Given the current state of the economy, finding a permanent job is not that easy. Due to this, ‘temp work’ is somewhat gaining traction as a career option. Both employers and employees are willing to explore the temporary bit of employment, and though these occupations are not that sophisticated and not always high-paying jobs, they can lead to accomplishment in a person’s career. Success is bound to come as long as a person goes for a temp job that’s in line with their career goals, according to Felix Tuyishime, a sales agent. Just like with a permanent job offer, working a temporary job requires purposeful thinking and planning for your career and ensuring you gain the required understanding, skills, and abilities for the future growth of your career, he says. Temping can serve as a platform towards opportunities for various skills and expertise. This is due to the fact that working in temporary positions allows an employee to work in a variety of roles, industries and cultures. This way, one can have greater access to important soft skills such as versatility, and adaptability among others. Tuyishime is also of the view that as a temporary employee, you need to be adaptable. “This attribute is very important if someone wants to be retained or considered for a permanent post. Being flexible allows you to not only work effectively but it also enables you to get acquainted with your working environment.” Career experts recommend putting in as much effort when working a temporary job as you would your dream job. Dress for job, give it your all and work on your networks. It’s relevant to approach your work with the same enthusiasm, persistence, commitment and drive as you would if it was a full-time job. Maintain professionalism, be punctual and keep a positive attitude for you and fellow workers. Even as a temporary employee, Winnie Umuhoza a businesswoman advises to always solicit for feedback from your employer. She believes that knowing where you stand helps you to be aware of your strengths and weaknesses. And that this gives you room to improve on where you are lacking or expound on one’s point of strengths. “Find time to talk with your boss and implore useful feedback. Putting in this much effort will show them how determined you are about your job and your growth as well as that of the company,” says Umuhoza. “Request for other opportunities to be of more help around the company, do this as you also display your abilities and don’t be shy to show that you are in need of a better offer. This way, when an opportunity arises for a permanent offer, the mangers can consider you,” she adds. In addition to this, succeeding with temp jobs requires for a person to always be ready for the next big opportunity. That’s why it is said to be important to update your resume, filling it with the new skills and experience one acquires as one works.
