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Tips on Turning My Temp Job into a Permanent One?

Q:   Dear Seymour, I am currently working as a temporary employee at my company. My coworker (who was also working temporary) was just offered her position permanently. How can I turn my temp job into a permanent one?

- Submitted by Robin Kastaneda, Tyler, Texas

A: Dear Robin,

Turning a temporary assignment into a permanent post is often the goal of workers who choose to sign on with temporary staffing companies. In fact, in a recent study by American Staffing Association (ASA), 75% of staffing employees see temporary and contract work as a path to a permanent job. Here's some advice on how to achieve a permanent position right alongside your coworker.

Confirm the opening. Ask your staffing employer or the HR contact at the organization where you are assigned if the position offers the possibility of permanent work. If it doesn't, you can still keep your eyes and ears open for other full-time job openings within your department or elsewhere within the organization.

Make your intentions known. It's important to share your intentions of securing full-time work with the company. Do your best to communicate your goal to coworkers and supervisors.

Exceed expectations in your temporary tasks. Remember, not only is a temp-to-perm assignment an opportunity for you to "try out" the position, your employer is likely sizing you up for the role as well. The single best way to make sure you are considered a candidate for permanent employment is to exceed your boss' expectations in your current assignment. In today's competitive labor market, becoming a star employee may even result in the organization creating a position for you if one is not currently available.

Take advantage of your inside contacts. If you've done a good job at building your credibility and proving your worth to colleagues and superiors, they can help serve as references and stepping stones to a permanent position within the organization.

Don't get complacent. Even though you're considered an "insider," it is still important to approach the interview and hiring process seriously. Make sure you convey why you're a good fit for the position, and the benefits of hiring you, such as your existing knowledge of the company.

Entering your temporary assignment with these tips in mind will go a long way towards achieving the permanent position you desire. Good luck!

Seymour