Temp Staffing: Driving Jobs Growth (And Why Your Company Should Utilize It)

Given the current state of the Canadian economy and job market, why is temporary staffing a smart approach for your company?

Demand for short-term employees has grown across the nation and temp positions could become the norm for the millennial generation. They can positively and profitably affect your business results. The key is to have a well-thought-out contingent workforce strategy. Determine which functions and skill sets are “must haves” in-house and then leverage your external resources for the rest.

The Canadian Staffing Picture

Demand for temporary staffing grew by 15 percent during the second quarter of this year. Full-time jobs rose just 0.2 percent between June 2013 and June 2014, while part-time jobs increased by a full percentage point.

  • Slow job growth attributed to continued economic uncertainty fostered the temporary employment trend. Specifically, temporary blue-collar workers are in high demand, with a 40 percent jump from the first quarter of this year to the second.
  • Western Canada has seen the most significant increases in temporary white-collar jobs. This segment grew by 18 percent over a one-year period.
  • Overall, the nation’s job market is changing from traditional tenure positions toward freelance, contract and temporary work. Young people entering the workforce are more receptive to these jobs and less inclined to “settle in” to a single company for the duration of their career.

Good for Employers

Temporary work assignments are budget friendly as workers’ agencies – versus employers – provide benefits and handle payroll and related costs. With a national unemployment rate of 7.1 percent, there is a robust temporary employment talent pool in Canada.

  • Recent election results have contributed to the continued instability of the national economy. This has resulted in many businesses taking a conservative approach to spending and hiring. There is a hesitancy to permanently grow staff until the effects of new legislation play out.

Among the additional advantages to hiring temporary workers are:

  • Specialized expertise and quick ramp up: Some projects require talent that you simply don’t have in-house. A well-qualified temp often comes up to speed more quickly than a permanent hire.
  • Fresh perspectives: New talent means new ideas. Your temp may have experience with a marquee organization, which translates to an invaluable contribution to your organization.
  • Try before you buy: Having a temp is a perfect opportunity to watch, evaluate and get to know an individual on the job before you make a permanent commitment to bringing them on board.

Good for Employees

Temporary work assignments are ideal for some workers, as they provide knowledge, experience and contacts that can assist them in defining their ultimate career path. They learn from you and your organization while at the same time, you benefit from their professional insights and contributions.

By partnering with a niche agency that specializes in temporary placement, you can build a long-term relationship and more readily meet your short-and long-term staffing needs. To learn more, read our related posts or contact Employment Professionals Canada today. We look forward to working with you!