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Make Temp Work a Tempting Job Search Strategy

By Jaymie Pompeowork-collaboration-circle
Contributor, Career Services

Chances are, you’ve heard of temping and doubt there’s much value it offers. Maybe you’ve sneered at the notion of temp work, thinking it only involves sporadic assignments for lower level administration jobs. As someone who found success in using this method as part of a job search strategy, I can safely recommend a change in perspective.

Nowadays, temp jobs are far from menial labor as they can involve high skilled positions in fields such as health care, information technology, engineering, law, and accounting – just to name a few. While you may start with short-term assignments, there is always potential to expand on more opportunities though permanent job offers, networking, and on the job training.

Whether you are new to the workforce, relocating, or have the flexibility for a change, don’t be quick to dismiss temping. Consider it a productive way to enhance your job search strategy – where else can you get paid to research career paths, feel out company cultures, and have industry professionals to connect with at your reach. If you decide to try it out, make sure you add the following to your to-do list:

Build your network: Temp agencies typically work for an amazing array of reputable companies that some of us only dream about working for. Regardless of the position you are assigned – from file clerk to accountant – you must take total advantage and find ways to network with industry professionals that surround you. Don’t come across as the lowly temp – find ways to get involved, seek out additional duties to showcase specialized skills, and go to lunch with other employees to help expand your professional network.

Broaden your skills: Not only is there a great opportunity to learn another line of business and receive on the job training, but some temp agencies will invest in you by offering certain training programs. From brushing up on your Microsoft Office skills to computer certification courses, you’ll be able to keep your skills up to date and leave with more knowledge and experience to add on your resume.

Be open to career opportunities: Temping can be a great way for you to test the waters and see what it would be like to work at a particular organization. Not only does the experience allow you to benefit from knowing insider information such as internal positions that may be up and coming, but it also allows the employer to see first-hand how you perform. Consider it as an extended job interview to ensure there is a cultural fit.

Remember, the temp experience is what you make of it. To be successful, you must be self-motivated, moderately assertive, and very flexible. Even though the goal of a temp agency is to fill vacancies with superior talent, don’t sit back and be a passive job seeker. While they have the ability to connect you to quality organizations, it’s on you to make it a job search advantage.

Related: [Turn That Temp Job Into a Permanent Position]

About the Author:  Jaymie completed her Bachelors in Business Administration with Florida Atlantic University. Her career journey began in human resources where she handled several aspects of the employee experience such as new hire orientations, team buildings, employee relations, and exit interviews. Motivated in helping others succeed, she transitioned into higher education with American Public University System (APUS) in 2010. The experience she gained in academic advising helped shape her passion towards empowering students and alumni with their career journey, particularly those transitioning from military to civilian work. For this reason and many more, she is excited to be a Career Coach supporting interests with Homeland Security, Emergency and Disaster Management, Criminal Justice, and Security Management.

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