Grit, courage, resolve and strength of character – these are the words that best describe Carolynn Buchanan, owner of TempForce. It was her passion for helping others that inspired Buchanan to start her own business. At the young age of 21, she began working at an employment agency and after two years, she bought the struggling company. Eight years later, in 1985, she and her husband purchased the TempForce franchise and through hard work and dedication transformed the firm into a successful staffing agency, which Buchanan has managed and operated for 33 years.
“We see TempForce as the launching pad for people to secure opportunities with employers,” Buchanan said. “The most important thing for my customers to know is that they have our full commitment to doing everything possible to help secure quality talent for their staffing needs.”
Amber Buchanan, TempForce branch manager and Carolynn’s daughter, has worked for her mom in different capacities since
high school.
“She’s passionate about people and about seeing people find their best place to flourish,” Amber said. “She’s passionate about this community and her employees, as well as the business she has quite literally poured her life into.”
Amber said her mother possesses a drive to see things through and help others feel a sense of accomplishment in the workforce. Her mother pushes her team to exceed the expectations of the company. Those expectations, she said, are to match individuals with the best job they can find.
“Our team is committed to helping job seekers secure viable opportunities. If we are not their solution, we direct them to other resources available in our community in an effort to help them secure a job,” Amber said.
“Human resources is not an easy job,” Buchanan said. “We have a deep understanding of the challenges our clients deal with day to day as we also face similar challenges. We make it our priority to be a solid, reliable resource for them.”
Buchanan currently serves as the Legislative Affairs Director for the local North Central Florida Society for Human Resources chapter and works to keep local employers informed on pending legislation that could impact their businesses in the local marketplace.
“Our constant goal is to provide qualified talent to our clients based on their needs,” said Lou Carlton, TempForce staffing division manager.
In addition to assisting adults with their job hunts, TempForce has a vested interest in the community. Lecturing across different education programs in Alachua County, Buchanan often presents valuable information to students on job skills, résumés and preparedness for the job market.
TempForce also supports many charitable causes in the community such as Run the Good Race, a 5k/10k dedicated to world causes.
“The community respects the work TempForce does, which makes us a credible and impactful organization in the Gainesville area,” Buchanan said.
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SAVANNAH EDGENS is a Journalism senior at the University of Florida. While her interests vary from politics to entertainment, she is best known among her friends for her ability to quote movies. When she’s not writing, Savannah enjoys a good book or movie and a cup of coffee.