How to Stand Out as a Good Temp
Copyright (c) 2011 Alison Withers
Many people are nervous of taking on Temp work because of the effect they fear it will have on the CV, where it is assumed that too many temp positions raise eyebrows about commitment and experience.
However, there are positives to being a temp for a while, especially for someone early in their career but with good word processing, administrative, typing and shorthand skills, because it provides experience in several settings and can help the person identify the kind of organisation they would like to work in permanently.
It can also provide a body of experience for anyone wanting to build experience and skills to eventually progress their career to top PA in London to a senior executive.
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where full time jobs are expected to be harder to get as unemployment rises in the current economic climate it can help get a foot in the door and keep at least some money coming in.
There are ways of maximising the chance of turning a temp position into a permanent one.
They include choosing a <a href="http://www.rmsrecruitment.com">recruitment agency that has a good track record in placing temps and in providing them with the proper back-up, such as proper job sheets, some information on the company the temp is being placed with and being careful to match your circumstances and requirements with a suitable company.
Often the temp arrives at their placement to find that no-one has the time to explain much and they are given a pile of work but without the back-up or knowledge of the people they might need to speak to, such as IT support.
The first thing to do once a temp position is confirmed is to thoroughly research the industry sector and the company's website to have at least some information on arrival.
It goes without saying that arriving on time, or even early would be a good move to show that you have given yourself time to gather any information you might need and meet the people you are working for.
Equally looking smart, clean and appropriate is important. Arriving armed with a notebook and pen implies being prepared and efficient too.
For anyone hoping to make an impression and perhaps convert the temporary to a permanent position, people skills are important. Employers, especially at the moment, are likely to be keeping a firm eye on costs and if they can avoid spending on recruitment for a position by taking on someone who is already at least partly familiar with their company's culture and systems by taking on a temp, they are likely to consider the temp if they have made the right impression.
Offering to bring back lunch for people, make a round of tea or coffee and perhaps socialising with them after work can make all the difference. Remembering people's names and what they do also helps.
Finally, being alert and listening, for example when someone says the photocopier is out of paper and then offering to take care of it will be appreciated. It might also be wise to avoid using a mobile phone during working hours to avoid giving the impression that you know you are only there temporarily.
About the Author
Many people worry that temping will cause questions about commitment when it appears on a CV, but temping can be useful experience for progressing to a top London PA, if the candidate prepares well and chooses the right recruitment agency. By Ali Withers. http://www.rmsrecruitment.com
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