Top Qualities to Look for in Temporary Administrative and Clerical Staff

Posted on July 9, 2023

When it comes to hiring temporary administrative and clerical staff for your government contracting firm, it is essential to identify the top qualities that will ensure their success in supporting your operations. The right individuals can make a significant impact on your team's productivity and the overall efficiency of your organization. In this blog post, we will explore the key attributes of temporary clerical staff and the qualities you should look for when hiring temporary administrative professionals.

Excellent Communication Skills

Effective communication is a vital quality to seek in temporary administrative and clerical staff. These individuals will often be the first point of contact for clients, colleagues, and stakeholders. Look for candidates who possess strong verbal and written communication skills. They should be able to articulate themselves clearly, convey information accurately, and demonstrate active listening skills. Excellent communication fosters smooth workflow, minimizes misunderstandings, and enhances overall team collaboration.

When evaluating candidates, pay attention to their ability to express themselves clearly during the interview process. Look for concise and articulate responses that demonstrate their communication skills. Additionally, consider conducting written assessments or reviewing writing samples to assess their written communication abilities. A temporary administrative or clerical staff member with excellent communication skills can contribute to effective internal and external communication within your government contracting firm.

In addition to verbal and written communication, assess a candidate's interpersonal skills. Look for individuals who can build rapport, maintain professionalism, and collaborate effectively with diverse teams. Strong interpersonal skills enable temporary staff to establish positive relationships, navigate challenging situations, and contribute to a harmonious work environment.

Communication skills are particularly important in administrative roles that involve interacting with clients or stakeholders. Temporary administrative staff who can convey information clearly and professionally while actively listening to clients' needs can provide exceptional customer service and contribute to a positive brand image for your government contracting firm.

Adaptable and Quick Learners

Temporary administrative and clerical staff often need to adapt quickly to changing environments and new tasks. Look for candidates who demonstrate adaptability and a willingness to learn. They should be comfortable taking on different responsibilities and be able to thrive in a fast-paced work environment. The ability to quickly grasp new concepts, systems, and processes is crucial in temporary roles where individuals may be required to contribute immediately.

During the hiring process, ask candidates about their previous experiences handling change or adapting to new environments. Inquire about specific instances where they had to quickly learn new skills or processes. Look for examples that showcase their ability to be flexible, proactive, and resilient in dynamic work settings.

Consider assessing a candidate's problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills. Temporary administrative and clerical staff members often encounter unique challenges that require quick thinking and effective decision-making. Look for individuals who can analyze situations, think creatively, and propose practical solutions. These qualities will contribute to their success in handling unexpected scenarios and ensuring the smooth functioning of your operations.

A proactive approach to learning is a valuable quality in temporary staff members. Ask candidates about their experiences with self-directed learning or their willingness to take initiative in acquiring new skills. Temporary administrative and clerical staff who are eager to expand their knowledge and improve their capabilities can bring fresh perspectives and contribute to the continuous improvement of your government contracting firm.

Organizational and Time Management Skills

Efficient organization and time management are essential qualities to seek in temporary administrative and clerical staff. These individuals will be responsible for managing calendars, scheduling appointments, handling paperwork, and ensuring smooth administrative operations. Look for candidates who demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

During the interview process, inquire about a candidate's previous experience handling administrative tasks that require organization and time management. Ask about the specific methods they employ to stay organized and prioritize tasks effectively. Look for examples that demonstrate their ability to meet deadlines, maintain accuracy, and handle a high volume of work efficiently.

Consider assessing a candidate's proficiency with relevant organizational tools and software. Temporary administrative and clerical staff who are familiar with productivity tools such as calendar management applications, document sharing platforms, and task management systems can contribute to streamlined workflows and improved efficiency.

Look for individuals who pay attention to detail and possess strong organizational skills. Temporary administrative and clerical staff members who can maintain accurate records, ensure document confidentiality, and provide error-free administrative support contribute to the overall effectiveness and professionalism of your government contracting firm.

Customer Service Orientation

Customer service orientation is a crucial quality to consider when hiring temporary administrative and clerical staff. These individuals often interact with clients, vendors, and other external parties, representing your organization. Look for candidates who demonstrate a friendly and helpful attitude, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to providing exceptional service.

During the interview process, ask candidates about their previous experience in customer-facing roles or instances where they have demonstrated exceptional customer service skills. Look for examples that showcase their ability to handle difficult situations, respond to inquiries promptly, and maintain a positive and professional demeanor.

Consider assessing a candidate's empathy and interpersonal skills. Temporary administrative and clerical staff members who can understand the needs of clients, anticipate their requirements, and deliver personalized assistance can contribute to positive client experiences and long-term satisfaction.

Look for individuals who possess a proactive mindset when identifying and resolving customer concerns. Temporary administrative and clerical staff who take ownership of customer service issues and actively seek solutions demonstrate a commitment to ensuring client satisfaction and strengthening relationships with stakeholders.

Final Thoughts

All things considered, when hiring temporary administrative and clerical staff for your government contracting firm, focus on seeking candidates with excellent communication skills, adaptability, organizational and time management skills, and a customer service orientation. These qualities will contribute to the success of temporary staff in supporting your operations efficiently and professionally.

If you are in need of qualified temporary administrative and clerical staff for your government contracting firm, please reach out to us at (910) 280-4815 or email us at [email protected]. We are here to provide staffing solutions that align with your specific needs and help drive the success of your operations.