How to make yourself indispensable as a temp?

The landscape of the employment market is changing and more and more of us are in pursuit of that perfect job and refuse to settle. This burning desire to land the perfect job presents significant challenges for all ages for various reasons and therefore can take a considerable amount of time before one doesn’t have to worry where the next pay check is coming from. In contrast to this, many are also setting up and investing in their own ventures, though still need to pay the bills, as a result the attraction to temping is continuing to grow in popularity.

For some temping is a necessity not a choice and for others temping allows one to take control of their lifestyle.

Millennials in particular are enthusiastic members of the ‘Temp Club’, some may say this is because as a generation they are too picky when it comes to their first job, are entitled and enveloped in a world of social media with an unrealistic perception of reality. Whilst others may say the digital disruption, increased competition along with a lack of realistic careers advice from the education system coupled with parental pressure is leaving many unprepared for the professional world, though that’s a debate for a braver man. What we do know is that many are choosing this route and so here are some tips…

Do your research…

This starts before you have secured a temp job, research agencies and companies that align with your interests and send your CV in for their perusal – don’t be that person who picks up the phone and asks questions to which the answers can be clearly deducted from the webpage. Once you have secured a temp job, familiarise yourself with the company and the industry; knowledge is power and the more you know the more confident you will feel.

Communicate…

If a temp position becomes vacant it means there is an urgent problem that needs a solution and you, the temporary worker are the solution. Open communication, what are your reasons for temping, what sort of assignments are you looking for, be honest about your availability etc. The ability to communicate clearly through different channels is a prerequisite in the temporary world; radio silence will limit your opportunities.

Manage your own expectations and be curious…

Be realistic! It’s unlikely that every temp job is going to tick all the boxes on paper. You may want to work in the arts and the idea of working in boutique finance is a big turn off, though each temp job is a great opportunity to try on different hats. You might hate it or you might develop a new skill. Jumping out of our comfort zone is how we grow.

Put the kettle on…

After you’ve arrived and received a tsunami of information, offering to assist others in the office with their caffeine fix will demonstrate you’re settled and that no job is too small.

Exercise your common sense…

Bringing a temp in is an expensive resource and so you best be prepared to bring your A-game. Typically, there is little time to warm up and you need to be able to hit the ground running, once there has been a handover. Just get on with it, don’t wait for work to arrive at your desk, do your best solve others problems. Know when to tone it up and tone it down.

Temping is like gymnastics, it’s better if you’re flexible…

The temp market moves fast and flexibility and adaptability are the key to success! Be flexible where you can with regards to your availability, hourly rate, nature of the work you take on and sector you work in. Remember it’s a temp job and it’s better to keep the momentum going and money coming in and enhance your CV with directly relevant experience or transferable skills.

Wear an attitude of gratitude…

There are so many reasons why people find themselves temping, though it is important at the end of the day to be grateful for the opportunity and experience whether it be a good or bad one; no problems, no job!
Written by Lauren Lewis