ALT-1 Tips for Excelling in a Temporary Job
There are basically two forms of temporary assignments; Long-term and short-term. Temping can be a lucrative career choice for many. Businesses need your skills and are more than willing to pay for them. Short-term temping is a favorite amongst those wanting a little more variety and control of their time. While long-term temping is more suited to those requiring a more stable and secure work pattern.
Long-term tempingLong term temping can range from a week up to 3 months. Companies utilize long term temps to cover vacation breaks, maternity leave, seasonal periods and a variety of other reasons.
Short-term tempingShort term temping can range from a day to a week and is utilized by companies to cover unexpected staff shortages, unusually busy workloads and other various reasons.
None of the reasons why they need temporary staff is important. What is important is that you avail yourself every opportunity to fill those positions.
What's right for you?This is your most important decision. If you like the stability of knowing how much income you'll be bringing in and enjoy a little more stability then this is your best avenue.
If you like the thrill of the unknown and the enticement of variety then there's no going past short term temping.
Select your agency carefullyThere are many agencies around and these may specialize in differing areas of industry. There is a difference in obtaining temporary work. Businesses call temp agencies because they need a position filled and most often than not, quickly.To put it simply , they need you more than you need them. You can afford to be a little picky. Make your list of agencies within your region and then take the time to interview them. That's right, you interview them. Find out what placement fields they specialize in. Ask questions about assignments, payments, frequency of work, their clients and whether they focus more on long or short term temps. Match up the services from each agency and then register with the one most suited to your huge array of skills.The right agency, combined with your skills, can ensure you never need be out of work.
Learn, learn, learnYou can never have enough knowledge with temping. Technology sees changes in everything from phones to software. Be as diverse as the industry is. Know what resources the companies around your region utilize and become proficient in them. The most common temp assignment is short term reception. Usually the least recognized and least acknowledged position in the company. However watch the place fall apart when he or she calls in sick! Keep abreast of the changes in phone technology. Familiarize yourself with everything. In a busy city you can find yourself working everyday in a different environment simply temping on phones.
Be reliable and courteousIt's great to want more freedom and if you find yourself in a position where you can afford to take a break, even better. But be mindful that for every assignment you decline, another temp is saying yes. In other words, don't bite the hand that feeds you. If you're taking a break let your temp agency know, don't just decline assignments. Even temp agencies have favorite recommendations.
Excel at what you do unobtrusivelyCompanies call on temp agencies because they're looking for the right person to do the job. Be that person. Do the task at hand. Don't take it upon yourself to change office procedures. Don't brag to your co-workers of the varied and numerous skills you possess. Don't be the focus of attention at the office water cooler. Attempt to slot in amongst your co-workers, not stand out.
Most importantly don't slack off. If for example you've been called in on a typing assignment, which they estimate will take two days and you know you can get it done in one; don't be tempted to stretch it out. Of course the extra days money would be handy, but that first impression is worth its weight in gold.Not only are you likely to get called back, but you may be recommended to others. This could lead to a steady flow of assignments and you becoming a much sought after temp.
