Job searching is almost never fun and it’s hardly ever easy. But what if you were able to try out different jobs at different companies for a limited period of time, while making money, with no strings attached? Well, that’s what temporary employment is for. Temporary employment, aka temp jobs, are a great way to get introduced to a certain positions or industries without making a full commitment to any one company. Temp work has been on-the-rise for the past few years because, just like employees, companies have embraced the “try before you buy” attitude when it comes to hiring. There are many advantages to being a temp worker — here are just a few of them.
What does temp-to-hire mean?
Temp-to-hire positions are jobs that only last for a limited period of time. Depending on the company and the industry, this could mean it’s limited to a few days, weeks or even years. Really, the parameters are set by the business, but traditionally temp jobs are used for seasonal work or to get outside help on individual projects.
Another common practice is that companies will hire a temp worker to fill a position as a sort of test run. In other words, the company will hire one or more temps until they find the ideal candidate to fill that role permanently. This creates an incentive for the temp employee to excel in their work to prove that they are worthy of becoming a full-time worker if they so desire.
Test the waters with no strings attached
The flipside of this is also true. It’s important to keep in mind that employment is a two-way street, even if it may not feel like it at certain times. A person might be the right fit for a company, but the company also has to be the right fit for the person. Otherwise, dissatisfied employees become disillusioned with their work and they’re left feeling unfulfilled. The beauty of being a temporary worker is that you’re able to put your skills to the test without worrying about severe repercussions. You have the opportunity of having a “free trial” in a role and industry. Treat it as a unique learning experience — hone your existing skills and pick up new ones. Ask lots of questions and soak up all the knowledge possible because your temp experience will prove very valuable in the future.
You’re able to try the job out and if you don’t like it, no harm no foul. Move on after the designated time period and try a different role with a different company. But if you find that you really love the temp role and you can see yourself becoming full-time in that position, you’re able to put your nose to the grindstone and show your employer that you’re invaluable so they will consider hiring you permanently.
Make connections in relevant industry
Part of being successful in any field is integrating yourself and networking with your peers. Temp work gives you the opportunity to meet a spectrum of people in many different settings. As you work with/for them, you’re able to establish some credibility for yourself (assuming you do a good job) so that even if you don’t wind up getting hired permanently, you will have built valuable connections that will come in handy in the future. Plus, if you do do a great job during your time as a temp worker, those peers and employers will be more willing to give you a good reference when you interview for the permanent position you desire.
Temp work is also a great resume builder. Having consistent and relevant experience, even if it’s at different companies, is a valuable characteristic to most employers. They will see that you’re multifaceted, integrate quickly into company culture and able to understand and meet project goals and deadlines.
The benefits of temp work are numerous — through your experiences you’re able to form valuable industry relationships, you’ll accurately assess what you desire in an employer and the type of position that most fulfills you, you’ll build your resume and acquire helpful, newfound skills for the future. Oh and of course, you’ll be making money all the while. So if you’re looking to break into the workforce or even if you’re just considering a change in industry, give us a call to see what positions we have open. Use the Summit advantage — we find the right candidate for the right company and vice versa. Get started now!
