If you partner with a staffing company, you may know the benefits of utilizing a temporary workforce. But showing up as a temp employee on your first day can be stressful. Finding ways to help gig workers feel comfortable can make or break their success at your business.
With an estimated 50 million people working in the gig economy, most businesses are bound to interact with workers looking for a side hustle in one way or another. In fact, there are several benefits to using gig workers in your day to day operations, including lower hiring costs and less risk.
Depending on your situation, temporary employees may work one shift, or a longer-term assignment. Regardless of the duration of the assignment, you can help ensure the success of gig workers by making sure they feel comfortable on the job, especially on the first day. Here are 4 ways to help gig workers feel comfortable on their first day:
4 Ways to Help Gig Workers Feel Comfortable on the First Day
1. Provide clear arrival instructions.
Not knowing where to go on your first day can be nerve-racking. The key to help gig workers feel comfortable and show up on-time is by providing clear, concise instructions on how to enter your venue. If possible, offer a phone number for workers to call if they’re having trouble. This is especially useful if your shifts are early in the morning or later at night. For example, provide details that say “enter through the grey door with 101 on it to the left of the main entrance” rather than just “enter through the grey door”.
2. Be detailed with the job description.
Gig workers are a diverse group, ranging in skill levels of all types. While this is an upside to the gig economy, it means that job descriptions should be specific, so you’ll attract the person who’s the best fit for the job. Even small details, such as cleaning up at the end of the event, should be included.
3. Introduce them to other team members.
A great way to help gig workers feel comfortable on their first day is by introducing them to other team members. Having someone they can go to with questions will put their minds at ease. Plus, who doesn’t like to see a friendly face at work?
4. Give them feedback.
Don’t be shy about sharing constructive feedback with workers. Each client may have different requirements, so showing employees ‘your way of doing things’ will make them more knowledgeable about operations.
It’s expected that by 2020, half of the U.S. workforce will join the gig economy. If your organization is considering utilizing this diverse and talented group of workers, make sure to help gig workers feel comfortable and it will pay off for both of you in the long run.
Did you know that LGC offers several staffing solutions? They’re customized to fit any hiring needs, whether you need a worker for one day or are looking to make a permanent addition to your team. Learn more by chatting with our team—email us at info@lgcassociates.com.