Temp work is on the rise – from working holiday makers, to return to work mums, and candidates looking to fill a gap. But before you delve into the world of temping, make sure you are ready!

1. Be Available



Most temp roles that come through are last minute, which means you need make yourself available. Keep your phone on loud, always return your recruiter’s call, and let them know if you won’t be available at certain times so they can accommodate.

2. Be a YES person

You’re temping – there is no need to be picky. You won’t be there forever and if you want to make a good impression with your recruiter, say yes to things you normally wouldn’t. This will lead to more repeat assignments, because your recruiter will contact you first knowing that you’re a YES person.

3. Consider the look of your CV

If you have done multiple temp assignments, don’t go into lots of depth in each one on your cv, this just makes it unnecessarily lengthy. Consider putting temp roles under a sub heading with a short list of bullet points with an overview of your main duties in your temp roles to keep it clear and concise.

4. Keep in touch with your recruiter

We recruiters meet A LOT of temp candidates. The ones that stick in our minds are those who keep in regular contact with us – an email/call 1 to 2 times a week with your movements is well received & greatly appreciated!

5. Only Temp if you are serious about it

We appreciate that things happen & circumstances change, but please consider it carefully before agreeing to be called about temp roles. There is nothing more frustrating than candidates pulling out of processes at the last minute. As a temp, you are there as a support net/problem solver – don’t cause more problems by being flaky.

6. Commit to the full length of the assignment you are in

This may depend on the role you are in, but if there is a valid reason for needing to finish a position early, ensure you give your recruiter plenty of notice to let them find a replacement. You want to keep this relationship strong for future reference and leaving early will let them down.

7. Turn up to assignments early!

This should go without saying, but you are representing the agency you are working for and turning up for a role early gets everything off to a good start.

8. Ask your manager for more work

If you finish everything assigned to you, ask for more! Being a proactive temp is valued by clients greatly and may result in your assignment being extended.

Temping is a great way to earn extra income while maintaining flexibility and gaining experience, but it does require you to be prepared. Your recruiter is your best resource here, so help them out and be the best temp you can be! It benefits both of you at the end of the day.