Unfortunately, when we think of temp staff, we focus on what that word means—temporary—and don’t always give these staff members our best consideration.
However, building up an environment that is more welcoming will keep temps coming back, and keep you from having to fill that vacancy again. Here are some tips for creating a temp-friendly worksite from all of us here at Labor Solutions.
Keep Morale Up
There’s a delicate balance to bringing on new staff, even temp workers. There has to be enough work to go around to justify the expense of another employee while making sure your existing staff doesn’t feel like they’re getting hours cut. You don’t want your staff overworked, but you also don’t want them sitting around.
Train Them Right
Don’t throw your temp workers to the wolves. Make sure you take the time to adequately train them to be successful. If this means bringing them on a little before your busy season hits, it might be worth the extra expense. Also, consider pairing them with a seasoned staff member as a mentor of sorts, someone your new staff can go to to be pointed in the right direction. As a bonus, this lets you give some of your long-term employees a chance to “try on” a supervisory role.
Monitor and Give Feedback
Younger employees, a category many temp workers will fall into, have a stronger desire for feedback from employers. Be sure to reinforce desirable performance, rather than just correcting shortcomings. If you find a true ‘shining star’ among your temp workers, be sure to recognize and reward their performance — especially if you may be looking to bring one or more of your temp workers on full-time down the road.
Invite Them Back
When a temp assignment is over, be sure to let those you’d like to have back know they are welcome to return when your busier season comes back around — don’t just assume they know.
