Businesses seek flexibility. It helps them compete in a fast-paced, ever-changing global economy. The larger the company, the more likely it is to use staffing services, according to the American Staffing Association. In an ASA poll of 500 businesses conducted in 2004, 12% of companies with 25 to 99 employees used staffing services, compared with 24% of companies with 100 or more employees. Other surveys of large employers show 90% to 95% use staffing services.
Businesses that obtain temporary and contract employees through staffing firms cite three main reasons, according to the ASA poll:
- To fill in for absent employees or to fill a vacancy temporarily
- To provide extra support during busy times or seasons
- To staff special short-term projects
Businesses also look to staffing firms as a good source for permanent employees.
