If you’ve searched for a job, you’ve likely come across different employment types like temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire. While tricky at first, understanding these terms will help you navigate your next job search. Each employment type has benefits that can help you determine what position is best for your current situation. Use this guide to the three types of employment to find out what’s right for you!
Temporary
A temporary employee is employed by a staffing agency and their assignment can last anywhere from a few weeks to a year or more. Companies opt to hire temp workers to complete special projects, help during busy periods like the holidays, or fill in for employees who are on leave. Temporary work has a target start and end date agreed on by the employee and employer.
Benefits of Temporary Work
- Ability to Explore: As a temporary worker, you are in control of what career move is right for you. Temporary work allows people to explore new career paths without a long-term commitment.
- Gain Experience: Temporary work is a great opportunity to build your resume. If you are in between jobs, temporary work can expand your skillset and limit employment gaps, all while you search for a permanent opportunity.
- Quick Hiring Process: The recruiting process for temporary roles tends to be short and efficient. Staffing agencies work with companies to fill temporary positions as soon as possible and some roles even have immediate start dates.
- Networking Opportunities: Just because a job is temporary doesn’t mean the people you work with have to be. Developing meaningful relationships with those you work with can help you further your professional career.
Temp-to-Hire
A temp-to-hire employee is initially employed by a staffing agency for 3-6 months and may later be offered a permanent position with the company. Companies may want temp-to-hire arrangements because they are seeking a full-time employee, but do not want to make a direct hire right away.
Benefits of Temp-to-Hire Work
- All Benefits of a Temporary Job: Temp-to-hire roles provide the ability to explore careers, experience, networking opportunities, and a quick hiring process just like a temporary job would. Once hired permanently, a temp-to-hire employee can enjoy direct hire benefits.
- Trial Run: Working a temp-to-hire job allows you to try working for a company before being employed there permanently. Knowing first-hand that the company is right for you can ensure that you’ll enjoy the job instead of guessing through job descriptions and interviews.
Direct Hire
A direct hire employee is hired as a full-time, long-term employee with a salary and benefits. While a staffing agency may manage the recruiting, a direct hire will be employed by the company they are interviewing with. Companies use direct hire employees to fill positions that benefit from a long-term commitment, positions that require a niche skillset, and positions at the upper and executive levels. Because direct hire arrangements target these types of positions, the hiring process is often longer than that for temporary work.
Benefits of Direct Hire Work
- Security: Because a direct hire is a long-term commitment, you won’t have to worry about finding a new job any time soon.
- Benefits: As a direct hire, you will have a benefits package that may include insurance and paid time off. (Some staffing agencies, like Temporary Solutions, offer temporary employee benefits packages also.)
- Company Culture: Once you are hired, you instantly become part of a supportive team that is invested in your success. A sense of belonging can positively affect your job performance. Being fully immersed in a company can also offer the possibility of advancement in the future.
No matter what type of employment currently suits you, Temporary Solutions has a variety of jobs for each type of employment. Check out our job board today to find your next opportunity!