OfficeTeam

In today’s still-unstable employment environment, temporary work is one bright spot. Many companies cut staff too deeply during the downturn and need additional personnel to meet growing demand. But they’re not yet ready to recruit for full-time staff. As a result, these organizations are turning to temporary professionals to maintain productivity and keep initiatives on track as business conditions — and the ability to hire full-time workers — slowly improve.

Companies also typically look to temporary workers first when filling full-time positions. That’s because employers are familiar with these individuals’ capabilities, work ethic and fit with the team.

Here are some tips for turning a temporary assignment into a full-time role:

1. Partner with a staffing firm. Reach out to your professional contacts for recommendations about staffing firms that specialize in your particular field. Recruiters are well connected in their local business communities and can serve as advocates for you when speaking with hiring managers. Many staffing firms also offer free training opportunities to help you build your skills and increase your marketability.

2. Clearly state your goal. Be upfront with staffing firms and potential employers that you’re ultimately looking for a full-time job. If they know that from the beginning, they may be able to place you in a role that has a better chance of leading to a full-time position.

3. Treat it the same. Once you have started an interim assignment, bring the same intensity to the job as you would a full-time position. Try to assimilate quickly to the organization’s corporate culture and contribute immediately. Be sure to maintain a positive attitude. Employers will assess how well you handle constructive criticism, setbacks and other job-related challenges as part of your overall performance evaluation.

4. Be yourself. Managers want to see how well you’ll fit in with the existing team. Be proactive in your participation. Use meetings as an opportunity to contribute and join coworkers in off-site events whenever possible. By expanding your connections within the company, you build rapport with others who may be in position to recommend you for a full-time role in the future.

OfficeTeam is the world’s leading staffing service specializing in the placement of highly skilled administrative and office support professionals. The company has more than 325 locations worldwide, and offers online job search services at www.officeteam.com.