Managing Part-Time Employees

Community Manager — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 17:56:00 GMT

Seasonal employees, sub-contractors, freelancers, job-share workers: a growing sector of employment in the U.S. is part-time. Adding part-time workers allows companies to meet demand without sending payroll costs ballooning, but also creates management challenges. We like Inc.com's take on how to do it right: 7 Tips for Managing Part-Time Workers.

Tips include:

Write a proper job description. When an employee is part-time, it's even more critical to have clear expectations. Spell out responsibilities clearly.

Task part-timers with projects rather than open-ended assignments. Not all work is suited to part-time attention. Discrete, straightforward tasks are best suited to part-timers; save ongoing or service assignments for staff that is on the clock for the entire workweek.

Don't treat part-time employees as second-class citizens. Include all employees in important announcements and office functions and take pains to demonstrate that all employees are valued contributors, no matter their schedule.

Communication is key. Be clear that if emergencies pop-up, part-timers may need to be contacted during off hours. Be sure to have contact numbers and e-mails for such an occasion. Also, schedule regular office meetings during employees "on" days so lines of communication can remain open.

Finally, be open-minded about what part-time employees can offer. Managerial, as well as more junior roles, can often be handled part-time if a company and employee are willing to think creatively about how to structure a position.

How do you fold part-time workers into your staff? Share your thoughts here and at the Pendaflex Facebook page.

Beyond Folders : part time employment, job search

Managing Part-Time Employees