How could you benefit from temporary work?

Many people have reservations about temporary work. Common reasons for this are a mistrust in agencies or fear of lack of job security. Although it is not for every jobseeker, there are so many benefits to temporary work that you may not have thought about before! Before you decide if temporary work could benefit you or not, you should give this a read!

Gain experience
Temporary work can help you to gain valuable experience, whether it be your first office-based position, or you are looking to take that first step into a career change. You are completely in control of what temporary vacancies you accept. Our job is to just provide you with some great options relevant to you!

Flexibility
One of the best benefits of temporary work is the flexibility it can offer. If you have other commitments - for example if you are going travelling or returning to university, it is a perfect time to consider temporary work. Durations of temporary work can vary from a few days to a year long contract, or even longer! The possibilities which go alongside temping are endless, and it really is individual to you. 

Looking for a career change?
We would never advise you to leave a permanent role for a temporary option, however this can be a great back-up if you find yourself in a position whereby you are available immediately. Temporary work is often a great way to start a fresh within a new industry or job role. It can also provide you with the perfect opportunity to “try before you buy” when it comes to changing your career path, with no obligation to commit permanently.

Avoid CV gaps 
If you ever find yourself between jobs, temporary work is a great way to avoid being out of work completely. It also allows you to continue earning whilst keeping your skills up to date. Temporary roles can also work well for you if you have just graduated and have not yet decided upon a career path. It gives you great experience and more importantly provides you with the time you need to decide which job role is for them long term. Temporary roles can also often lead to permanent opportunities.    

Holiday pay
You still get holiday pay! This is calculated by how many hours you work and can come in handy for appointments and interviews, meaning you will still be paid for time off. As a temporary employee you will be entitled to 20 days holiday per year, plus bank holidays. It can also rise with service just like a permanent employee.

Types of roles available
Taking a temporary role can help you get your foot into the door of a company which may seem out of reach. Many large companies rely on agencies to fill shorter term roles for them, for example, seasonal or annual leave cover. A temporary opportunity can lead to a permanent role in the future, so temping can be a great way to get experience and make a good impression to companies who you may not have thought you could work for.

Legislation
Temporary workers in the United Kingdom are protected by laws such as The Agency Worker Regulations. These laws are in place so that you are not at a disadvantage by working on a temporary basis and ensure you are treated the same as if you were a permanent employee. Take a look at our PDF explaining your rights for more information on the legislation protecting you as a temporary worker. 

Weekly Pay
In most temporary roles you will be given weekly pay. If you do find yourself temping because you are between roles, this can be a great way to keep money coming in before you move to a permanent role with monthly pay.