Hiring temporary employees, is one of the most popular approaches employers use, to deal with staffing problems. Back in the day, it was an avenue for filling the gap whenever an employee was on leave, or to increase the workforce seasonally, when high production was required. But presently, employers turn to temp agencies to meet their staffing needs, and not just when there is a shortage of labor. So what exactly should an employer look for when hiring temporary labor?

Ability to self-start

During some occasions, when temporary labor is needed, there is usually limited time to spend training a new guy. Due to this, a temporary employee should possess the skills to get things going with minimum orientation, so that they can adapt, and start contributing to the business.

Adaptability

In addition to self-starting, the temporary worker should also be able to adapt quickly to the new environment. Since they may not have a lot of time to spend on each individual assignment, it is vital for them to be able to integrate quickly into the assigned company, with ease, without substantial training or time to settle in.

Enthusiasm

For temporary staff, remaining enthusiastic for a short time, or even over a longer period, may be a challenge. This is due to the nature of being a temp staff member – you are gainfully employed today, but you know that after a few months or perhaps even just a few weeks, the assignment will be over, and you will have to wait for the next available opportunity. This is not like being on probation or in situations, whereby you know that there is good chance to get a permanent job.

Enthusiasm is, therefore, an added advantage for every temp staff, since they will remain positive, and give their best to the company they are working for, though perhaps, for just a short while. It may not be easy to find enthusiastic temp staff, which is why you may want to use the services of a temporary employment agency to get the job done right.