Temporary Assignments: a Viable Path to Direct Employment

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Did you know that temporary jobs are often the first to open up at the end of a recession?

Although business starts to pick-up when a recession is over, many employers are still hesitant about hiring full-time employees.  To handle the extra workload – without adding extra employees – these companies bring in temporary workers.

When it comes to finding direct employment, a temporary employee has a key advantage over a traditional job seeker.  Namely, he already has a “foot in the door” with an employer and is participating in a working interview.  If the temporary worker performs well while on assignment, and the employer’s need becomes permanent, the temporary has a great shot at landing a full-time offer.  In fact, according to the American Staffing Association (ASA):

Temporary and contract work provides a bridge to permanent employment.  People can try out prospective employers and showcase their skills for permanent jobs.

  • 88% of staffing employees say that temporary or contract work made them more employable.
  • 77% of staffing employees say it’s a good way to obtain a permanent job.
  • 80% of staffing clients say staffing firms offer a good way to find people who can become permanent employees.

Bottom line, working as a temporary employee is a practical way to find a full-time job – especially as we emerge from the recession.  Here are a few tips for landing a great temporary job, and then turning that assignment in to a direct position:

  • Pick the right type of staffing service.  Make sure you register with a staffing firm that regularly places people in your field.  Snelling Staffing Services places people in a wide range of practice areas and industries, including administrative, light industrial, professional, technical and medical positions.
  • Accept a variety of assignments. Be flexible when considering assignments.  Even if you are overqualified for a temporary job, you may want to accept it if it’s with a promising employer.  While you’re there, you’ll have the opportunity to network and showcase your work ethic.
  • Go above and beyond the call of duty. Think of your temporary position as a working interview.  While on assignment, you never know who may be evaluating you, so do more than what’s expected.  If you work hard, show enthusiasm and take initiative, you’re more likely to get noticed and be considered for direct employment.
  • Network while on assignment. Take the time to get to know your co-workers, supervisors and (if possible) managers in other departments.  Make sure people know you’re looking for a permanent position.  Promote your skills to your supervisor, especially if you don’t have an opportunity to showcase them while on assignment.  Even if your current assignment doesn’t lead to direct employment, you can make valuable business contacts who may aid your job search in the future.
  • Prepare a short personal sales pitch. What would you say if your assignment supervisor approached you and asked, “What kind of job are you really looking for?”  If you’re not sure, spend a little time developing a 15-second personal sales pitch.  Be sure it includes your key skills, the type of job you want and the value you could bring to the organization.  Practice your sales pitch with a friend to be sure it’s to-the-point and easy to understand.

Snelling Staffing Services – Your Path to Direct Employment

Across the nation, Snelling focuses on connecting great people like you with leading employers.  If you’re looking for direct employment, consider working on assignment as a Snelling temporary.  We can put you to work quickly while helping you search for direct opportunities.  Contact your local Snelling office or search available jobs in your area.