This week, we continue to look at how employers can benefit from effectively using temporary assignments in their workforce.

The number-one advantage is flexibility. Temporary staff can fulfil both long- and short-term needs, and can be engaged and released at short notice.

They also offer support for your permanent workforce. Rather than constantly redistributing work between permanent staff - which can reduce productivity, increase stress and negatively affect quality - temporary resources can take on the burden. For special projects, bringing in temporary workers with the right expertise can be an effective solution.

Using temporary workers also removes administrative burdens. They are interviewed, paid and have their references checked by an agency, and have undertaken any necessary pre-employment medical and safety checks.

Finally, not all talented individuals want a permanent job. Those attracted to temporary assignments may see them as providing a better work-life balance, the flexibility they need to be able to remain in the workforce, or better opportunities to develop a greater range of skills and experience.

Marc Burrage, regional director, Hays in Hong Kong