Major reason why workers choose to temp: Pathway to traditional employment, SIA report

One of the primary reasons temporary workers choose to temporary work is as a way of finding a traditional/permanent job or because they think temporary work will lead to a permanent job, according to SIA’s “Temporary Work Survey 2020” report.

It found that 49% of temporary workers choose to temp because they feel it will lead to a traditional job. That was by far the main reason for their choice.

The survey, which was conducted prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, also found that 11% chose temp work to supplement their income while they look for a permanent job, while 14% temp to supplement their income while not looking for a permanent job. In addition, 13% chose temp work to learn new skills or get work experience.

Another 13% said they temp for “other” reasons. These included flexibility/variety, travel opportunities and better compensation.

“It should be noted, however, that reasons for temping vary markedly by age and pay rate,” said Jon Osborne, VP of strategic research at SIA. “Those younger and/or at the lower end of the pay scale are more likely to choose temporary work as a method of finding a permanent position; those older and/or at the higher end of the pay scale are more likely to choose temporary work as a way to supplement income while not looking for permanent work.”

The report is based on a survey included nearly 6,000 temporary workers in North America.

The original article can be found at: Staffing Industry Analysts