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.


Find the job you love I Find the right talent
Get in touch with people2people

Australia   I   United Kingdom

In business since 2002 in Australia, NZ, and the United Kingdom, people2people is an award-winning recruitment agency with people at our heart. With over 12 offices, we specialise in accounting and finance, business support, education, executive, government, HR, legal, marketing and digital, property, sales, supply chain, and technology sectors. As the proud recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Large Agency and Excellence in Candidate Care Awards, we are dedicated to helping businesses achieve success through a people-first approach.


Share insights

Recent articles

By Nicole Consterdine February 19, 2025
Looking for the best time to land a job in Australia? Data shows that August and May offer the best opportunities, while January is the most competitive. In a recent discussion, Nicole Consterdine, Recruitment Consultant at People2People, shared expert insights on how job seekers can use seasonal trends to their advantage. From optimising your job applications to leveraging networking opportunities, understanding hiring patterns is key to job search success. Want to know how to make your job search strategy work for you? Read on to discover the best times and methods to secure your next role!
By Nicole Consterdine February 18, 2025
Australia’s disability employment rate is improving, but the gap remains significant. Mandatory disability reporting could increase transparency, drive accountability, and help businesses become more inclusive. In a recent discussion, Peter Bacon, CEO of Disability Employment Australia, highlighted how employer engagement and normalising disability at work can bridge this gap. Simple workplace adjustments and better support for disclosure can make a difference. Inclusive hiring is not just ethical—it benefits businesses, too. Are you ready to make your workplace more inclusive and future-proof your hiring strategies? Read on to find out how!
By Erin Devlin February 16, 2025
Australia’s employment market is heading into 2025 with a mix of challenges and opportunities. While unemployment remains steady at 4.1%, skill shortages in healthcare, construction, and education persist. Insights from people2people Victoria Managing Director Erin Devlin and RCSA Head of Advocacy Brooke Lord reveal how legislative changes, workforce adaptability, and emerging skills like AI are shaping the market. Discover strategies for job seekers and employers to thrive amid these shifts, including insights on in-demand sectors and future trends.
By Erin Devlin February 12, 2025
With only 55% of Australians satisfied with their jobs, workplace happiness is a growing concern for businesses. Key factors influencing satisfaction include purpose at work, supportive management, and work-life balance, while stress and lack of career progression contribute to dissatisfaction. Insights from Erin Devlin, Managing Director of people2people Victoria, highlight actionable strategies, such as tailoring solutions to generational needs, improving leadership, and fostering a culture of trust and communication.
By Colleen Deere February 9, 2025
Discover how the legal market in Western Australia is evolving with insights from Colleen, people2people Perth Legal Team Leader, and Manuela Kacomanolis, Wills and Estates Solicitor at DFG Legal. Learn about the shift to digital property transactions, the impact of AI on legal advice, and the growing demand for estate planning as intergenerational wealth transfers increase. Uncover practical strategies to navigate these changes and seize emerging opportunities in the legal industry. What challenges and opportunities will define the future of WA’s legal sector?

Latest Media Features


Get in touch

Find out more by contacting one of our specialisat recruitment consultants across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Contact us
Share by: