As Inspire HQ’s temporary recruitment specialist, I’m regularly talking with, interviewing and placing candidates into temporary contracts. Businesses utilise temporary workers for a variety of reasons, however, due to the current skill shortages, a common reason to engage a temporary worker is due to a staff resignation.
When briefing the temporary worker about the role I’m recruiting, I always inform them of the reason the vacancy exists and how long we anticipate the assignment to be for. In some instances, our clients will be open to considering the temporary worker for their permanent vacancy. It’s important to remember that if you’re engaged in a temporary assignment where there may be the prospect of permanent employment, it does not automatically mean that you will be offered the job. If permanent employment is your end game, here are some of my tips to be considered for a temp to perm opportunity:
Attitude is everything: Your attitude and work ethic is something you have complete control of and first impressions count! From day one, treat the assignment as if it was your role permanently. It can be little things such as your presentation, arriving early for work each day, settling in and being ready to work by the time you’re due to commence. Be reliable and consistent, finish all of your tasks by the end of your shift, and keep your manager well informed (in advance) if there is a deadline you can’t meet. Allow your employer to see your work ethic and your commitment; day in, day out.
Go above and beyond: Once you’ve been provided a handover and trained on the requirements of your role, work diligently to perform those tasks to the best of your ability within a timely manner. Once you’ve completed your tasks, demonstrate your ability to go above and beyond your job description by asking for additional work or the opportunity to learn new tasks. This will showcase your willingness to learn and enthusiasm to complete your tasks.
Express your interest: If you’re interested in being considered for the permanent opportunity, it’s important to express your interest, but also to consider how you will feel if you’re not offered the role. Will you be able to accept the decision and continue in the temporary assignment? If the answer is yes, talk to your recruiter about the process you need to go through to officially express your interest. This will most likely include submitting a formal application to ensure there is a consistent recruitment process for all candidates.
Be prepared: If you’re successful in securing an interview for the permanent opportunity, use the knowledge that you have, based on the tasks you’ve been performing to demonstrate how your skill set and experience are aligned to the role. Identify what duties you aren’t currently performing and use the interview process to ask questions such as “What additional training will be provided to me to ensure I can succeed in this role?” or “What opportunities are there for future growth?” Remember, the interview process is for both parties to determine if it’s going to be the right fit.
Ask for feedback: Throughout your temporary placement, check in with your direct Manager and ask them if they have any feedback on your work performance. Feedback is a powerful tool that will allow you to continue to learn and grow. By asking for feedback throughout your placement, it will demonstrate to your potential employer your willingness to improve and to receive feedback.
Hopefully, some of my tips will allow you to put your best foot forward in your temporary position and possibly secure permanent employment. It’s also important to be prepared and willing to accept the decision if you’re not offered the role; despite your disappointment. Continuing to consistently perform in your temporary assignment from start to finish will be a lasting impression that you make on the employer. With this in mind, you will be surprised what doors may be opened to you for future opportunities.
