Procurement and HR professionals who are responsible for the staffing of their organization seek engagement as if it is the Holy Grail. The fact is, when it comes to employee engagement, if there is a lack of focus, it may hurt your bottom line. If you are like the majority of hiring managers, you are likely doing a superior job with your full-time workers, but some of your contingent workers may feel a bit left out. They may also feel as if they aren’t a “real” part of your business.
There is good news. This doesn’t have to be the situation for your organization. With a few well thought out efforts, you can ensure all your workers get along and feel valued. While it may require time and hard work, it is possible. It is also in the best interest of your business to do so.
Get to Know the Modern Workforce
In the past, contingent employees were just thought of as temporary workers. They weren’t worth much of an investment because they would leave in a short time frame. This is a generalization that is no longer true. Many of these workers are contract-based professionals who have specialized skills. As a result, they offer their freelance work on a seasonal or project basis.
These are workers who embody the term “flexible.” They don’t remain tied to any single project or company. They often work remotely and set their pay rates and hours. The primary factor is that they value their independence. It is important for businesses to understand this type of talent and how to meet their needs.
Offer Skill Development and Training
Studies have shown that workers value the opportunity to advance in their careers, as well as having the opportunity to tackle challenging work. When you offer these contingent workers the opportunity to work on new, exciting projects, this is beneficial. It can improve their professional skills and let them know you value their career. As a result, they remain satisfied and content, which encourages them to continue working with your company rather than moving from one location to another.
Consider a Revamp of Management Solutions with Employee Self-Service Software
With a new, modern workforce, now is the time for your organization to embrace the latest technologies available. Not only does this include how new talent is acquired, but also in communication and productivity. An effective way to do this is by implementing employee self-service software. This technology allows your contingent workers to let you know when they are available. They can also use it for updating projects, communicating with other workers through an employee messaging system, and more. Each of these factors leads to a higher level of contentment among all workers, which encourages increased productivity and profits.
Encourage Contingent Employees to Share their Innovations and Ideas
Another way to use an employee messaging system is to request that employees share their ideas, skills, experience, and other innovations. Let them know that these unique skills are valued by the company. To make this unique group of workers feel satisfied, make sure you value what they bring to the table.
In addition to letting them know their ideas are valued, it is a good idea to let them know they matter. This doesn’t mean giving out awards or hosting ceremonies. Instead, let the individual know how their work affects the customer, as well as the industry as a whole.
Offer New Opportunities
There is likely a reason that workers consider themselves “contingent.” However, putting your assumptions about this to the side is a good idea. View the time that your contingent talent is working for you as a “trial.” This can help you determine if you want to invest in the expertise they have long-term.
In some cases, the employee isn’t searching for full-time employment. However, the experience they have with the company may change their mind. If everything goes well, the individual may respond to an incentive to turn the temporary position into a permanent one. Make it clear that there are full-time openings available if they want to stay on. The key is transparency.
Have You Created an Attractive Environment for Contingent Workers?
There is no question that more and more people are working remotely. As they do this, the talent you may have access to without an attractive contingent environment is shrinking. Take the time to consider your work atmosphere. Is it appealing to someone who values independence? Would they find your methods and tools beneficial to getting things done and being productive?
If you answered “no” to any of this, then it is time to rethink your strategy. With the millennial generation moving into the workforce, businesses have to make moves to accommodate their work preferences. This is the future of business, and the unique skills they have are necessary to keep a business innovative and moving forward.
