- About /
- The Water Cooler /
- How to Create a Successful Partnership with your Staffing Provider
How to Create a Successful Partnership with your Staffing Provider
By Kim Huncha
- Buffalo, MN
You’ve just awarded your staffing business to a new staffing provider. You’ve written job descriptions, agreed on bill rates, and have outlined the type of employees you need and deserve. Then you ask yourself, “Now what?”
There are many important aspects that make a partnership, especially a staffing partnership, successful. However, there is one that will take that relationship to the next level: communication.
Whether you are a small company using 5 to 10 flexible or contingent employees or a company who uses 50 or more a day, communication is imperative for a successful staffing partnership. Many times a Human Resources professional will manage this relationship. While he or she definitely plays an important role in determining the staffing levels at your company, the main supervisors and shift leads also play a vital role in the day-to-day communication concerning your staffing strategy.
Supervisors and leads are your people on the front lines. They see the contingent or flexible staff carrying out the job, they understand how these employees relate to other staff, and they can determine how productive the person is and if they are the right fit. Your provider needs to know the things that are going well, and the areas that may need improvement.
Let your staffing provider know who is doing an excellent job. Often times additional bonuses may be offered, individual recognition awards, or more candidates who have the same attributes or background as that employee you are so pleased with can be recruited. Some of the best employees are those from whom staffing providers receive feedback. With proper coaching or additional training, some employees can become a perfect fit for your company which in turn will increase employee retention and employee engagement. Without being aware of a problem, the issue at hand cannot be addressed. It’s a win-win situation and all parties involved are happier – leading to a strong and long-lasting relationship.
Your staffing provider knows that HR Managers, Supervisors, and Leads all have a lot on their plate – in addition to responsibilities regarding staffing levels and contingent staff. Taking just a few minutes to send an email, return a phone call, or chat briefly when your staffing provider stops by will make for a much more successful relationship. Nothing is ever perfect, but when you work together and communicate well, it is definitely a success.