Top Tips to Successful Temping

1. Introduction

Definition "lasting or meant to last only for a time; held or occupied during limited time, not permanent" - Or Is It?

There are over 1.7 million people in the UK today who make a career out of temping, this currently accounts for 7% of our workforce, and in short temping is big business

For many joining the temporary workforce is a short term measure, a means to an end, but for some it can offer a career, permanent opportunities, increased skills and exposure to different industry sectors. All sorts of people temp for different reasons, even if you have not temped yourself, you are likely to at some point have come across temps in your own office, covering absence, holidays or supporting the organisation over busy periods.

Viewing your temporary assignment, as an opportunity will make it a more enjoyable and rewarding experience - who knows what you could get out of it.

2. Top Tips

Positive Attitude

When your known round the office as the "Temp" rather than by your name it can be difficult to remain positive, but with a good attitude and a friendly outlook you should quickly be able to make friends and earn respect. Remember you are there to support the organisation through a difficult period, try to be as helpful as possible.

Ask Questions

No matter how trivial the question may seem, ask, this could save future embarrassment. You cannot be expected to know everything, so it is better to check rather than risk making mistakes that will make you look incapable and cause difficulties for the Organisation.

Look For Additional Duties

You may find yourself at times with little to do, don't spend this time reading magazines, updating your CV, phoning your friends or surfing the net, instead ask the Department Manager for extra duties, or if there is anything you can help the team with. This will help you win friends and influence; it will also make the temporary assignment more interesting for you.

Accept The Assignments That Are Offered

The whole nature of temping suggests that a degree of flexibility is required. You really should consider all temporary work that is offered, if the aim of the game is to make money then you really cannot afford to be too fussy about what and where you want to temp. Temping is an ideal way of learning about companies and industries.

Meet & Exceed The Expectations

Once you have started your temporary assignment, try to do more than what is expected of you, show enthusiasm, gain respect and show your capabilities to their full potential, who knows where it could lead.

Loyalty

If you are planning on making a career out of temping then it is important you register with a good and reputable agency. One of the key requirements of making the Agency and Candidate relationship work is loyalty. If you commit to an Agency to do an Assignment on their behalf then it is always best practice to carry out and fulfil your promises.

Add Value

Remember why organisations utilise temporary workers, they need your skills and expertise to help them through difficult times, you are not there to add to the workload. Turn up on time, if you are seeking permanent work and attending interviews with other organisations try to make these before or after hours, even within your allotted lunch hour is better than taking ½ days.

Sign up with a reputable temping agency and kick start your temporary career.