We need to remove the negative stigma that surrounds temporary and contract-only positions. These positions are very resourceful to you especially when searching for a new job. It’s a smart way to test out jobs before committing to them long-term, and can be a great way to make quick cash if you are in a pinch. But if you are like most and are looking for a job you can settle into, here are some tips you can follow to keep that temp job for good. Bond with the other employees
As soon as you can, begin reaching out to and creating friendships with the employees you click with. Don’t force yourself to be in every conversation that ever happens, but you can begin to establish your place in the work environment. When you are invited to lunch with the company, do your best to be there. If there is a game or an ongoing joke the employees have, find it and play along. This is a great way to make connections not only for this position, but for ones you will have in the future. Make a place for yourself in the work environment so that when the end of the season or contract comes, your employer will have a hard time letting you go seeing as you have already bonded with the employees and you fit in workplace so well.
Don’t be a Brown-Noser
Employers can tell if someone is just trying to earn brownie points. Your coworkers will pick up on it too, and could find it annoying. However, you can mask your flattery like it is advice seeking. For example, when trying to connect with your boss you can say something like, “How do you do X project so efficiently?” That is way better than the obvious, “You are so amazing at everything you to.” See the difference? You can make your employer feel good about themselves, and you can get on their good side by genuinely being interested in how to improve your work.
Perform like it is Permanent
Think of your contract or temp job as a really long job interview. In fact, that is what a lot of employers do instead of immediately hiring someone full-time. They are going with the “try before you buy” method. Always be on top of your game. That means be on time (if not a few minutes early) every day. Be sure to look the part and follow the dress code. Learn as much as you can from your coworkers and be willing to take on projects or responsibilities you might not have before if you were given a permanent position immediately. Show the employer that you are willing to go above and beyond for the job, they will recognize and respect that.
Show your interest
Your employer cannot read your mind. Most temp workers want to be only that-- a temporary employee. Your employer will assume you are only interested in short-term or contract work unless you let them know otherwise. You don’t need to bug them about it everyday, but you can mention it when you are hired, and again when your contract is wrapping up. If you have done your job correctly and the company is willing to offer you a position, it will be extended to you.
Find the balance that allows you to make a name for yourself and gain experience, so when your contract is up your employer won't be able to let you go. Following these steps can help you get there if the job is right for you.
For me, I hardly ever see the boss and never thought of mentioning it when hired that I would consider staying on until after the holidays. He stated seasonal but maybe in the back of his mind he was trying us all out and turns out he did. He asked my friend in my department to stay on in July and I was asked in August to stay on which took me by surprise. ( I work at a garden center for my PT evening job). I did bond with a few people but where I live retail is not the best place to form friendships with other employees. Finally, perform like a permanent, I do follow the dress code up to a point but not going to go out and buy different shoelaces for the substandard wages paid to me and my fellow employees. Yes, shoelaces need to be a certain color. Learning from coworkers has been tough since most people are seasonal and gone but I ask my supervisor if she is available.
ReplyDeleteBonding with the employees sure will make a good impact if seeking a permanent position.
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