Businesses, both large and small, hire temporary employees. When a position becomes vacant unexpectedly and you need extra hands on deck so there aren’t any hiccups in day-to-day business, many businesses turn to temps.
Companies use them for various reasons: Corporate mergers, internal reorganizations, major projects, expansion, maternity or disability leave, or large business initiatives.
Temps typically register with a staffing agency that maintains relationships with local businesses. Assignments can last anywhere from a few days to a few months to a few years. Sometimes they are a gateway to a permanent position: It’s a test run to see if they are a good fit for the company.
However, some organizations worry about motivation and drive of temporary hires.
“Temporary employees can pack a lot of punch without the necessary salaries and benefits that are required of full time staff,” says Kelly Gregorio blogger for Advantage Capital Funds and contributor to HRMorning.com.
Gregorio shares some tips for businesses to make the most out of their temporary hires.
Give Them Job Responsibilities
They need more than just a job description. Gregario suggests to let them know what their job responsibilities are in a clear and concise manner. Let them know how important these tasks are.
“No temporary employee wants to feel like they are at the bottom of the totem pole, so make an effort to build them up,” says Gregario.
To do this, offer feedback, provide direction, and give praise when they do a good job.
Include Them
You still want to make sure a temp hire fits into your company culture.
“Get them emotionally invested in your team so during their time with you (regardless of how short it may be) they feel connected to not only the work, but to the company as a whole,” says Gregario.
Invite them to lunches, team meetings, company outings, or even to sign a birthday card.
Offer Perks
Temps don’t get the same perks as permanent or full-time staff. They aren’t eligible for benefits, paid time off, or even a future with the company, Gregario adds. Look for perks that don’t cost you money such as flexible hours or early release on Fridays in the summer.
“By making the effort to fulfill a temp hire, you can kick-start their motivation and keep it going,” says Gregario.
Temporary staffing agencies can quickly help your business with a qualified candidate. To keep them motivated, treat and support them like the same way you do your regular employees.
This article originally appeared on Clear Focus Financial Search.