Tempting Benefits of taking on a temp job

John • July 15, 2021

If you have been considering temporary work, now may be the perfect time to enter the market. The ABS reported in 2012 that nearly 2.2 million Australians (19%) were employed on a casual or temporary basis. Companies may consider employing temporary staff for any number of reasons including assisting with special projects, covering extended leave of employees, allowing greater flexibility of staff numbers to fit company needs, or trialing candidates before hiring them permanently. But let’s look at the benefits from the vantage point of you, the potential employee!

  1. Find work quickly
    If you would like to get back into work sooner rather than later, taking on a temporary role can often be a much shorter process than securing a permanent role within the same company.

  2. Create your own schedule
    Do you have other commitments outside work, such as family or study? Are you on a working holiday visa or have a long holiday booked? If so, temporary employment may be just the right thing for you. Unlike a more traditional role, temping can afford you greater flexibility and control over your schedule. You can choose to work in short term, long term, or contract assignments to fit in and around your chosen lifestyle.

  3. That temporary assignment could become permanent
    A temporary assignment is a great way to prove your worth to a company, and witha notable work ethic and personality, you can utilise a temporary assignment as a way to get your foot in the door. If you want to stand out, you will need to be a fast learner and be willing to work hard. Always arriving on time (or early) and staying late when needed and taking on additional responsibility are ways to grab the attention of your employer, who may extend your assignment or offer a permanent role.

  4. Gain new skills and experiences
    If you have recently graduated or would like to try a new career, temporary assignments may allow you to quickly learn new skills, be exposed to a range of systems and procedures, and trial different companies and industries to see what is right for you before committing to a permanent role.

  5. Take on a variety of new challenges
    Temporary roles are available in a range of businesses: international organisations, not-for-profit, SMEs, locally-owned businesses, and government departments, as well as across a number of industries including financial services, FMCG, healthcare, manufacturing, security, and more.

  6. Build your network
    The company you're temping with may not have a vacancy when your assignment ends, but if you have made a good impression, you may leave with solid references. These connections may lead to other longer term positions in the future. Your temp consultant will also be very keen to keep you working if you have proven yourself to be reliable and a hard worker.

  7. Close gaps on your resume
    It can be hard to explain prolonged periods of unemployment/inactivity to a potential employer. Keep your skills fresh and close any gaps by taking on a temporary assignment. Maintaining a solid timeline of employment where possible can give you a competitive advantage in the job market.

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