u/InstaworkTeam

Credit goes to Etymology Nerd!

We thought this guide might be interesting to our bar and restaurant partners; perhaps you can learn some fun facts to share with guests! 

Have a big event coming up and wondering how long it will take to acquire temporary workers for the necessary roles? This chart shows the average hours it takes to fill shifts for large events according to our transaction data. 

Role	Average Hours to Fill Role on Instawork
Warehouse Associate – Intermediate	3
Merchandiser	6
Brand Ambassador	8.5
Warehouse Associate – Entry Level	9
Barista	9.5
Dishwasher	11
Barback	11.5
Concession / Stand Worker	11.5
Event Setup & Take Down	13
Counter Staff / Cashier	14.5
Custodial	16
Food Service Worker	16.5
Runner	16.7
Onsite Captain	17
Bartender	17.5
Line Cook	22
Prep Cook	25.5
Event Server	31
Busser	31.5
General Labor	34.5

This data comes from the National Restaurant Association’s Economic Contributions of the Restaurant and Foodservice Industry Summer 2025 Study, found here. 

Instawork thoroughly vets Pros through up to eight different methods, including a background check and phone screen, to make top-tier, reliable workers available through the Instawork Platform for your business. Here are the eight steps we take: 

• Background checks: Every Pro completes a comprehensive, multi-step background check before working their first shift. This process includes a Social Security number trace, criminal history review, global watchlist screening, and sex offender registry check.
• Phone interview: Instawork Coaches conduct one-on-one screening calls with Pros, using industry-specific knowledge to evaluate their work history and determine whether it aligns with the requirements of available positions. For example, if a worker is interested in bartender shifts, an Instawork Coach may ask how they would prepare and serve a Manhattan. Learn more about Coaches.
• Continuous network validation: After each completed shift, both Partners and Pros are asked to rate the Pros they worked with based on their skills, attitude, and work ethic. Pros who consistently earn strong reviews unlock benefits on the Instawork platform, such as early access to shifts. Conversely, Pros who repeatedly receive poor reviews may lose access to future shift opportunities. 
• W-2 employee verification: Instawork’s affiliate, Advantage Workforce Services, LLC (“AWS”), connects businesses with its W-2 employees through the Instawork platform. As part of AWS’s onboarding process, candidates must complete a Form I-9 and provide supporting documentation, which is reviewed in person by an authorized AWS representative to verify their eligibility to work in the United States.

 

Depending on the position type and shift requirements, Pros may be required to complete additional screening, including: 

• Uploading relevant certifications: Pros upload images of required certifications, such as a Food Handler card or TIPS certification, which are reviewed and approved by Instawork’s Operations team before they can work eligible shifts. 
• Verifying work attire: Pros upload photos of themselves wearing the required work attire, which are reviewed and approved by Instawork’s Operations team before they can work eligible shifts. 
• Proving specific skills through video demonstrations: Pros upload videos demonstrating specific skills, such as mixing a drink or chopping an onion. These videos are reviewed and approved by Instawork’s Operations team before Pros can work eligible shifts requiring those skills. 
• Passing skill-specific quizzes: Pros complete quizzes designed to assess the skills required for specific positions before becoming eligible for applicable shifts.

 

How does Instawork’s vetting process compare to other staffing platforms? Here is what the Google AI overview has to say: “Instawork uses a multi-layered screening process that is widely considered one of the strongest in the on-demand gig economy, featuring phone interviews, background checks, and performance ratings.” 

Credit for this chart foes to Quartr: https://quartr.com