Workforce Predictions Coming True

Workforce Predictions Coming True

Richard Wahlquist, President and CEO of the American Staffing Association, commented over two years ago that, “labor market flexibility is going to be an even more important component of economic growth and global competitiveness as businesses are becoming more wary of labor overcapacity.” As we continue to work our way out of this period of slow economic growth, Wahlquist’s predictions are right on target, both nationally and locally.

Survey Shows Use of Temporary Staffing Growing

According to the results of a recent survey conducted by Harris Interactive of more than 3000 hiring managers and HR professionals, 36% will hire contract or temporary workers in 2012 compared to 34% in 2011, 30% in 2010 and 28% in 2009. The increased use of temporary staffing allows cautious increases in workforce numbers along with the flexibility to adjust staffing levels to accommodate fluctuating business demands. It is also a highly effective means of evaluating candidates for permanent positions as production, technical and administrative needs increase.

Wahlquist’s comments are coming true. Businesses are finding ways to manage their workforces with greater flexibility. By doing so they are finding new ways through the use of temporary staffing to remain competitive in today’s ever-changing global economy.