Author: Jojo Varona
Here are some tips to consider while you are doing temporary work.
1. Be organized
Temporary workers can often find themselves working a variety of shifts and hours around other commitments. To avoid lateness or forgetting a shift completely, record the work you have agreed to in a diary or planner and refer to it daily. Doing so, will keep you one step ahead.
2. Commit to your hours
Although much of temp work is flexible, it is important to keep the hours you agree to in the first place. If you are studying or have other commitments, this comes first but be professional regarding your assignments. It is better to not accept an assignment, than to accept something to which you can’t commit.
3. Get the most out of your assignment
Treat each temp assignment as a learning opportunity. Use each assignment as a way of gaining new skills, making contacts and asking questions. This will prove invaluable to your resume and increase your employability.
4. Be professional
Although you are a temp member of staff, your role is just as valued as other employees. Being a temp worker is not a reason to let your standards slip. Be as professional as possible to make the best impression – remember, the contacts made in these jobs will remember you and could help get you where you want to be in your career.
5. Network
You’ll be meeting an array of new people in your assignments; observe and ask questions about what they do. The important thing is to make a good impression – if another role came up, your new contacts would then think of you first.
6. Be realistic about your availability
If you need work to fit in around your studies and other commitments, only accept what you can manage. It could be tempting to accept multiple assignments, but only accept assignments that you can realistically complete. Don’t overbook yourself.
7. Take advantage of the flexible nature of temping
Temping can be as flexible as you desire – if you have opportunities you have been wanting to pursue, temping gives you the luxury of being able to explore these while gaining skills for life at work at the same time – all without the burden of financial worry.
8. Add your experiences to your resume
Doing temp assignments is a great resume builder. Whether you have just worked ten short-term jobs or have recently spent several months working in a full-time role, all the work you have done should be included in your resume. Review what you’ve learned in each assignment and put it down on your resume and online profile for potential employers to see.