Thread regarding John Deere layoffs

When I was a contingent at Deere, the manager explained to me that contingent is “higher” than contractor. When lay-off comes, my position is “safer“ than a contractor. I have been with this company for four years, I knew that this is probably not completely true. I won’t be surprised contingent workers keep their hope high, work extremely hard and hope to become salaried staff one day because of the misleading impression from some managers. I was lucky to switch to full time after a few years. Unfortunately, I knew many of my contingent coworkers didn’t make it. I wish management can be more transparent about the truth.

To the original poster, a contingent worker is no more then a temporary worker. This can be used as a learning lesson to yourself and other viewers that when you get yourself into the position of a temporary job, to always be looking for a permanent job, whether that be a John Deere or another company. Alot of these contingent workers have a false impression that when there contract is up, they will either "A" get hired on with the company or "B" have there contract renewed. I hate to say it but the company doesn't have to do either option, but to just let you go. That's why you always have to be looking out for yourself and if you find a permanent job one month into your temporary job to just leave immediately. Trust me John Deere can replace anyone the next day, so don't feel bad to give a two weeks notice, because do you think the company has to give you a two weeks notice when they fire you? I don't want to put John Deere down as I know many people that worked and retired from there, what I have said above is how most companies feel about employees. In all honesty the companies don't care if your loyal anymore otherwise they will still have a pension not only for hourly workers but salaried workers.

A contingent worker is described as an independent contractor, freelancer, consultant or some other non-permanent and outsourced worker who is hired on a per-job basis. Unlike temp workers, who are often unskilled and receive on-the-job training to complete a certain job, contingent workers are usually highly trained and skilled for the specific job in which they’re hired.

When a temp worker is hired, they’re hired to do whatever the company needs, and their employment may last as little as a month or indefinitely. Contingent workers are generally hired under a statement of work provision, which details what the job is and how long the worker will be there to complete the job. When the job is done, the contingent worker leaves the company. He or she may be hired again by the company if they need another project completed at a later date, but each job or project is a separate employment agreement.