Are you working in the hospitality industry through a temp agency? Then it is important to know what kind of contract you will get. In this blog, we explain what the different options are and what to look out for.
Phase A, B and C contracts
If you go through a temp agency work, you usually get a so-called phase A contract. This is a fixed-term contract, often terminable weekly or monthly. You do not build up any rights, such as a permanent contract or transition compensation. However, you are entitled to wages, vacation pay and possibly a pension.
After 78 weeks of work you move to phase B. You then get a fixed-term contract for a maximum of 4 years or 6 contracts. In phase B you do build up rights, such as in case of illness or dismissal. You also often get a higher allowance for irregular hours.
If you work longer than 4 years or 6 contracts through the employment agency, you will enter phase C. This means that you will be given an indefinite contract with the employment agency. You are then in fact permanently employed, with all the associated rights and obligations.
Temporary employment clause and legal status
An important point to watch out for in your contract is the agency clause. This clause gives the temporary employment agency the right to terminate your contract immediately if the client (the hospitality company) no longer needs your services. The agency clause applies in phase A and the first 26 weeks of phase B.
Secondment Agreement
Sometimes, as a temporary worker, you don't get a temp contract, but a secondment contract. This is similar to a temp contract, but there are some differences. For example, there is no phase system and the agency clause does not apply. So you have a little more security.
A secondment agreement is often used for somewhat longer, more specialized assignments. Think, for example, of a cook or manager working at a location for a longer period of time. The legal status is more like that of a regular employee.
Payroll and contracting
In addition to staffing and secondment, there are two other components that staffing agencies sometimes use: payrolling and contracting. With payrolling, you are employed by a payroll company but work for a client. The payroll company takes care of the administration and payment of wages.
In contracting, you work on the basis of an assignment agreement. You are then in effect a self-employed person without personnel (zzp'er) working through the employment agency. This is rare in the hospitality industry because there is usually no real entrepreneurship involved.
Read your contract carefully
Whatever type of contract you get, it is always important to read it carefully. Pay attention to things like the type of contract, your rights and obligations, salary and benefits. If you have doubts about certain things, ask your intermediary for an explanation.
As a temporary worker in the hospitality industry, it is wise to also read up on the hospitality collective bargaining agreement. This contains important matters about wages, allowances, working hours and more. In principle, the employment agency must also adhere to this.
Temporary work as a stepping stone
For many people, temporary work is a first stepping stone to a job in the hospitality industry. You gain experience and can see if the work suits you. If you like it on both sides, you can eventually move on to a permanent contract with the client.
So don't be put off by the flexible contracts in the staffing industry. With a good attitude and work ethic, there are plenty of opportunities to grow into a great job in the hospitality industry. As with many things, what you get out is what you put in!
Hopefully through this explanation you now have a better idea of the different contract forms in the hospitality staffing industry. Remember to always read your contract carefully and ask questions if something is not clear. That way you will avoid any nasty surprises afterwards. Good luck with your adventure in the hospitality industry!
Should you be interested in working through a temp agency? Then take a look at our website for the vacancies.
