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Working Seamlessly With a Temporary Employee
Temporary professionals are often brought in to assist with fluctuating business needs or to audition for full-time positions. This staffing method is strategic and cost-efficient, particularly in an environment in which many companies are striving to accomplish major objectives with fewer resources.
However, if the reasons for bringing a temporary on board are not communicated clearly to staff, the person’s presence may cause some trepidation or confusion. Existing team members may be worried about how their jobs will be affected by this personnel change. Others may feel they’re being placed in the awkward position of competing against a newcomer. Ultimately, though, temporary professionals are a valuable asset because they help you achieve productivity goals and minimize work-related pressures. With a positive mindset and an emphasis on teamwork, you can overcome your concerns and ensure a successful working relationship.
Embrace the Change
If your department plans to hire someone to work with you on a temporary basis, try to address any uncertainties you may have beforehand. Begin by meeting with your boss before the new person arrives to learn how her addition will affect your responsibilities and workload. Put some thought into where assistance is most needed, offer your input and ask any questions you may have. If your company has never hired someone on a temporary basis before, ask about the significance of this new approach.
Offer to supervise her, or to be a resource if she has any questions. Your manager will appreciate your ability to collaborate with the temporary professional. Your willingness to help provide orientation and integrate her into the department will ultimately help your career as well as hers. Plan to do your part to help your boss keep the communication constant with all involved -- including core employees and the staffing firm -- to make sure the arrangement is working out for everyone and accomplishing its goals.
Facilitate a Strong Start
Check to ensure a workspace is prepared that includes all the equipment and supplies she will need to work efficiently. If the newcomer will require access to shared files or archives, make sure these are readily available. Provide computer passwords, security cards and other necessary materials. If she will be interacting with people outside the department, make sure she has a list of names, extensions and e-mail addresses for quick reference. By doing this, you’ll help foster a positive relationship and help her get up to speed sooner, which will benefit the whole department.
Here are some additional tips for working in harmony with a temporary professional:
· Be aware of your biases. If, for example, your company was not satisfied with the performance of a previous temporary or with the staffing firm, this could unfairly color your perceptions. Remember that this is a new person with fresh ideas and a different outlook. Partner with her so you can effectively work as a team.
· Offer your services as the “go-to” person. Even if you’re not officially supervising her, you may want to stop by the temporary professional’s work area and offer to answer any questions, especially throughout the first day. Find out if she needs additional support or tools, and if the workload is manageable. She might feel more comfortable speaking with you first about certain things such as facilities or office procedures rather than a manager.
· Make her a part of the team. Include the temporary employee in project meetings, when appropriate. Also invite her to attend group functions, such as celebrations or off-site lunches. She’ll feel more connected to coworkers and the organization, which can lead to greater motivation and productivity. Most of all, however, remember that temporary employees share a fundamental desire with everyone who has a job: They want to enjoy their work, and they want to deliver positive results.
· Get to know her. Don’t pry or overstep any boundaries, but do ask the temporary professional about her work experience, skills and career goals. You’ll be able to better utilize her abilities and maximize her job satisfaction as well.
· Recognize accomplishments. As you would with any team member, give credit where it’s due. If a temporary professional completed a task for which you are responsible, give your boss any feedback -- positive or negative -- on her role in it. Thank the individual for her hard work.
· Show the temporary professional the respect she deserves. Never refer to the employee as “just a temp,” and don’t let her think of herself that way. Treat her with the same respect, candor and fairness as you would a full-time staff member. Explain how much her work is appreciated. Provide praise as well as constructive criticism when appropriate.
Keep in mind that your employer brought this person in to help you. By communicating openly with both your manager and the temporary professional, you can work successfully as a team.
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