The 3 Biggest Misconceptions About Hiring Temporary Staff

Raise your hand if you've ever had a negative view of temporary staff? Well, you're not alone but it's time to put that view firmly in the non-recycling bin (even though we're a big fan of taking climate action). As one of the leading staffing suppliers in the UK, we're here to tell you that those common misconceptions couldn’t be further from the truth. So, let's start busting these myths and set the record straight.

1. Temporary Staff are Unskilled and Inexperienced

Let's kick off with the biggest misconception of all and the one that really grinds our gears: temporary staff are not skilled or experienced. Temporary staff are simply individuals working without long-term contracts, their employment status says nothing about their skills, experience, or potential.

Some people just simply aren't big fans of the nine to five and who can blame them?! Neither are we, hence why we work 24/7 instead 😉

Many temporary workers, especially here at Arc, are highly-skilled professionals, some of whom have spent years working or studying to become exceptional at what they do. Our team is used to stepping into unfamiliar environments and quickly getting up to speed, bringing adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving skills that add value far beyond the immediate task.

We've got hospitality managers know how to command a room of hundreds, orchestrating staff with precision to ensure every guest enjoys a seamless, top-tier experience. We’ve got chefs for whom preparing thousands of meals is just another day on the job. Whatever roles you're looking for, we've got a ready and capable team waiting for your call.

So, if you're team is down on people and you need to boost those numbers, don't be afraid of hiring temporary staff, especially when they are as amazing as our staff! You can contact our commercial team if you're looking to hire temporary staff.

2. You Can't Build a Team Culture With Temps

We’d love to give you a 60-second sneaky peek into one of our event team briefings - and we guarantee you'll soon change your mind. But between the tight security, high-grade compliance checks, and the fact you'd have to actually put a shift in… it's probably best just to trust us on this one!

When we hire, it’s not just about skills and experience, attitude matters too. We carefully select people who are not only capable but also genuinely enthusiastic, with strong communication skills and the ability to engage in real, meaningful interactions. That mindset is what lets our teams integrate effortlessly with yours, no matter how big or complex the operation...and we have worked with many complex operations in our time.

Our team members are pros at stepping into unfamiliar environments, working with new people, and adapting quickly to different operational procedures. They do it every day, and they’re brilliant at it. These aren’t just "temps", they’re reliable, agile professionals who bring consistency, personality, and team spirit to every event. Read about our wonderful Cheryl, one of our Hospitality Managers who is one of our Arc Allstars, reaching over 1,000 shifts with Arc!

We understand the weight of trusting a company to deliver a standout team, one that represents your brand with professionalism and ensures your guests get the experience they truly deserve. Our team is focussed on providing the best guest experience possible at each and every shift, just like as if they were your own!

3. Hiring Temporary Staff is Too Expensive

Hiring temporary staff may seem like a costly route, especially if you’re comparing it to doing everything yourself. Yes, we charge a fee for using our services but what you’re really paying for is peace of mind, expert delivery, and a huge amount of time and resource saved on your end.

Behind the scenes, we’re doing far more than simply sending people your way. We take care of everything: the time-consuming, often complex tasks that are essential for getting the right people in the right place at the right time. That includes:

• Writing and placing job adverts

• Managing recruitment and selection

• Handling all legal and compliance requirements

• Delivering tailored training

• Communicating key event information

• Organising and confirming shift schedules

• Managing timesheets and attendance

• Running payroll

• Resolving any issues or complaints swiftly and professionally

  
  

And here’s the best part, all of this is handled by seasoned professionals who live and breathe this industry. Every detail is managed with care, attention, and genuine expertise.

So yes, there’s a cost. But when you weigh it against the cost of getting it wrong with missed deadlines, untrained staff, compliance issues, or a poor guest experience, our service quickly becomes one of the smartest investments you can make.

Our Head of Commercial, Courtney Wakes

If you're looking to hire temporary staff, then speak to our Commercial Team today for a quick chat, message, or email with Courtney or Luke - who will be able to help you with your needs.