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Contract labor
Do not dial for contract labor as a quick fix to reduce the bottom line or union problems. Managers who bring in contract labor are often not responsible for company profits and are focused only on their fixed costs. Make sure there is a strategic approach to bringing in contract labor that is shared by others in the company.
Contract labor management
There is debate about whether to use contract labor for core competency tasks. To get the best out of contract labor, a company must have a strong management team and a key group of permanent employees with company knowledge. Contract labor works best when used for either long-term or short-term projects, for vacancies, or as part of a strategic plan.
Hiring contract staff
Always check the reputation of the labor hire company. Make sure it has a reputation for sending out committed staff with good presentation and customer-service skills. Ensure your managers know how to prepare detailed briefs which list the qualities and skills required – this will give you a much better chance of getting the right person. Managers need to know how find hire staff, direct them, keep them performing, and measure their performance.
Work safety liability
Always check the labor hire company has an acceptable occupational health and safety policy so that if someone is hurt on your site, it is very clear who wears the obligation.
Relationships with labor hire firms
Establish a long-term relationship with the labor hire company. This means the labor hire company can get to know your requirements and strategic goals and you do not need to reinvent the wheel every time you require staff.
Responsibility
Accept that labor supply companies are the only companies in the world where the product has its own mind. Even the best plans can go array. Understand a person coming in can not be everything to everyone. Everyone needs direction.
Relating to contract staff
While you need to treat a worker from a labor hire company with respect, it is a mistake to develop a long-term relationship with them. The relationship is based on productivity. You are not there to improve their skills or attitudes.
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