Did you just land a temporary job? Now is the time to go into overdrive! By highlighting your skills and know-how, you will put all the odds in your favour to transform a temporary assignment into a permanent job.
In 2016, 14% of salaried workers held a temporary job, according to the Institut de la statistique du Québec. For the employer, it is often a good opportunity to assess the candidate’s dedication and skills in view of offering him a full-time position.
“When you enter a company temporarily, there is an expiry date, and you may have the reflex to consider the position as a ‘bread and butter’ job,” explains Isabelle Lord, president of Lord Managerial Communication and member of the Order of Certified Human Resources Advisors. “You have to change your approach, and behave as if the position was permanent.”
In adopting this vision of the position, the employee is more engaged in the work, for example working overtime or being more proactive in his or her duties. It is not necessary to express your intentions to the employer. Demonstrating your know-how and professionalism is sufficient.
Be part of the team
The manner of interacting with your co-workers is also very important. By being interested in them and their professional career, you make your place in the team and demonstrate your skills. “It proves our relational abilities,” emphasizes Mrs. Lord. “Being competent is basic, but knowing how to interact is going further.”
By acting as part of the team, a temporary employee demonstrates a desire to contribute and his leadership. You can also stand out by spending time with your colleagues and manager outside work time, such as coffee breaks, lunch or an after-work happy hour.
Asking for feedback
Temporary jobs often don’t provide feedback, such as at the end of a probationary period. You can, however, politely ask for feedback from your employer after a few weeks, which is a sign of motivation, self-confidence and willingness to do the job well.
When you reach the end of your contract, have you not had an offer to stay on? Be patient, the consequences are not always evident immediately. You have put all the odds in your favour to make a good impression, and you could be considered for a future opening in the company. If the opportunity does not arise, you will at least be assured of obtaining good references to find a position elsewhere. In short, you have everything to gain!
Here are 5 tips to turn your temporary job into a permanent position.