Too many companies think they can call up a staffing service, “order up some temps,” greet the temporary worker at the door the next day, and be done with it.

Of course, you can do this. But to truly get the most out of your temporary workers, a little effort on your part can go a long way.

To truly get the most out of your company’s temporary workforce, read the tips offered below.

• As with any hire, a good temporary worker starts with a good, clear job description. Work with your staffing services’ manager to ensure that he or she has a solid understanding of what the work entails and the skills critical to succeeding within it. Don’t just hand the staffing manager a job description; instead, talk it over with the manager and be open to changing the description with the staffing manager’s input.
• As you greet the temporary worker, give him or a her a tour of your company. Make sure the individual knows about lunch breaks, where the lunchroom is (if applicable), where the bathrooms are, the corporate policies about using phones or the Internet for personal use, etc.
• Introduce the temporary associate to all of the people he or she will or may come in contact. Make sure your employees understand that the temporary worker is there because you need him or her and that the worker’s contribution and time is to be respected. Avoid referring to the worker at any time to any one as “the temp.” The term denigrates both the individual and his or her contribution.
• Make sure you provide the temporary worker with clear goals and expectations. Is there a chance the job could become one on your company’s payroll? If so, say so. Be open to answering any questions the temporary may have about future opportunities with your company, even if there are none.
• If you do wish to hire the temporary associate on to your payroll, contact your staffing service. If the temporary associate hears of an opening and wishes to apply and you encourage him or her to do so, direct the associate to his or her staffing service, as well.

In a nutshell, treat temporary workers pretty much as you would your regular employees. Doing so shows that your respect them – and thus are likely to get their best work from them. It also helps you look at the associates in a new light: As individuals who might belong on your own payroll someday soon.

Arrow Staffing has been providing Inland Empire companies with great temporary workers for more than 40 years. We know how to source and place great people. Contact us today to learn more.