Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Net Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Retirement Benefits [Abstract] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Defined Benefit Pension Plans Pension Plan [Member] Retiree Health Care Plan Postretirement Health Coverage [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Interest cost Defined Benefit Plan, Interest Cost Expected return on assets Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Return (Loss) on Plan Assets Other Defined Benefit Plan, Other Cost (Credit) Total benefit cost (credit) Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) Contributions to pension plans Payment for Pension Benefits Contributions to retiree health care plan Payment for Other Postretirement Benefits Estimated employer contribution to pension plans during current fiscal year Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Remainder of Fiscal Year Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Type Document Type Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Changes in Restructuring Reserve Restructuring and Related Costs [Table Text Block] Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Effective income tax rate (as percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent U.S. Federal statutory rate (as percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Gross unrecognized tax benefits, including interest and penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Disaggregation of Revenue Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Data Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Restructuring Costs Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive (loss) income: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Income tax expense (benefit) on translation adjustments on net investment hedge Derivatives used in Net Investment Hedge, Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax expense on defined benefit pension plans and retiree health care plan Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, Tax Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Effect of Net Investment Hedges on AOCI Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Fair Value of Derivative and Non-Derivative Assets and Liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Share-Based Compensation Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Leases [Abstract] Period Ending December 31, 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Reportable segments Operating Segments [Member] Corporate Corporate, Non-Segment [Member] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Americas Americas Segment [Member] Americas Segment [Member] Southern Europe Southern Europe [Member] Segment information pertaining to Southern Europe. Northern Europe Northern Europe [Member] Segment information pertaining to Northern Europe. APME APME [Member] Segment information pertaining to APME. Right Management Right Management [Member] Segment information pertaining to Right Management. Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] United States United States Subsegment [Member] United States Subsegment [Member] France France Subsegment [Member] France Subsegment [Member] Italy Italy Subsegment [Member] Italy Subsegment [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Jefferson Wells Jefferson Wells [Member] Information pertaining to Jefferson Wells. Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Balance, December 31, 2018 Goodwill Goodwill acquired Goodwill, Acquired During Period Currency and other impacts Goodwill, Other Increase (Decrease) Balance, March 31, 2019 Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Effect of dilutive securities - stock options Employee Stock Option [Member] Effect of other share-based awards Non-Stock Option Awards [Member] Non-Stock Option Awards [Member] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Share-Based Awards Stock Compensation Plan [Member] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Net earnings available to common shareholders Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Weighted-average common shares outstanding (in millions) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract] Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Effect of dilutive securities Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Weighted-average common shares outstanding - diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Net earnings per share - basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Net earnings per share - diluted (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Antidilutive securities excluded from the calculation of net earnings per share - diluted (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Segment Data Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] United States Other Americas Other Americas reportable segment [Member] Segment information related to the Americas excluding the United States reportable segment. Other Southern Europe Other Southern Europe Reportable Segment [Member] Segment information related to the Southern Europe segment excluding France and Italy reportable segments. Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain] Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain] Reportable subsegments Reportable Subsegments [Member] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Franchise Franchise [Member] Franchise [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues from services Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Operating unit profit Operating Unit Profit (loss) Operating unit profit (loss) is equal to segment revenues less cost of services and branch and national headquarters operating costs. This profit measure does not include goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges or amortization of intangibles related to acquisitions, interest and other income and expense amounts or income taxes. Corporate expenses Operating Expenses Intangible asset amortization expense Amortization of Intangible Assets Operating profit Operating Income (Loss) Interest and other expenses Interest And Other Nonoperating Expenses Sum of interest income and expense, foreign exchange gains and losses and other miscellaneous non-operating income and expenses. Earnings before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Franchise revenue Total Franchise Revenue Revenues generated by franchise offices. Accounting Policies [Abstract] Basis of Presentation and Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Retirement Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Net restructuring costs Restructuring Charges Restructuring reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of period Restructuring Reserve Severance costs Severance Costs Office closure costs and other Business Exit Costs Costs paid, utilized or transferred out Payments for Restructuring Balance, end of period Restructuring reserve transferred to current operating lease liabilities Restructuring Reserve Transferred Out to Current Operating Lease Liabilities Restructuring reserve transferred to current operating lease liabilities Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Not designated as hedging instrument Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Designated as hedging instrument Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Foreign currency forward contracts Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Euro Notes Euro denominated Notes [Member] An obligation resulting from borrowing money. Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Accounts receivable, net Accounts Receivable [Member] Long-term debt Long-term Debt [Member] Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Assets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Liabilities Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Leases Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block] Recently Issued Accounting Standards New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Other Other Intangible Assets [Member] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Axis] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Tradenames Trade Names [Member] Reacquired franchise rights Reacquired Franchise Rights [Member] The rights we reacquired through business combinations that we had previously granted to the franchisees (acquirees) to use our trade name under a franchise agreement. Prior to 2009, these rights were considered indefinite-lived. Goodwill Finite-lived: Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated Amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Indefinite-lived: Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Gross Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill), Gross Sum of the gross amounts (original costs for current and prior period additions adjusted for impairment, if any) as of the balance sheet date of intangible assets, excluding goodwill, having a projected indefinite period of benefit. Net Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) Total intangible assets Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] Gross Intangible Assets, Gross (Excluding Goodwill) Accumulated Amortization Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization (Excluding Goodwill), Total Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization (Excluding Goodwill), Total. Net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Goodwill, accumulated impairment loss Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Indefinite-lived, accumulated impairment loss Indefinite Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill), Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss The accumulated impairment losses related to indefinite-lived intangible assets (excluding goodwill) as of the balance sheet date. Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense by Fiscal Year [Abstract] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Estimated amortization expense, remainder of 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year Estimated amortization expense, 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Estimated amortization expense, 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Estimated amortization expense, 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Estimated amortization expense, 2023 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Estimated amortization expense, 2024 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Period Ending March 31, 2019 Operating Lease Liabilities, Payments Due [Abstract] 2019 (excluding the three months ended March 31, 2019) Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2020 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Two 2021 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Three 2022 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Four 2023 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Five 2024 Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Year Six Amount of lessee's undiscounted obligation for lease payments for operating lease, due in sixth fiscal year following latest fiscal year. Thereafter Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due after Year Six Amount of lessee's undiscounted obligation for lease payments for operating lease, due after sixth fiscal year following latest fiscal year. Total future undiscounted lease payments Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Payments, Due Less imputed interest Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Undiscounted Excess Amount Total operating lease liabilities Operating Lease, Liability Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense Interest income Interest Income Interest income received from interest bearing assets. The balance includes income earned in return for depositing or lending money that can include income from time deposits, demand deposits, saving accounts, certificates of deposit, money market deposits, bonds, and loans. Foreign exchange loss (gain) Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Miscellaneous expense, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Interest and other expenses Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] CURRENT ASSETS: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts of $114.9 and $115.7, respectively Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Prepaid expenses and other assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current OTHER ASSETS: Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Intangible assets, less accumulated amortization of $373.8 and $367.7, respectively Operating lease right-of-use asset Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Other assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total other assets Assets, Noncurrent PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT: Property, Plant and Equipment, Net [Abstract] Land, buildings, leasehold improvements and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Net property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] CURRENT LIABILITIES: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable And Accrued Temp Payroll Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors and temporary employees for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Employee compensation payable Accrued Salaries Current And Accrued Vacation Current Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of the obligations incurred through that date and payable for 1) permanent employees' services provided and 2) unused vacation time owed to employees based on the entity's vacation benefit given to its employees. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Accrued liabilities Accrued Liabilities, Current Accrued payroll taxes and insurance Accrued Payroll Taxes, Current Value added taxes payable Sales and Excise Tax Payable, Current Short-term borrowings and current maturities of long-term debt Debt, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current OTHER LIABILITIES: Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Long-term operating lease liability Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total other liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] ManpowerGroup shareholders' equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Preferred stock, $.01 par value, authorized 25,000,000 shares, none issued Preferred Stock, Value, Outstanding Common stock, $.01 par value, authorized 125,000,000 shares, issued 117,043,224 and 116,795,899 shares, respectively Common Stock, Value, Issued Capital in excess of par value Additional Paid in Capital Retained earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive loss Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury stock at cost, 57,308,380 and 56,044,485 shares, respectively Treasury Stock, Value Total ManpowerGroup shareholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total shareholders’ equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity Liabilities and Equity Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net earnings Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Non-cash lease expense Noncash Lease Cost Noncash Lease Cost Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Taxes and Tax Credits Provision for doubtful accounts Provision for Doubtful Accounts Share-based compensation Share-based Compensation Changes in operating assets and liabilities, excluding the impact of acquisitions: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Other assets Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets Other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Cash provided by (used in) operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Acquisitions of businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Proceeds from the sale of investments, property and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net change in short-term borrowings Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Debt Proceeds from long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repayments of long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt Payments of contingent consideration for acquisitions Payment for Contingent Consideration Liability, Financing Activities Proceeds from share-based awards and other equity transactions Proceeds From Share-Based Awards And Other Equity Transactions Cash received on stock transaction after deduction of issuance costs, and on other equity transactions. Payments to noncontrolling interests Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Other share-based award transactions Other Share Based Award Transactions Net The total cash inflow (outflow) associated with share-based award transactions not individually reported. Repurchases of common stock Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Effect of exchange rate changes on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Change in cash and cash equivalents Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents, end of period SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest paid Interest Paid, Net Income taxes paid, net Income Taxes Paid, Net Non-cash operating activity: Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities Right-of-Use Asset Obtained in Exchange for Operating Lease Liability Operating lease expense Operating Lease, Cost Short-term lease expense Short-term Lease, Cost Variable lease expense Variable Lease, Cost Total lease expense Lease, Cost Supplemental Cash Flows Information Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities Operating Lease, Payments Operating ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease obligations Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Net of tax and reclassification adjustments of the change in the balance sheet adjustment that results from the process of translating subsidiary financial statements and foreign equity investments into the reporting currency of the reporting entity. Translation adjustments on net investment hedge, net of income taxes of $5.1 and $(4.8), respectively Derivatives used in Net Investment Hedge, Net of Tax, Period Increase (Decrease) Translation adjustments of long-term intercompany loans Adjustment for Long-term Intercompany Transactions, Net of Tax Defined benefit pension plans and retiree health care plan, net of income taxes of $0.1 and $0.2, respectively Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Reclassification Adjustment, after Tax Total other comprehensive (loss) income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] 7S Group GmbH 7S Group GmbH [Member] 7S [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Total cash consideration for acquisitions, net of cash acquired Total cash consideration for acquisitions, net of cash acquired Total cash consideration for acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payment for contingent consideration liability, financing activities Initial acquisition payments Payments of contingent consideration for acquisitions Payments Of Contingent Considerations For Acquisitions The cash outflow from operating and financing activities for the payments of contingent consideration associated with the acquisitions of businesses. Loss contingency, additional consideration sought from the seller of 7S Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Estimate of possible loss Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Leases Lessee, Operating Leases [Text Block] Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term [Abstract] Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term [Abstract] Operating leases Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term Weighted Average Discount Rate Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent [Abstract] Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent [Abstract] Operating leases Operating Lease, Weighted Average Discount Rate, Percent Equity [Abstract] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Class of Treasury Stock [Table] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Axis] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Share Repurchase Program [Domain] Common Stock Repurchase 2018 Authorization Common Stock Repurchase 2018 Authorization [Member] Common Stock Repurchase 2018 Authorization 2016 Authorization Common Stock Repurchase 2016 Authorization [Member] Common Stock Repurchase 2016 Authorization Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items] Shares authorized to be repurchased (in shares) Stock Repurchase Program, Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased Shares repurchased during period (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares, Acquired Total cost of shares repurchased Shares remaining authorized for repurchase (in shares) Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Number of Shares Authorized to be Repurchased Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Interest and Other Expenses Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Table Text Block] Shareholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Deferred Stock Units Deferred Stock [Member] Stock units that are deferred. Restricted Stock Units Restricted Stock [Member] Performance Share Units Performance Shares [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Number of shares granted, options (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Weighted-average per share fair value, options (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Number of shares granted, non-options (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Weighted-average per share fair value, non-options (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Total shares granted, options and non-options (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options and Non-Option Instruments, Grants in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options and Non-Option Instruments, Grants in Period Weighted-average per share value, options and non-options (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options and Non-Option Instruments, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options and Non-Option Instruments, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Components of Net Periodic Benefit Cost Schedule of Net Benefit Costs [Table Text Block] Allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Accumulated amortization on intangible assets Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, authorized (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred stock, issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, authorized (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Treasury stock at cost (in shares) Treasury Stock, Shares Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract] Recently Issued Accounting Standards New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, before Tax Reporting Unit [Axis] Reporting Unit [Axis] Information by name of reporting units. Reporting Unit [Domain] Reporting Unit [Domain] Name of reporting units. Germany Germany [Member] Germany [Member] Netherlands Netherlands [Member] The name of a geographic segment representing facts about a reporting entity disaggregated by the geographic area of the entities activities. United Kingdom United Kingdom [Member] United Kingdom [Member] Other reporting units Other Reporting Units [Member] Other Reporting Units [Member] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Notes due September 2022 Notes Due September 2022 [Member] Notes Due September 2022 [Member] Notes Due June 2026 Notes Due June 2026 [Member] Notes Due June 2026 Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value, Disclosure Item Amounts [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying value Reported Value Measurement [Member] Euro-denominated notes Forward contracts Fair Value by Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair value measured on a recurring basis Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Level 2 Inputs Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 1 Inputs Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Long-term debt Debt Instrument, Face Amount Effect on consolidated statements of operations Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Carrying value of long-term debt Notes Payable, Fair Value Disclosure Deferred compensation plan assets Deferred Compensation Plan Assets Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Net Investment Hedging Net Investment Hedging [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Gain Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), After Reclassification And Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), After Reclassification And Tax (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Shares Granted and Weighted Average Fair Value Per Share Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block] Interest and Other Expenses Interest And Other Expenses [Text Block] The entire disclosure for interest income and expense, foreign exchange gains and losses and other miscellaneous non-operating income and expenses. Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Manpower Switzerland [Member] Manpower Switzerland [Member] Manpower Switzerland [Member] Experis AG Experis AG [Member] Experis AG [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Percentage interest acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Initial acquisition payments Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Acquired interests Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Cash and cash equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Net proceeds from sale of tax credits Proceeds from Sale of Other Receivables Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill and Intangible Assets Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table Text Block] Changes in Carrying Value of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill Balances by Reporting Unit Goodwill Balances By Reporting Unit [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of goodwill balances by reporting unit. Components of Lease Expense and Other Information Lease, Cost [Table Text Block] Supplemental Balance Sheet Information Assets And Liabilities, Lessee [Table Text Block] Assets And Liabilities, Lessee [Table Text Block] Maturities of Operating Lease Liabilities Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity [Table Text Block] Maturities of Operating Leases Accounted for Under ASC 840 Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Lessee, Lease, Description [Table] Lessee, Lease, Description [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items] Remaining lease terms Lessee, Operating Lease, Remaining Lease Term Lessee, Operating Lease, Remaining Lease Term New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] ASU No. 2016-02 Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Operating lease ROU assets Total lease liability Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, Net of Tax Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Cost of services Cost of Goods and Services Sold Gross profit Gross Profit Selling and administrative expenses Selling, General and Administrative Expense Interest and other expenses Provision for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net earnings Weighted average shares - basic (in shares) Weighted average shares - diluted (in shares) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Foreign currency translation Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Translation gain (loss) on net investment hedge, net of income taxes of $(7.8) and $(12.9), respectively Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Translation loss on long-term intercompany loans Accumulated Translation Gain (Loss) On Intercompany Loans [Member] Accumulated Translation Gain (Loss) On Intercompany Loans [Member] Defined benefit pension plans and Retiree health care plan Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated other comprehensive loss AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Defined benefit pension plans, net of income taxes of $(23.1) and $(23.2), respectively Retiree health care plan, net of income taxes of $2.0 for both 2019 and 2018 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Total shareholders' equity Accumulated other comprehensive loss, income taxes AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Tax Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Staffing and Interim Staffing and Interim [Member] Staffing and Interim [Member] Outcome-Based Solutions and Consulting Outcome-Based Solutions and Consulting [Member] Outcome-Based Solutions and Consulting [Member] Permanent Recruitment Permanent Recruitment [Member] Permanent Recruitment [Member] Other Products and Services, Other [Member] Products and Services, Other [Member] Timing of Transfer of Good or Service [Axis] Timing of Transfer of Good or Service [Axis] Timing of Transfer of Good or Service [Domain] Timing of Transfer of Good or Service [Domain] Services transferred over time Transferred over Time [Member] Services transferred at a point in time Transferred at Point in Time [Member] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Revenue Supplemental balance sheet information Assets and Liabilities, Lessee [Abstract] Operating Leases Operating Lease, Assets And Liabilities, Lessee [Abstract] Operating Lease, Assets And Liabilities, Lessee [Abstract] Operating lease liabilities - current Operating Lease, Liability, Current Operating lease liabilities - long-term Total operating lease liabilities Calculations of Net Earnings Per Share - Basic and Diluted Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Deferred revenue Contract with Customer, Liability Revenue recognized related to amounts reported as deferred revenue at prior year end Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized Revenue Recognition Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Capital in Excess of Par Value Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income Treasury Stock Treasury Stock [Member] Non-Controlling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance, beginning of period (in shares) Shares, Issued Balance, beginning of period Unrealized gain reclassified due to new accounting guidance on investments Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Net earnings Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income (loss) Issuances under equity plans (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Issuances under equity plans Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Share-based compensation expense Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Repurchases of common stock Treasury Stock, Value, Acquired, Cost Method Noncontrolling interest transactions Noncontrolling Interest Transactions Noncontrolling Interest Transactions Balance, end of period (in shares) Balance, end of period Share-based compensation expense Consideration received from share-based awards Sale of Stock, Consideration Received on Transaction