For those who find themselves suddenly unemployed, or for those who do not want a full-time job but like to earn a bit of extra cash now and them, temporary employment is the answer.

As with any situation, there are two sides to the coin. While temporary employment offers many advantages, there are quite a few disadvantages.

Temporary work

Many temps start a temporary job with the hope that this assignment might lead to a full-time job. They think that if they perform well enough and fit it with the rest of the company they might be asked to stay. When this does not happen and it is time to say goodbye, temps often feel a sense of disappointment.

Having to say goodbye

Saying goodbye is never easy and in the event that the temp lands a long-term assignment, saying goodbye to a company and its people can be very difficult. Agencies often warn not to get attached to the job and its people, but this is easier said than done. Invariably friendships are formed, jobs are liked if not loved, and letting go can be hard.

Credibility

Too much temporary work does not look good on a resume. Listing a number of temporary jobs gives a potential full-time employer the impression that the candidate has been job hopping or cannot commit to one job. The employer may think that the candidate is not used to stability and cannot handle routine.

Payment

Depending on the agency and the job, the pay is generally low. Some agencies pay more than others. Some jobs pay better than others. Those who want to pursue temporary employment might have to 'shop around' a bit to find an agency that offers reasonable rates.

No benefits

Temporary employment offers little or no benefits. That means no medical insurance, and no sick leave. Should a temp get sick while on assignment, there will be no financial coverage. In case of a long-term assignment, an employer might be willing to wait for the temp to recover and come back, but most of the time temps are replaced within twenty four hours.

No security

Temporary employment offers no security. Employers do not have to give any notice. An assignment may be cancelled at any time. Should a temp find herself unable to go to work one day, chances are that the assignment is cancelled and she gets replaced with another temp.

Dry spells

There can be weeks or even months between assignments. While it is recommended that a temp advises an agency of her finishing date, the chances that another assignment is waiting upon completion of the current assignment are slim to none.

Exploitation

Some temporary jobs consist of standing in for a full-time employee, but some temp jobs are directed to the less desirable tasks. Temps are expected to do work nobody else wants to do.

Treatment

Temps are often treated with less than respect by the full-time staff. Assumptions are made a temp cannot get, or does not want, a full-time job.

The best way to get a good idea of what temporary work involves, is to talk to a few temps. Nothing is better than getting it straight from the horse's mouth.

Learn more about this author, Conny Manero.
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