If you're looking to hire a temporary worker to help out during a busy season or cover for an employee on leave, there are a few things to keep in mind. You want to make sure that you find the right person for the job, and that starts with writing a clear and concise job description.

Here are three mistakes you might make when writing a job description for a temporary hire.

Not Being Specific About the Job Duties

When you're hiring someone for a temporary position, it's important to be as specific as possible about the job duties. You don't want your temporary worker to be confused about what is expected of them. They also won't be able to accurately estimate how much time they'll need to complete the job, so make sure you provide as much detail as possible when discussing tasks.

Be sure to include a detailed list of responsibilities in the job description so there's little room for confusion. You also weed out applicants who aren't qualified for the job when you're specific about what you need.

Not Including a Start and End Date

Another mistake you might make when writing a job description for a temporary hire is not including a start and end date. This is important information for potential candidates to have so they can decide if the position is right for them. After all, the job might not be feasible if the applicant is already committed to another project or can't take on extra hours because of their current workload.

Be sure to include the start and end dates in the job description, with clear instructions on what to do if the job goes on longer than expected. You could even include an option to extend the contract if it becomes necessary.

Not Specifying the Compensation

The amount of compensation a temp worker should expect is an important piece of information, and leaving it out could cause problems that you might use up more of your time trying to solve. You want to make sure that the temp worker understands their pay and any benefits they'll receive.

Be sure to include information on how much you're willing to pay for the position, as well as any extra perks or benefits that come with the job. This will help ensure that you attract the right candidate for the job and that you don't end up overpaying them or in a tug-of-war over wages.

Avoid making these three common mistakes, and you'll be on your way to finding the perfect candidate for the job. Also, consult with a temporary staffing agency if you need help finding the right person for a short-term position. Good luck!