Advantages and Disadvantages of Temporary Job

So you have left your job without a new job to go to. You haven’t done this before, your funds are starting to get rather low and you need a short term job right this very minute. Or you are bored of working in the same environment day in and day out and are looking for some variety? Or you have a wildly exciting overseas trip planned in 8 months, have left your current role and know you can not commit to a permanent position at this moment. Or unfortunately you have just been made redundant (or even worse fired) and you would like to bounce straight into another role.

All of the above (and many more) are reasons for why people seek temporary (more commonly known as ‘temp’) employment. Right, you say – I can understand that, but what exactly is temp work?

Temporary employment refers to an employment situation whereby the employee is expected to leave within a certain period of time. Temporary workers may be employed directly by an employer or by private agencies. In such situation, one will need to create a combination resume, which would be very helpful. Agencies will recruit, select and sometimes even train temporary workers and hire them out to employers. It is the perfect vehicle for a person to put on different hats, work in a broad range of different business and possibly even add new skills and experiences. Temporary workers are generally paid an hourly rate, are eligible for superannuation however as whole are not entitled to paid holiday leave or sick leave.

Temp work can be very fast paced and dynamic, with job opportunities coming and going literally every day. If you are as flexible as you can possibly be, you should have no trouble finding a temporary position to begin work in.

PRO’s OF TEMPING

1. An income – this is pretty straightforward. It is much better tobe getting paid than not getting paid!
2. Ability to learn new skills – exposure to new software is a big one here with the multitude of databases, CRM’s etc out there. Temping allows you to add another notch in your tool belt of skills on your resume.
3. Meet new people – you never know who might sit next too, meet in the kitchen or even at the water cooler (do those things still exist?)
4. Potentially lead to full time employment – if you are ultimately seeking a full time role in an industry, company or position similar to the one you are temping in you never know where it may take you. There are many benefits to being in a company, being present and visible and showcasing your skills and abilities to be possibly hired into a full-time position.

CONS OF TEMPING

1. You might end up doing work you really do not enjoy – this can lead to boredom and a lack of motivation. It is important to try to remember to remain positive and upbeat and even ask your supervisor or manager if there is any additional (read: more interesting work available!)
2. The Job will come to an end – and with that comes and end to income. If you are requiring temporary work after your assignment is scheduled to end it is best to start looking about two weeks before it is due to conclude.
3. Finding it hard to find temporary works that closely match your skills and abilities – if you happen to be an experienced Executive Assistant you may find yourself needing to take a Receptionist position if there is nothing else available.

Temp work does not appeal to everyone, however if you love variety and get bored of sitting at the same desk every day then it could be an option for you!