Temporary work is the best indicator of job potential

August 15 2002 - Working on a temporary basis is a good opportunity to convince a hiring manager that you are an ideal match for a position, suggests a recent OfficeTeam survey. 46 per cent of administrative professionals polled by an independent research firm said that performance on a temporary or trial assignment gives the best insight into whether someone is qualified for a job. This compares with 30 per cent for the interview and 12 per cent for the reference check.

The survey included responses from 567 men and women - all 18 years of age or older - employed full time in professional environments.

They were asked, "Which one of the following provides the most insight into whether or not someone is qualified for a job?" The responses were:

"Temporary assignments enable prospective employees to show specifically how their skills add value to the firm," said Liz Hughes, executive director of OfficeTeam. "In addition, candidates can determine whether the position is a good fit prior to making a full-time commitment."

Liz Hughes has some suggestions for candidates using temporary work to open doors to full-time jobs:

* Shift your focus. While on a temporary assignment, think of yourself as a full-time employee. Take ownership of projects and adopt a service mindset.

* Make them an offer. During the job interview, suggest to the hiring manager that you'd be willing to work on a temporary basis as a means of demonstrating your qualifications. When working with temporary services, let them know you're looking for assignments that could lead to full-time jobs.

* It's in the attitude. Employers aren't just evaluating your technical ability. They also want to see how well you work with others, react to constructive criticism and handle setbacks. Be positive and upbeat with everyone you meet.

* Don't burn bridges If your assignment doesn't lead to full-time work, thank the manager and keep in touch - this person could serve as a reference for you or provide job leads in the future.

OfficeTeam has more than 300 locations worldwide and offers online job search services at http://www.officeteam.com.

Bibliography and Amazon.ca

What Color is Your Parachute?: A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career Changers
by Richard Nelson Bolles

The Interview Rehearsal Book: 7 Steps to Job-Winning Interviews Using Acting Skills You Never Knew You Had
by Deb Gottesman, Buzz Mauro

Power Interviews: Job-Winning Tactics from Fortune 500 Recruiters
by Neil Yeager, Lee Hough

175 High-Impact Cover Letters
by Richard H. Beatty