Unemployment: Turning to Temp Work
By Michele Blandino
Let’s face it: unemployed is not a good thing to be, yet for most of us, it’s likely that we will spend at least some portion of our professional life without a job. Many people – particularly those who may have received a severance package - choose to spend this “forced vacation” putting forth a full-time effort to find another position while others will turn to temporary employment - temping – as a source of income while trying to find another job.
Once considered to be an option available only to clerical workers or workers without the skills needed to succeed as a regular full-time employee, thanks to the advent of agencies that specialize in specific industries, temping has become a viable option for even some of the most highly skilled. In fact, the National Association of Temporary Staffing Services reports that 90% of all companies utilize temporary employees. Even so, not every employee will be suited for temporary work.
The Benefits of Temping
One of the most appealing aspects of temporary work is its flexibility. As a temporary employee, you are free to accept whatever assignment you choose and work as much – or as little – as your needs require. Many temporary workers will work 3-4 days per week and use the remaining time to conduct their job search.
Many workers turn to temporary agencies as a way to put a newly acquired skill to use and gain valuable experience that will aid them in their pursuit of full-time employment. This attribute of temping is particularly attractive to women looking to re-enter the workforce after being home with their children. Likewise, some workers will sign-on with a temp agency in the hope of being able to acquire new skills or gain exposure to different types of work environments.
And, not surprisingly, many temporary assignments turn into offers of full-time employment, a fact that is not lost on many of the nearly 2 million people who are put to work by temporary agencies each day.
The Disadvantages
As is most things, there are some drawbacks to temporary work. One of the biggest obstacles is the unpredictability; while some temporary assignments are long-term, just as many are day-to-day, meaning it’s difficult to know where, and if, you will be working from one day to the next.
And, along with the unpredictable schedule comes erratic paydays. Since you are only paid for the days you work, your paychecks can vary (sometimes widely) each pay period.
Then, there’s the loneliness and isolation that often comes with being “just a temp”. Further, since many companies hire temporary workers to complete tasks that their full-time staff isn’t willing to complete, many temps are looked upon as second-tier employees.
How to Choose a Temp Agency
If you decide to try your luck in the temporary employment market, you will need to register with an agency. Not surprisingly, many agencies allow you to register via the Internet. Or, if you prefer, you can check the yellow pages for listings. Either way, there are a few things you should consider when deciding on an agency.
First, what type of work are you looking for? As mentioned earlier, there are some very specialized agencies, so if you have a highly specialized skill, this may be the best route.
Next, since assignments are made based on availability, you will need to decide if you want to work full-time or part-time. While part-time assignments will give you the time needed to conduct your search for full-time employment, it may also limit the number of assignments you will receive.
Ask how often you will be paid and make sure your budget can accommodate that schedule. Some firms only pay monthly which may be difficult for someone accustomed to receiving a weekly paycheck.
When you are offered an assignment, ensure that it makes sense to accept the assignment. In other words, you need to factor in the cost of travel and the percentage that you will need to return to the agency. If, after making these allowances, you are not satisfied with the resulting pay rate, consider declining the assignment.
Finally, as the agency what their process is for dealing with problems you may encounter on the job-site. Will they intervene on your behalf, or will you be on your own? You should feel comfortable that you can call the agency in the event of a problem.
