job?
Yes, a temporary worker may eventually be hired by the employer for a permanent position. However, permanent employment is not guaranteed and depends on the employer and individual circumstances.
How long do temporary assignments last?
Assignment length varies according to the employer’s staffing needs. Some assignments may be short term, while others may continue for weeks or longer.
Do staffing agencies screen temporary workers?
LaborWorks states that it completes the application process and background screening before sending workers to a jobsite.
Is temporary staffing only useful for seasonal work?
No. Businesses can use temporary staffing for a variety of workforce needs, including seasonal demand, employee absences, changing workloads, and other situations requiring additional workers.
Is temporary staffing expensive for employers?
Temporary staffing involves a service cost, but the overall value depends on the employer’s specific needs and the costs associated with recruiting and hiring workers directly. Businesses should evaluate the complete cost and benefit of each staffing approach.