Work as a temporary employee!
For uninformed job seekers, words like “temp” and “temping” may have negative connotations. But when you consider all of benefits temp work offers, one thing becomes clear: Assignments are a smart, career-building alternative to a traditional job.
Here are just a few of the ways temporary assignments through a reputable staffing agency can help you improve your marketability, grow in your career, and land a great direct position:
Build transferable job skills.
Transferable job skills are ones you can apply in a variety of positions, industries and work environments. No matter what field you specialize in, transferable skills can help you learn more quickly, adapt well in new situations, and perform at your best. Here are a few of the skills you can develop as a temporary that will serve you well in any career:
- communication skills
- organizational skills
- soft skills
- people-management skills
- problem-solving skills
With each new assignment you complete, you can build your arsenal of transferable skills, strengthen your resume and make yourself more attractive to potential employers.
Take advantage of free training.
Most staffing firms provide free training for their field associates. And we’re not just talking about typing; training areas range from advanced word processing, spreadsheet and other software skills to assembly and soldering.
Access the hidden job market.
When employers partner with staffing services, they often do not advertise on their own. As a result, many assignments and direct-hire positions are available exclusively through the staffing firm!
Snag a direct job.
Temporary positions are a great way to find a full-time job. While on assignment, you have the chance to showcase your skills and work ethic, and check out the culture and work environment. If there’s a good fit between you and the role, the employer can work with the staffing firm to transition you to direct employment.
Jump-start your career change.
If you feel like you’re stuck in a dead-end industry, want more responsibility or are interested in transitioning to a new field, assignments are a perfect way to test the waters. With a broad range of projects, assignments and employers to choose from, working through an employment agency allows you to:
- try out new work environments and job responsibilities
- acquire skills in a new field
- evaluate employers and industries, to see where your interests lie
- make a fresh start in a new career
In this earlier post, the JobFuel Launch Team shares tips for working through a staffing service to facilitate a career change.
Ready to give temporary work a try?
JobFuel has thousands of jobs you won’t find anywhere else. It’s 100% free to job seekers – so what are you waiting for? Search jobs here:
Construction / Skilled Trades Jobs
Manufacturing / Warehouse Jobs