In the vibrant and dynamic decade of the 1980’s, Staffing Solutions Enterprises (SSE) grew in an era defined by change, innovation, and opportunity. Founded in the summer of 1974 by Carmella Calta, SSE embarked on a mission to revolutionize the temporary staffing sector. By the ’80s, we solidified our reputation as a trusted partner for businesses seeking top-tier talent for temporary roles. The 1980’s were characterized by iconic moments that left a profound impact on society. As personal computing became increasingly accessible, revolutionizing the way we work and communicate, we embraced the technological advancements of the era. Meanwhile, the cultural influence of MTV reshaped music consumption and popular culture, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the 1980’s.
Expanding Horizons: Growth and Evolution
As the decade unfolded, Carmella Calta’s entrepreneurial spirit propelled our expansion. By the 1980’s, we were quickly becoming a prominent player in the Northeast Ohio staffing industry, with our main focus remaining temporary clerical and office support placements. Carmella Calta’s entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence fueled our evolution, leading to the opening of new locations as well as a strategic rebranding. In 1987, we rebranded from Minute Temps to TempsPlus featuring a brand new logo and slogan “Great People Doing Great Work.”
Embracing Technological Advancements
The 1980’s delivered a new era of technological innovation, and SSE embraced these changes with pragmatism. Fax machines became ubiquitous, revolutionizing communication within the office. Personal computers like the IBM PC and Apple Macintosh revolutionized work processes, replacing typewriters with word processors. Carmella reflected on this transformative period, stating, “I was proud of transitioning to computers for recruiting. It was stressful, but we did it successfully.” Our ability to adapt to emerging technologies ensured our continued relevance in an ever-evolving business landscape.
Navigating Recruitment Challenges
Recruiting in the 1980’s presented unique challenges, particularly as SSE expanded its services to downtown Cleveland. Transportation concerns for candidates necessitated innovative solutions, yet we remained dedicated in our commitment to quality placements. Carmella emphasized the importance of thorough evaluation, stating, “The quality of the placement was always in the back of our minds. We knew that in order to make great placements, we had to run thorough skills tests, personalized interviews, reference checks, and make sure candidates had the right attitude.” We always ensured the right fit for both clients and candidates, building our reputation as a trusted partner in staffing solutions.
Investing in Talent: Cultivating the Future
During the summer months, we welcomed an influx of college students into our ranks, providing valuable work experience and laying the foundation for future placements. This strategic approach not only addressed short-term staffing needs but also served as a pipeline for fresh talent entering the workforce. As Carmella noted, “In the summer, we had a lot of college students that worked for us, and then when they finished college, they were able to place them in regular roles after they graduated.” This strategy enabled us to attract and retain our candidate base, offering opportunities for growth and advancement to those seeking employment after completing their studies. By providing hands-on experience and fostering professional development, we ensured a steady supply of skilled individuals ready to excel in their roles.
Looking Ahead and Embracing Change
As we celebrated its achievements in the 1980’s, we also looked towards the future with optimism and determination. Referrals from satisfied client companies defined the unique quality of our services, while Carmella recognized the growing need for permanent placement services. In the late 1980’s, we prepared to launch our second line of business, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
Join us as we continue to explore SSE’s journey through the decades, celebrating 50 years of uniting top talent with great workplaces.