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quicker you finish it the further up in the interviewee line you will get.

4) Know Your Programs
It depends on your skill type and level, but almost all potential temps at almost every agency are required to take standard tests to determine their level of knowledge over particular software programs, such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Power Point, Microsoft Excel, Adobe Photoshop, etc. Earlier, before you are seated in front of the computer to test your skills, you probably will have to fill out a form and rate your level of expertise in certain software programs. Be sure you are honest and don't overrate yourself too much because these tests will be very telling. Not to mention that while you are likely to overestimate your skill level, they are likely to result with an underestimate. This is because they can be much more difficult than one would anticipate. The trick is that you must know how to perform tasks in the programs, particularly Microsoft Word, which is the standard test for everyone, without using shortcut keys. In the Microsoft Word test, which any temp will probably agree it is quite hard, you have to know how to take the long route to doing various things. And agreeably, it is probably ideal that the shortcuts are performed in real life, to speed up your task, but for some strange reason, temp staffing agencies always use this no shortcuts allowed evaluation.

5) Practice your typing skills
Practice that typing, and once again, be fairly accurate when asked to write down your typing speed. You will more than likely be required to take a typing test. The standard test is usually on some sort of flip board just to the left or right of your computer monitor, propped up for an easy read. Your goal is to type it verbatim as fast and as accurately as possible. Accuracy is almost more important than speed, so keep that in mind and type carefully. At many temp staffing agencies you can opt to take it a few times if you wish, and there is also one practice round, but keep in mind that the recruiter you will meet with later on, will be able to see all scores. So practice before you go.

6) Prepare for an interview
After you take your tests and wait a little while longer, you will meet with a recruiter from the temp staffing agency. This is where you must really shine. As stated earlier, these recruiters see hundreds of people a week so you want to make a great first impression. It is their decision who gets what assignment and how much they are worth, so sell yourself.

And then you should hope for a call from your recruiter with an open assignment. Try to call and check in with them every few days to remind them you are still there, waiting. It may seem like you are overwhelming or stalking them, but trust me, they like this persistence and it actually helps them know who is still available to call, thus saving them time in the long run.

So good luck! And even though this might "only be a temp staffing agency" it could lead to the real deal, and even if not, is great practice for it.

Learn more about this author, Lori Voth.
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