There’s an ongoing misconception that staffing companies only offer short-term jobs, not a long-term career advantage. We asked Volt’s Lauren Jones, Director of Talent Acquisition, to provide some insights on what a staffing company can really do.    

What types of jobs can I get through Volt? 

Really, nearly any type of job in the industries we serve, from entry-level roles to specialized technical and professional positions. We don’t fill every type of position, but we’re a full-service staffing agency, so our job is making sure our clients can fill any open position quickly. And since we have a lot of clients, that means a lot of jobs for qualified people.

The idea that staffing companies offer “temporary” jobs to people who can’t find a long-term job is completely outdated. Many employees choose contingent assignments because they want the flexibility to take on new projects and challenges. They don’t want to be entrenched in a job forever. It’s part of the movement we’re seeing toward a freelance culture. And most clients understand that a person can be an expert in their field without having long tenures on their resumes. The crucial question is, Can they do the job? Contingent staffing gives companies the flexibility to bring in highly-qualified specialists for a particular project rather than making a long-term employment commitment, and Volt makes it easier for them to invest in qualified talent rather than an in-house recruiting process.

Why would a company use a staffing firm for an important position?

There are several reasons: First, a contingent assignment lets a company see how an employee performs and how they fit the company culture. It’s a great way for them to make sure they’re building a reliable team. Next, some companies hire infrequently, so they don’t have a need for a full-time recruiter and want to take advantage of a staffing firm’s expertise. Finally, the job may be project-based in nature, and contingent staffing allows a company to deploy someone with niche skills without having to find more work for them when the project is done.   

What is the role of the staffing company once you find me a contingent assignment?

We continue to follow up throughout our field employee’s assignments. Are you happy with the job? Do you feel fulfilled in the role? Do you have any concerns about your workplace? Some people want a career, others just want a job, and in either case, we work as an advocate for our employees. We want them to be happy. Candidates have a lot of ways to find their next job and they expect a response and respect both when they’re looking for a job and when they’re working. We make sure they know we’re here to help them get the most from their assignment.

How often does a contingent employee get hired on in-house with a company?

This depends on the company and the position. Again, some positions are short-term by design, so there may not be an in-house position available. Sometimes, the decision is up to the employee and whether it’s a company or a role they want to commit to long-term. Every company wants quality people, and that decision may be based on cultural fit as much as a skills match. A contingent employee who impresses our client may be offered an in-house role, or may have their Volt assignment extended with the same client.

Is it possible to advance my career working with a staffing company?

Absolutely. Contingent assignments give the power back to the jobseeker. Every assignment gives you additional experience, which makes you more valuable to employers. You need to have a plan, and to work with a recruiter who understands your goals, but there are great opportunities for advancement through contingent assignments, often more so than getting an in-house job where you’re locked into a particular position and have to wait for there to be room for advancement.

Here’s something important to think about: Attitude matters a lot. I am more likely to suggest a candidate who has a great attitude and fewer skills than one with more skills but a bad attitude. That’s the most important factor in advancing your career, no matter where you choose to work.