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2 minute read

September 28, 2020

Temporary Work: How and Why it Could be a Good Fit for You

A flexible schedule. A variety of work experiences. Learning new things. If all that sounds appealing, take a closer look at what temporary employment is about.

Demand for good temporary employees continues to grow across a wide range of industries — from office services and manufacturing to technology and healthcare.

Companies need temporary employees to manage periodic increases in their workload, to complete special assignments, or to complement their permanent workforce.

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about temporary work:

What exactly is temporary work?

Temporary work is a short-term work assignment that can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, while some eventually becoming permanent, full-time jobs.

Once an assignment is successfully completed, the worker can move on to something new.

Isn’t temporary work just for unskilled people?

Not at all — companies need temporary employees with diverse skills, educational backgrounds and work experiences.

These include positions such as assemblers, call centre agents, customer service representatives, business analysts, electrical engineers, and sales managers.

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Why do people choose temporary work?

There are many reasons for this.

A recent graduate may want to test-drive jobs in different industries before settling on a career path.

A mother re-entering the workforce might start with a temporary assignment to maintain a flexible schedule.

Someone who is unemployed may use a temporary job as a way to maintain an income flow while looking for permanent work.

In fact, there are individuals who have found permanent positions through these temporary jobs.

Some people prefer temporary work because it fits their lifestyle better.

What are the qualities of a great temporary employee?

Successful temporary workers welcome changing work environments and assignments.

They adapt quickly and have a willingness to learn.

They show initiative on the job and have a great sense of pride in what they can accomplish.

This article is contributed by Manpower Singapore.

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