Any time is a good time to offer contract staffing services to your clients. But the recruiters we work say there are certain times when you should take extra care to mention that you are able to handle contract job orders:

1. When you get a new client  - It's a good idea to let new clients know about ALL the services you provide, including contract staffing.

2. When a client has a position that is difficult to fill - Clients may have to adjust their expectations, and they are typically more willing to do that if they can try someone on a contract basis first. And a candidate may also be persuaded to try a position they are not sure about before committing to it full-time. 

3. When the client wants a guarantee - In lieu of a guarantee, you can let them "try-before-they-buy" by offering the candidates on a contract-to-direct basis.

4. Anytime you talk to a hiring manager (rather than the Human Resources Department) - Contract staffing job orders typically come from hiring managers  rather than HR.

5. During a client's hiring freeze - Clients can sometimes utilize contractors even when they are not able to hire direct because contractors require less commitment and the money generally comes from a different budget than it does for direct hires.

6. When they are reluctant to pay the recruiting fee - Clients may be more willing to pay over time via a monthly invoice for a contractor rather than the larger, one-time fee to hire them direct.

Debbie Fledderjohann is the President of Top Echelon Contracting, Inc.