You've done your homework. You've
listed the job duties and skills. You've researched and contacted
the agency. Your first temp is on the way. What do you do now?
First, organize the work you
want done and determine who is going to train the person. Make
sure adequate supplies are at the workstation. If you have written
instructions for a task, get them out.
Second, greet the person by name
when they arrive at the building. Introduce them to people in
their immediate work vicinity. Show them where the rest room,
coat rack, and storage of personal property areas are.
Third, show them to their workstation.
Make any adjustments to equipment for correct height and flexibility.
Review the procedures for operating equipment. Make sure they
understand the safety rules and procedures.
Fourth, instruct them on what
they are to do. Show them how to do it. Let them do it. Review
the procedures and let them work on their own. Most temps are
highly skilled, have performed a variety of tasks, and are accustomed
to working on their own. Do check back in fifteen to thirty minutes
to see if they have any questions or have found any exceptions.
Fifth, include them at break
and lunch times. Respect their lunch plans the first day. Once
they know your routine, they will respond appropriately.
Sixth, at the end of the day,
review what happened during the day. Answer any questions. If
you are expecting them the next day, let them know what work
you will have for them.
Kathleen Biegel of Garrick Smith
Johnson Nix & Co. has worked for the temp industry many times
during the last ten years. She says the biggest motivator for
her was, "...the degree of respect given because she was
capable of doing the work." Temps normally work under pressure
learning new tasks. They prefer to be busy with steady workflow.
Frequent recognition for doing the work correctly, quickly, and
accurately will keep their performance at a high level.
If the situation is a temp to
perm, let them know of the opportunities for growth your company
offers. Ann Fletcher, recruiter for Legal Resource People, says,
"Most people are looking for full time positions. They are
motivated by the opportunity to learn new skills." Motivators
are knowing the skills you need, the work to be performed, benefits
and future possibilities.
If you are having a company celebration,
include them. Check with the agency concerning holiday pay and
let them know their pay status.
Temp employees are a member of
your team for the duration of their assignment. The sooner you
incorporate them into your work rhythm, the more productive they
will be. By taking the fear out of the new environment, communicating
with them, and respecting their skills you will quickly have
a very productive member of your team.
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By Jan
Smith
(916) 332-7247
email: JSmith@Bennington-
Group.com
Visit Jan
Smith's web site for more ideas to successfully manage your business.
Jan coaches business owners and managers how to balance working
on their business with solving day-to-day issues.
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