Nancy Reed had worked in Human Resources for seven years before she became the owner of the Express Employment Professionals franchise in Cameron County in 2006, prompted by her positive interactions with the staffing agency. Reed described herself as matchmaker, a person who enjoys getting the right employee paired with the right business. She discussed changes in the staffing industry world with VBR’s editor.
Q Flexible staffing has replaced the word ‘temp’ in the HR world. Is that segment expanding?
A We’ve noticed that hiring for flexible staffing is really growing. In the last three years, more and more industries are saying ‘Let me give it a try.’ Our clients are reluctant to hire for the long term, but they need more employees. With flexible staffing, they are able to supplement their core staff to complete a project, to handle a seasonal surge or to respond to a new wave of orders.
Q Who is using flexible staffing now?
A Almost all industries are turning to flexible staffing. Retail has been a strong new field in the last two years, particularly in the last quarter when retailers need seasonal sales and inventory staff. That has been great for us, because we have applicants skilled in inventory and sales. We screen and verify each candidate’s skills and suitability for the position. In addition, small medical and dental offices are noticeably growing and finding out they need more medical office specialists, front office staff, medical assistants, phlebotomists, coders and billers.
Q Why has there been this shift away from permanent employees?
A Businesses don’t know what new taxes and regulations they will have to cope with in the next year. That uncertainty stops them from taking on permanent employees. Also companies are so busy that they turn to us to save time and money. They like the idea of outsourcing to an expert in hiring.
Q What other options exist for companies who need more employees temporarily?
A Contract staffing is a solution for longer assignments in professional support positions such as accounting, buyers or mid-level managers. To retain the talent in these positions, we provide extended benefits such as health coverage, 401k, vacation and holiday pay.
Q There has been a shift in what was called the probationary hire. How does the Evaluation Hire you offer help employers?
A An Evaluation Hire lets you observe a candidate working with your crew for three months before deciding to make them a part of your team. It’s a risk-free way to ensure you end up with the perfect fit for your company culture. It reduces turnover by allowing both parties to confirm – or not – that the personalities and business ethics are a good match.
For more of this Question & Answer, pick up a copy of the November edition of Valley Business Report, on news stands now, or visit the “Current & Past Issues” tab on this Web site.