To be sure that short-term workers hit the ground running and contribute meaningfully to your organization, you need to have an onboarding plan in place. Unlike permanent employees, temp workers have a limited time to familiarize themselves with their roles and the company environment.
The employment experts at Staffing Network have quality hires available when you need them for short or long-term assignments. They can also share strategies with you on how to maximize the potential of temp workers.
1. Provide Job Descriptions
A well-defined job description sets the foundation for a successful onboarding process. Ensure that temp workers receive a detailed outline of their responsibilities, expectations, and goals. Break down tasks into manageable steps and provide examples or templates if possible. Clearly communicating what is expected helps workers understand their role within the team and reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings.
2. Offer an Orientation
Even though temp workers might be with your company for a short duration, a thorough orientation is still an important part of introducing an individual to an organization. Provide an overview of the company’s mission, values, and culture. Explain the organizational structure and introduce key team members. Creating a checklist of topics to cover during the orientation can help in ensuring consistency and comprehensiveness.
3. Define Workspace and Resources
Show temporary staff where essential facilities like restrooms, break rooms, and emergency exits are located. This helps them feel more comfortable and settled in their new environment. Then hone in on exactly where they will be working, and be sure to provide them with a clean, organized workspace, and any equipment or tools they need. Clearly label and explain how to use shared resources such as printers, copiers, and software systems.
4. Assign a Point of Contact
Having a go-to person for questions and guidance can significantly enhance the onboarding experience for temp workers. Assigning a point of contact within the team ensures that temp workers have someone they can approach without hesitation. This person can provide insights into daily routines, team dynamics, and help troubleshoot any issues that arise. Choose someone who is approachable, knowledgeable, and patient. Regular check-ins can help address concerns promptly and keep the onboarding process on track.
5. Encourage Open Communication
Promote an environment where temp workers feel comfortable asking questions and seeking clarification. Encourage them to share feedback about their onboarding experience, and be open to making adjustments based on their input. Of course, workplaces are busy and there may not be time for long meetings, but you can utilize tools like chat platforms or emails to maintain open lines of communication.
By providing detailed job descriptions, thorough orientations, defined workspaces, mentors, and fostering open communication, you create an environment where temp workers can thrive. Remember, the clearer the instructions and expectations, the more confident and productive your short-term hires will be.
Do you need more hands on deck at your business? The professionals at Staffing Network, a full-service staffing and recruiting firm that specializes in light/skilled industrial, engineering, and operations professionals, are available to introduce you to high-quality job seekers. Connect with Staffing Network today.
