Over the past several years, employers have embraced the benefits of hiring temporary employees. Employers can evaluate an employee on the job before they hire them permanently or expand their workforce during a particularly busy season. It is both a cost-efficient and time-saving way to address staffing challenges.
A 2019 study performed by TrueBlue and EMSI concluded that the number of temporary jobs available will increase by 8.5% between 2019 and 2025, whereas full-time positions will only increase by 6%. So, while you may still prefer the stability of the steady income of a permanent job, you may be wise to view a temp position as a potential stepping stone to a full-time employment opportunity.
Is it possible?
If your goal is to become a permanent employee, you need to begin your job search with that end in mind. Accepting the first employment opportunity that comes your way could result in disappointment if your employer truly only needs you to fill in for a few months. Take the time to learn about the position and the company before you accept an offer. What is the company looking for? Do they have any hiring policies that would prevent them from bringing you on board as a temp?
If you are working with a Utah temp agency, let them know you want a permanent position. Be sure you understand their policies about transitioning from a temporary to a permanent job with the company where they placed you.
Once you have determined that the potential to advance is there, you will need to take steps to prove that you are the right person and worth the time and effort to hire permanently.
Standing Out in a Crowd
If your employer regularly hires temps, chances are that they have seen many come and go. Convincing them that you are the one they need to keep is a tall order. Here are some tips to help you and your work be noticed.
Make a Good Impression
The way you present yourself on your first day says a lot about you, and the conclusions your employer draws will stick with them. Be sure to arrive on time, not only on the first day but every day. Make sure you are reliable in every way. Turning in quality work on time is a trait highly valued by employers and managers. Nobody likes pestering someone regarding late or substandard work. Completing tasks well and on time allows your management to trust you, making you invaluable to the company.
Be Proactive
Start your temporary job with the mindset of a permanent employee. In addition to completing your tasks, seek ways to learn more and help in other areas. Because you are a temp, others may not be anxious to train you, but be observant and offer your help wherever possible. Learn to anticipate the needs of your coworkers and team leaders. Your fresh perspective can offer unique solutions to existing problems and show you are a true asset.
Go Above and Beyond
Often, employers hire a temporary employee to fill a company’s gap or need. Be more than just a placeholder. Show commitment to your employer by being willing to do more than what is being asked of you, even if it requires you to come in early or stay late. Strive to learn more about the company and ask questions. Your inquisitive nature will show that you are genuinely interested in the company and how you can contribute to achieving company goals.
Build a Network
Because you are only there for a short period, it is easy to go unnoticed. Working in any capacity is an excellent opportunity to expand your network of contacts. Talk to your coworkers. Talking to them is a great way to learn about the culture in the office. Developing a rapport with the rest of the team could lead to a recommendation down the road. Introduce yourself to managers throughout the office as well. If you are not hired full-time with this company, they could be a great resource for finding another opportunity.
Maintain a Positive Attitude
Your temp position may not be glamorous, but don’t let that affect your demeanor. Keeping your attitude in check will not only help you focus on doing your job well, but it will contribute to the company culture as well. A cheerful and confident disposition is an excellent addition to any team and will help sell your skills and contributions. Be careful, though. Too much confidence can come off as arrogance.
A temporary position may not be your ideal job right now, but it can open doors for the future if you approach it with the proper mindset. A temporary staffing firm can guide you through the process of finding the right fit for you with the potential to be hired permanently.
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Spend some time learning to know the company and the position before accepting a job offer. Once you have decided that there is an avenue for advancement, you must take action to prove that you are a qualified candidate and are worth the time and effort to be hired permanently.
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