Bringing on Temporary Staff: Orientation and Training Best Practices

Hiring temporary staff is a way of life for most hiring managers who are strapped with having to quickly fill a gap when regular staffing is not sufficient. And while a temporary worker need not be concerned about a benefits package normally reserved for permanent hires, companies should not cut corners when it comes to the orientation and training of its temporary staff.
Equipping a temporary employee with solid training and orientation is likely to result in quality performance.  Also, when safety is paramount in the workplace, skimping on training increases the risk of something serious happening to people and/or property.
One of the first things to do when considering a temporary worker is to touch base with all managers, supervisors and other employees with whom the temporary will be working. This is the time to identify exactly what the job entails and what kind of skills are desired. Placement agencies are better able to find an ideal candidate when they have a wealth of information about the position.
This also is the time to inform the regular staff about why a temporary worker is coming on board and that their jobs are not in jeopardy.  Open communication should encourage a sense of cooperation and curtail any talk that jobs are being threatened.
Once on board a new temporary worker should be given as much attention as a permanent hire. This is the time to provide information on hours, breaks and lunch schedules, safety regulations, company rules, and who the key contacts are. In a manufacturing setting it is imperative to give a tour of the facility so the individual is familiar with the plant especially as it relates to emergencies.
It is important to make sure the new worker understands what is expected of him or, that the temporary be encouraged to ask questions, and know which individuals can answer those questions.
Supervisors are advised to make periodic visits throughout the day once a temporary staffer is on the job. This not only keeps management apprised of the worker’s progress, it lets the worker know the company cares about how he or she is doing. In fact, studies show that well-managed, motivated temporary employees often become prime candidates for full-time positions.
In some instances, staffing services provide some or all of the required training, so once an individual is placed, he or she is ready to work. In fact, many staffing firms also handle pay rates, training and even changes in job status. In those instances it is recommended that companies deal with the placement agency where there are any questions related to job performance or possible termination.
As for any temporary worker, poor performance should not be tolerated. This is something a hiring agency should handle if applicable.
Regardless of how short a temporary worker will be on the job, comprehensive training and a solid orientation should produce positive results while diminishing unnecessary workplace hazards.
Are you in need of reliable and skilled temporary administrative assistants for your Chicago-area company? Or skilled machinists for your Lake Oswego firm? Then give the Opti Staffing Group a call. We look forward to hearing from you!

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