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Temp-to-hire jobs on the upswing

Posted on October 22nd, 2013 Read time: 1 minutes

Employers looking to fill a new position have a difficult task. Even when the interview process yields qualified individuals, it's difficult to tell if a candidate is dedicated to the long run. To cope, many companies are hiring workers temporarily, with an understanding that a permanent position could be offered later. According to Joyce Russell, an expert in the staffing industry, temp-to-hire employment is becoming more commonplace in the job market.

"Employers are ready and willing to hire, and we're seeing a majority of them opt to hire this way to make sure they're making the best choice possible," Russell told Forbes magazine.

Among the advantages for employers in this strategy is the ability to evaluate a worker's skill, reliability and friendliness with coworkers. Employees can also benefit by trying out a new position, company or industry. No long-term commitment gives both parties a chance to test the waters.

Temporary hiring, in general, is a growing trend. This year, 31 percent of managers and human resource professionals planned to hire temporary or contract workers, which is up from 21 percent in 2012, according to Careerbuilder's 2013 Midyear Job Forecast. Though some may be on board for short-term projects, many could be working their way into permanent positions.

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