If you?re attracted by the flexibility that temping work offers, make sure you?ve got a good idea of what to expect...
What are the pros of temping?
There are many advantages and benefits to temping, including:
- You?ll benefit from a lot of variety and broad experience.
- You?ll be exposed to new skills and different sectors.
- Meet a wide range of people.
- Work with various levels of management.
- Take on different levels of responsibility.
- Learn about different organisational methods.
- Work in some prestigious companies.
- Work only when you want.
What are the cons of temping?
If you?re thinking, it?s a good idea to be aware of the downsides:
- You might have to leave a job after you get to know the people you are working with.
- You may feel you?re given the boring jobs that no one else wants.
- Sometimes you may be thrown into work situations without guidance or clear instruction on what needs to be done.
- Uncertainty of consistent work.
- Planning your schedule can be difficult.
- A long period of temping can look bad on a CV.
How do I find a temporary job?
You can find employment agencies specialising in temporary catering jobs in the Yellow Pages. Here are some tips to get the most out of them:
- Make yourself stand out Keep in regular contact and they are more likely to find you the jobs you want.
- Know your job requirements Ask the agency to list the variables associated with different jobs: pay range, hours, locations etc. Then let the agency know what you can accept.
- Take advantage of them Take any opportunity to be trained and to learn new skills and expertise. Stress that pay is not your only consideration.
Can I expect to be trained?
Not necessarily. Because you are temporary, your employer may not have the time or inclination to train you.
Are there long-term implications of temping?
Be aware that temporary staff are often the first to go in periods of financial difficulty. And if, later, you are looking for a permanent job, you may find that employers wanting reliable, loyal and committed staff may by put off by a long period of temping on your CV.