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The Difference Between Temp-To-Hire and Direct-Hire in the Construction Industry


Temp-to-hire and direct-hire employment can feel a little trickier to navigate – so we’re talking the difference between the two and how to make it an easier hirigh process no matter how you hire.

Temporary jobs are straightforward. When employers have a short-term need for help, they hire temporary workers to get the job done. When the temporary assignment contract is over, it’s over. Simple.

Today, let’s discuss the differences between temp-to-hire and direct-hire employment — and how to make onboarding and hiring easier for everyone involved, no matter which process you pick.


smiling construction supervisor with team of temporary workers


The #1 Difference Between Temp-to-Hire and Direct-Hire Employment

The difference between temp-to-hire and direct hire is the way a company brings on a new employee.

Through the temp-to-hire process, a company realizes they have an immediate personnel need, and they hire workers temporarily to fill that specific need.

The company brings those workers on with a contract for a specific (and finite) time. However, there is a possibility that the employer will offer them a longer-term position after the initial contract ends.

For a direct hire position, there is no temporary initial contract. Instead, an employee gets hired to fill a permanent position from day one, offering both company and candidate far more stability.

The Pros and Cons

Both temporary-to-permanent and more direct hiring processes have benefits and challenges. We’ll provide a few below so you can weigh the pros and cons of each for your hiring preferences.

Pros and Cons of Temp-to-Hire

  •  PRO:Employers have time to evaluate how candidates perform and fit in before offering permanent employment.

  •  PRO:Employers usually aren’t responsible for benefits, taxes, and insurance related to temp-to-hire workers (until the position becomes permanent).

  •  PRO:For employees, temp-to-hire often allows them to get their foot in the door and showcase their skills within the competitive construction industry.

  •  CON:Temp-to-hire positions are (by definition) uncertain. This can be stressful, but it helps ensure the working relationship is good.

Pros and Cons of Direct-Hire

  •  PRO:Companies can bring on permanent employees and consider the job filled without spending time and energy assessing the employee’s performance.

  •  PRO:For employees, direct-hire employment usually means peace of mind and long-term career growth and opportunities.

  •  CON:Employers may feel stuck with an unsatisfactory employee if the working relationship doesn’t work out.

  •  BONUS PRO:Employers who hire directly through My Career Profile need not worry. If you experience any issues with a candidate you find through our database, we’ll find a better replacement for you with no extra fee for up to one year.

Need Help Navigating Temp-to-Hire and Direct-Hire Employment?

If you’re an employer eager to hire, partnering with a professional recruiting service can help you shoulder the busywork involved with temp-to-hire and direct-hire employment. Contact us so we can find your perfect candidate.

If you’re a competitive job candidate, it’s time to make sure your skills stand out so you can get the temp or permanent position best suited for you. Reach out to get hired quickly and safely through Unlimited Services Available.

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