Why Staffing Agencies Are Suddenly So Popular
Staffing agencies have seen an unprecedented surge in popularity as a result of current economic stagnation. They offer pre-screened, pre-qualified staff with no long-term commitment required; and, that is just what employers need. There is absolutely no shortage of qualified workers; and, you don't need to spending some time and money sifting through resumes to get them.
Employers are usually delighted to hand over the recruitment process to another agency. They are literally swamped with resumes. The time and money it takes to undergo them and the resulting interviews can seriously disrupt other critical duties.
Temporary agencies have already been popular during economic downturns because the first one was started in 1946. Now, they are even more popular since they offer more forms of workers than ever. Not merely administrative staff and general labor can be found, but specialists are aswell. Qualified professionals like medical and legal staff can be found on short notice.
With our economic future unsure, creating a commitment to additional staff could be daunting. With an agency, staff can be brought on as temporary, temp-to-perm, long and short-term contract, or as direct hire. Which might be a big relief. Workers can be evaluated on the job while economic stability is waited out. There are a variety of services available to painlessly grow business without the risk associated hiring a normal employee.
Staffing agencies are the experts. In line with the Houston Chronicle, "Employees of staffing agencies generally have an increased level of expertise related to job knowledge, employment trends and recruitment practices by virtue of continuous placement of employees." Staffing agency selection guide is frequently unmatched within HR departments and is particularly useful in specialized fields. Staffing agencies can manage the complete employment process, freeing up both financial and human resources.
In the past, it had been only larger corporations that considered staffing agencies for help. There is a preconceived notion that small businesses could not afford temporary staff rates. It is simply not true. Instead of going for a chance on hiring full-time employees, your small business can greatly reap the benefits of temporary staff. You can't contend with a skeleton staff; and, you don't need to. Plus, you can avoid the costs associated with pre-employment testing, background checks, and drug screening. Atlanta Medical Recruiter Gail Abelman of Staffing Perfection says, "The firms we staff save thousands of dollars every year through the elimination of many recruitment fees from their budget."
Because the economy gets stronger, my prediction is that staffing agencies will continue steadily to thrive. They have stepped up to the plate in times of need and exceeded expectations. They have carved out a niche that goes far beyond their historic role. It is no longer just about getting a secretary to fill in throughout a regular employee's vacation or short leave. They offer a practical service that practically every business can benefit from.
Staffing agencies are popular because they are an immediate solution and a forward strategy. Employers can test the waters in a time and cost-effective manner, before fully investing in a larger staff. In the meantime, it's business as usual.