Why are companies hiring fewer temps?

Nov 1, 2024
After hitting a peak in March 2022, the temp industry has come back down to earth.
A labor shortage has squeezed a significant portion of temp work out of the job market.
Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images

Temp worker employment is falling. What does that mean for the U.S. economy?

Jul 31, 2024
While decreasing numbers of temporary workers can be a leading recession indicator, economists say this time might be different.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about a quarter of temporary workers are employed in transportation and material moving occupations such as warehouse jobs.
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Temp jobs falling usually signals a recession. Maybe not this time.

Oct 5, 2023
It's probably more a sign of pandemic labor market weirdness than a coming recession.
Following an explosion of temp jobs during the pandemic, many positions were made permanent as companies scrambled to recruit and retain workers. Above, participants at a San Francisco job fair.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Automakers aren't the only manufacturers that rely on temporary workers

Sep 21, 2023
They're usually cheaper than permanent employees, but they can reduce productivity.
The UAW is demanding an end to tiered labor in the next contract. As of now, temporary workers are paid less than permanent employees.
Bill Pugliano/Getty Images

Is the Uber economy bad for workers?

Mar 10, 2015
Technology puts more services at our fingertips, but at what cost?

The dangers of temp work

Jul 10, 2014
Why temp workers could be at greater risk for injury.

For public good, not for profit.

Freelancers: From 'hustlers' into 'heroes for hire'

Feb 11, 2014
As more and more Americans work freelance jobs, a new industry emerges to meet their needs

The temp agency for CFOs

Aug 14, 2013
What does a company do when it's suddenly left without a CFO?

African-Americans allege labor discrimination in Chicago

May 7, 2013
African-American men in Chicago say some temp firms discriminate against them and prefer to hire Latino immigrants.