Tempted By Temping?

Looking for a new job? Try temping. Temporary work will provide an income — and could well turn into a permanent job.
Jonny Breeze, founder of London-based media and entertainment recruitment agency Yellow Cat, says: “Since October, we've noticed an 80 per cent increase in demand for temporary staff compared with this time last year, and many of our temps are offered permanent positions.”

If you've never temped before, be prepared. Analyse your skills. Which could you sell as a temp? Administration, office skills, project management or financial skills are transferable to any sector, so choose a multi-sector recruitment agency, or check target company websites.

If you are specialist, choose specialist agencies. Temps can earn more than staff in the equivalent permanent job, especially if they have specialist technical skills.
For instance, an experienced online advertising copywriter could earn £250 to £300 a day, which works out at about £70,000 a year, but permanent staff in the same type of job earn £45,000 to £50,000, according to events and communications recruit¬ment specialist Xchange-team Group.

Don't put yourself forward for jobs requiring skills that you are not confident about, and most companies recruiting temps won't have much time to train you if you lack those skills.

On your first day, take a notebook and write down ways to do things, to save asking questions later to busy staff. Carina Bauer, of IMEX, which runs the annual IMEX incentive travel exhibition, recruits many temps in her business. She says: “Making notes shows that you are serious about the job and keen to get it right.” “Show an interest in the company and its goals,” advises Margaret Maupin, from Xchangeteam Group. Research the firm and show you are keen to help it achieve its aims. Don't just do the minimum.

“Be enthusiastic, and if your previous experience proves there are better ways to do things, suggest them,” says Simon Dudley.
Take responsibility. ‘Never answer a customer's ques¬tion with “I'm just a temp, I don't know”,’ says Mrs Bauer. ‘Find out what the inquirer wanted to know and remember for next time.’

Be passionate about the job. Show initiative: anticipate what has to be done and get on with it. If you finish a task, ask if there is anything more you can do.
The more people you know, the more likely you are to be asked to do further temp work or even to stay on permanently.

Find out who is responsible for hiring and get yourself in front of them. Ensure they know you are looking for a permanent job.
If you are offered permanent work, be realistic about your salary.