How to Onboard Temporary Employees for Maximum Impact

Bringing in temporary employees can be a smart move when you need extra help during busy seasons, have special projects to finish, or need to fill in for someone on leave. But hiring temporary staff is only half the job. To get the best results, you need to onboard them in a way that helps them settle in quickly and feel ready to contribute from day one. 

Start Before Day One

The best onboarding starts before your temporary employee even walks in. Share key details ahead of time, including what to expect on the first day, where to go, who to meet, and any paperwork or ID they might need to bring. A short email with a friendly welcome message and a quick overview of your company culture sets a positive tone.

If possible, let them know who their main contact person will be. Having a clear point of contact makes new hires feel supported and gives them someone to turn to with questions.

Keep Orientation Simple but Focused

Temporary workers don’t need a full week of training, but they do need enough information to feel confident in their role. Keep orientation short and focused on what they’ll actually use day-to-day. Walk them through their responsibilities, show them where to find resources, and explain the most important policies, such as timekeeping and safety procedures.

This is also a good time to introduce them to your company’s way of doing things. Even if they’re only with you for a few weeks, knowing how you communicate, collaborate, and prioritize helps them fit right in.

Assign a Team Buddy

One of the easiest ways to help temporary employees feel included is by pairing them with a team buddy. This person can answer quick questions, introduce them to coworkers, and help them navigate small things, like where to find supplies or how to log time.

A good buddy doesn’t need to be a manager. In fact, pairing them with someone who’s part of the same team or department often works better because it feels more natural. 

Give Feedback Early and Often

Temporary employees often work under tight timelines. That’s why it helps to check in early, even within the first few days. A quick conversation to review how things are going can clear up confusion before it turns into mistakes.

Keep the feedback direct and supportive. Let them know what they’re doing right and what could be improved. It not only helps them perform better, but also shows that you value their contribution for the short time that they’re there.

Keep Communication Open

Temporary workers should feel like part of the team, not just visitors. Invite them to team meetings, include them in updates, and make sure they know what’s happening around them. Clear, open communication helps build trust and makes them feel comfortable taking initiative.

Ready to find skilled, dependable temporary workers for your business? Contact us today at Goodwin Personnel Consultants to discover staffing solutions that fit your needs and help your team thrive.