TrueBlue Research Reveals What Drives Today’s Multigenerational Temporary Workforce

New research from TrueBlue and its flagship staffing brand PeopleReady sheds light on how workforce expectations are evolving across generations — and what employers must do to stay competitive.

TrueBlue (NYSE: TBI), a leading provider of specialized workforce solutions, has released new findings from its flagship staffing brand, PeopleReady, offering fresh insights into what drives today’s temporary workforce. Based on responses from more than 8,000 workers nationwide, the 2025 Temporary Workforce Report reveals shifting dynamics that challenge long-standing assumptions about temporary employment.

The research highlights how mobile accessibility, flexibility paired with stability, and trusted local relationships are now central to attracting and retaining talent in an increasingly competitive labor market.

“Our research clearly points to three essential drivers of attracting and retaining today’s temporary workforce: a mobile-enabled platform, flexibility anchored by stability, and trusted relationships backed by strong local support,” said Taryn Owen, President and CEO of TrueBlue. “With decades of experience, an extensive national footprint, and deep local market insight, TrueBlue’s perspective on evolving workforce dynamics allows us to connect employers and talent with unmatched precision and scale.”

Key Findings from the 2025 Temporary Workforce Report

Mobile-First Is the New Standard

Mobile access is no longer a nice-to-have — it’s an expectation across generations. From quick onboarding to accepting jobs in just a few taps, workers want seamless, mobile-enabled experiences.

  • More than 80% of temporary workers, including 85% of Baby Boomers, value the ability to find jobs via mobile phone.
  • 83% of workers across all generations prefer staffing companies with mobile apps, such as PeopleReady’s JobStack.
  • 90% of Baby Boomers value fast pay — more than any younger generation.

Flexibility Must Be Balanced with Stability

Temporary workers aren’t seeking fewer hours — they want flexible work options without sacrificing income consistency or reliability.

  • For three out of four generations, earning primary income — not extra cash — is the main reason for choosing temporary work.
  • 65% of Gen Z respondents prefer multiple shifts at the same jobsite, showing a desire for consistency alongside flexibility.
  • 1 in 4 workers cited scheduling, location, or job-type flexibility as a top reason for choosing temporary jobs.

Personal Connection and Trust Still Matter

Even in a digital-first environment, trust and local support remain essential across all generations of temporary workers.

  • Nearly 90% of surveyed workers say trust in their employer is critical.
  • 80% value staffing companies with a local branch presence.
  • Gen X workers place the highest value on quick, effective job-search support, with 89% citing it as important.

“The key to success is understanding how to attract and retain today’s multigenerational temporary workforce,” said Kristy Willis, President of PeopleReady. “Today’s workers aren’t just seeking side income, and mobile access isn’t only important to younger generations. By aligning with these expectations, businesses can improve satisfaction, performance, and long-term value from day one.”

The PeopleReady Advantage

With its nationwide branch network and award-winning JobStack app, PeopleReady is uniquely positioned to meet the evolving needs of both employers and the modern temporary workforce. JobStack enables faster job matching, streamlined communication, and reliable staffing — connecting businesses with the right talent exactly when and where it’s needed.