By Bobby Christy, Co-Founder and CEO, Hustle Partners
Hey there, Bosses!
So, you’ve got yourself a roster of gig workers and agency hires filling in the gaps at your joint, whether that’s flipping burgers, running conveyor belts, steering the logistics wheel, or pruning the greenery. You want to know the secret sauce to making these cats want to stick around or bounce back to you when you need them again? Sit tight, because I’m about to lay it down straight.
“Building lasting bonds with your gig workers and temp hires isn’t just a nice-to-do—it’s a must-do.” – Bobby Christy, Co-Founder and CEO, Hustle Partners
Understand Their Hustle
Flexibility Is Not Optional: These gig workers chose this life for a reason—flexibility. If you're trying to chain them to a desk or a strict schedule, you’re playing it wrong. Embrace their need for flexibility. It shows you respect their lifestyle, and guess what? That earns you loyalty.
Respect Their Independence: These folks are used to running their own show. Give them the what and the why, but let them handle the how, as long as it hits your standards. This respect you’re showing? It’s a two-way street that leads right back to you when they’re choosing their next gig.
Make That Personal Connection
Talk to Them—For Real: Don’t let these workers float around unnoticed just because they might not be here next season. Communicate openly—like they’re part of the forever crew. Updates, insights, a simple ‘how you doin’?’—it makes a difference. Makes them feel seen, heard, valued. That’s gold.
Props Where Props Are Due: There’s nobody that doesn’t like a little shine for their grind. Recognize their effort, shout out their achievements. This isn’t just good manners—it’s smart business. Makes them feel part of the success they’re helping you build.
Invest in Their Game
Train 'Em Up: No rule says you can’t polish up a gig-worker. Offer training, development opportunities—even if they’re not sticking around forever, they’ll push harder and perform better while they’re on your clock. Plus, they’ll remember who treated them right and be ready to jump in again when you need them in the future.
Show Them There’s a Ladder: And I’m talking about the climbable kind. Let them see there's a way to move up, or at least move forward, in your world. Could be a lead on the next project, could be a permanent spot. Make it clear there’s more to this gig if they want it.
Foster the Family Feel
Welcome to the Family: From day one, make these hires feel at home. Loop 'em into the team. Invites to the lunch table, the group chats, the after-work hangs—include them like they’re one of your own.
Equal Ground: School your permanent staff to treat these temps and gig workers as equals. They’re part of the machine, and every part matters. This fosters respect, camaraderie, and, you guessed it, a network that these workers want to stay connected to.
Keep That Door Swinging Open
Part on Good Terms: Always end it cool. Let them know they’re welcome back. A ‘thanks and see ya next time’ can go a long way.
Easy Come, Easy Go: Make their return as smooth as a fresh jar of Skippy. Keep the red tape to a minimum, keep their records straight, and maybe toss in a little sweetener—a bonus, a better rate, first dibs on prime gigs.
Final Note From our CEO:
Listen up, building lasting bonds with your gig workers and temp hires isn’t just a nice-to-do—it’s a must-do if you want to keep your operations slick and your workforce motivated. It’s about giving respect, getting respect, and keeping that respect flowing. Treat them right, and not only will they come back, they’ll bring their A-game every single time.
So, get out there and make your place the place they want to be. Build those bonds, break down the barriers, and watch your business boom with a crew that’s loyal, pumped, and ready to roll whenever you call.
