The Difference Between Temp-To-Hire and Direct-Hire in the Construction Industry
Temp-to-hire and direct-hire employment can feel a little trickier to navigate – so we’re talking the difference between the two and how to make it an easier hirigh process no matter how you hire.
Temporary jobs are straightforward. When employers have a short-term need for help, they hire temporary workers to get the job done. When the temporary assignment contract is over, it’s over. Simple.
Temp-to-hire and direct-hire employment can feel a little trickier to navigate.
Today, let’s discuss the differences between temp-to-hire and direct-hire employment — and how to make onboarding and hiring easier for everyone involved, no matter which process you pick.
The #1 Difference Between Temp-to-Hire and Direct-Hire Employment
The difference between temp-to-hire and direct hire is the way a company brings on a new employee.
Through the temp-to-hire process, a company realizes they have an immediate personnel need, and they hire workers temporarily to fill that specific need.
The company brings those workers on with a contract for a specific (and finite) time. However, there is a possibility that the employer will offer them a longer-term position after the initial contract ends.
For a direct hire position, there is no temporary initial contract. Instead, an employee gets hired to fill a permanent position from day one, offering both company and candidate far more stability.
The Pros and Cons
Both temporary-to-permanent and more direct hiring processes have benefits and challenges. We’ll provide a few below so you can weigh the pros and cons of each for your hiring preferences.
Pros and Cons of Temp-to-Hire
- PRO:Employers have time to evaluate how candidates perform and fit in before offering permanent employment.
- PRO:Employers usually aren’t responsible for benefits, taxes, and insurance related to temp-to-hire workers (until the position becomes permanent).
- PRO:For employees, temp-to-hire often allows them to get their foot in the door and showcase their skills within the competitive construction industry.
- CON:Temp-to-hire positions are (by definition) uncertain. This can be stressful, but it helps ensure the working relationship is good.
Pros and Cons of Direct-Hire
- PRO:Companies can bring on permanent employees and consider the job filled without spending time and energy assessing the employee’s performance.
- PRO:For employees, direct-hire employment usually means peace of mind and long-term career growth and opportunities.
- CON:Employers may feel stuck with an unsatisfactory employee if the working relationship doesn’t work out.
- BONUS PRO:Employers who hire directly through My Career Profile need not worry. If you experience any issues with a candidate you find through our database, we’ll find a better replacement for you with no extra fee for up to one year.
Need Help Navigating Temp-to-Hire and Direct-Hire Employment?
If you’re an employer eager to hire, partnering with a professional recruiting service can help you shoulder the busywork involved with temp-to-hire and direct-hire employment. Register as an employer with My Career Profile, post a job, and let us know how we can support your needs.
If you’re a competitive job candidate, it’s time to make sure your skills stand out so you can get the temp or permanent position best suited for you. Create a career profile to get hired quickly and safely through My Career Profile.