Being a temp is often seen as a less reliable source of income, more short term, for students or part-timers only. That is far from the truth. Being a temp can be a fantastic opportunity to trial different companies and industries, cover gaps in your CV, grow your experience, and/or have the flexibility to match your lifestyle.
Temporary assignments, or ‘temp work’ is defined as short-term contract work with a company through an agency for a certain amount of time or until a project is completed. Candidates looking for work register with a recruitment or temping agency of their choice, and as the agency gets assignments, a consultant will get in touch with the candidate if the assignment meets their skillset.
Assignments can range in length, most are short term, between 1 week and 3 months, but they can also last longer, be extended, or even be turned into a permanent position. It is all about what the company needs at that point in time and being able to jump in and hit the ground running. They may need an administrator to cover maternity leave for 6 months, or a payroll assistant to help the finance team while they look for a new permanent employee.
Rather than being employed by the company you are working for, you are employed by the recruitment agency. This means that you have a dedicated recruitment consultant who has your best interests at heart, rather than the interests of the company you are working for. They will check in with you, make sure that you are enjoying your role and receiving the right support to succeed.
Temping is a great chance to ‘trial’ different roles, industries, and companies. One month you could be an administrator, the next you could be a marketing coordinator. You could have the opportunity to work within a government organisation, or in a law firm, or for a small family-owned business. Depending on your skills and experience, it’s an excellent way to gain experience and dip your toe into different roles and industries, especially if you are not sure what kind of role you are looking for in the long term.
Networking is often one of the hardest ways to build your career, but as a temp, you can go into different organisations, meet industry professionals, and build your network, all while being paid and gaining experience. The best part is that when your temp assignment ends, you still have those connections, making it that much easier to find your next opportunity!
Whether you are waiting around for that perfect full-time permanent role, saving up to move overseas, looking to earn while studying, or looking for flexible, part-time work, temping can help! With short-term temping opportunities always being available, you can pick and choose how often and how much you are working, making it work for you and your schedule.
The beauty of temping and being employed by an agency is that you don’t have to set up your own business, be GST registered, or file your own taxes like you may have to if you were a contractor. All of the benefits of flexibility and picking your own assignments, but none of the paperwork!
Are we tempting you to try temping? If you’re interested in knowing more about our temp opportunities and how you could make temping work for you, get in touch with us!
"The team are uplifting and wonderful consultants to work with. Great communicators and it really feels like they go to bat for me with every employment opportunity sent my way. I so appreciate all of their hard work!"
Candidate
"The CM team have always been very approachable right from the start. They have always been great with communication and very understanding with any issues I have brought to their attention. I would 100% recommend the Chandler MacLeod team. It has been an absolute pleasure working with you so far!"
Candidate
"Krina has managed my temp assignments for the last few years, and despite being woo'ed by at least 4 other agencies I continue my relationship with Chandler Macleod because of her great service, advice, and knowledge. She says she'll do something and she hasn't disappointed; I have so much confidence in her. "
Candidate
Advice
Temp Hub
Our Specialties
About us
More from us