An interim stranger worker is someone who fills in for staff members who are out sick or on vacation, during a busy season when demand for your product or service increases, or to help you tackle complex projects your regular team doesn’t have the skills or time to take on. Temporary workers can also be used to evaluate whether a specific person would fit well into your company culture, before hiring them on a permanent basis.

Most temp workers are employed by staffing agencies, which act as their official employer, paying their wages and handling their tax affairs. Some temp agencies also offer their temps benefits like health care and insurance.

Temporary Workers: Navigating the Gig Economy and Its Impact

Temps can be hired for a short or long period of time, from weeks to years. Many people choose to work temp for longer stints, allowing them to explore fields they want to develop their careers in before committing to a permanent position. In addition, temporary positions can provide a way to earn extra income during slow periods in the economy.

The nature of the work a temporary employee performs and how long they are expected to remain with the company are detailed in an employment contract. The agreement sets out the temp’s job description, outlines their responsibilities and gives details of their pay. It should include the end date of the fixed term, though in practice this may be extended or moved up, depending on the needs of the business.