business

Organizations have increasingly relied upon contingent workers to allow flexibility, increase efficiency, curb rising costs, and change rapidly to work environments. Such contingent workers are either temporary or part time. Hiring contingent workers can be an advantage for both organizations and individuals. Advantages include:

· A rich set of diverse skills on an as-needed basis.

· Hired precisely when the specific work is to begin is very cost effective.

· Individuals who desire part-time work can keep their skills sharp.

· Contingent workers can balance their commitment to personal matters and their careers.

However, there is a tradeoff. Contingent employees usually do not receive the benefits typically offered to full-time core employees. Although hourly rates sometimes are higher for the contingent workers, these individuals have to pay themselves for the benefits that organizations typically provide. These benefits might include health insurance, disability, and 401k. Contingent workers often have to pay for their own office supplies and equipment. They do not receive time off with pay benefits; and if contingent workers don"’t work, they don"’t get paid. There are no sick days, vacation days, or bereavement days.

Nearly two decades ago, there were 619,000 temporary jobs in the United States. Today that number is over 14 million. (Fundamentals of Management, exhibit 2.9) It"’s probably accurate to say that the majority of the work force prefers permanent, full-time employment. But in a world of rapid change, permanent employees sometimes limit management"’s flexibility. So we can expect employers to increasingly rely on temporaries to fill new and vacated positions.

Please address each of the following questions in your original post.

· Use the ECPI Online Library or a credible, viable resource on the Internet to research at least one article to support your position.

· What is the purpose of a business? Does an employer or owner "“owe"” employees a job? If forced to choose between layoffs or shutting down, which choice should a company make? When are layoffs justified? (Laying people off is one of the most difficult tasks a manager may have to perform.)

· Do you believe organizations that hire contingent workers who would rather have permanent employment are exploiting these workers?

· Should organizations be legally required to provide some basic level of benefits - such as health insurance, vacation, sick leave, and retirement - to contingent workers?

· In your opinion, what should an employer do to treat contingency workers fairly? What would this cost the business or organization?

· When you reply to your classmates'’ posts, critique their statements. Determine whether or not you agree with their position and opinion. Justify your opinions with details, facts and examples.