How big is the industry?
The staffing industry generated approximately $87 billion in sales in 2006: $72 billion from temporary and contract staffing and $15 billion in search and permanent placement services.
What accounts for the growth of the industry?
America's work force is changing as more and more people are looking for the flexibility that temporary work provides. Companies are tapping into the flexible labor market to keep fully staffed during busy times.
Do staffing firms charge employees a fee for temporary assignments?
No.
How long do people hold temporary jobs?
While specific jobs may last from a few hours to several years, the best estimates for the average tenure of temporary and contract employees range from three to four months.
What types of assignments do staffing companies offer?
Jobs range from day laborer to chief executive officer and are available in virtually all occupations.
What are the trends in the kinds of jobs being assigned?
The fastest growth is occurring in professional and technical occupations.
How many staffing companies are there in the U.S.?
There are about 6,000 firms that have been in business a year or more. Those companies operate approximately 20,000 offices. ASA member companies operate more than 15,000 offices across the nation and account for more than 85% of U.S. industry sales.
What kind of pay and benefits do temporary and contract employees receive?
To attract the most qualified employees, staffing services offer highly competitive wages and benefits. The average temporary or contract employee earns around $12 per hour. Some earn more than their permanent counterparts. Most staffing companies offer health insurance as well as vacation and holiday pay, and many offer retirement plans. Virtually any temporary or contract employee who wants benefits can find a staffing firm that offers them.
What kinds of services do staffing companies provide?
Staffing companies offer a wide range of employment-related services and solutions, including temporary and contract staffing, recruiting and permanent placement, outsourcing, outplacement, training, and human resource consulting.
Sources: American Staffing Association, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Omnicomp Group
Contact
Alexandra Karaer
Director of Research
703-253-2048
akaraer@americanstaffing.net |
