How to Land a Temporary Job: Advice From a California Staffing Agency

There are many reasons why someone might be looking for a temporary job: They may want to learn a new skill or trade, try out a career before they commit, build a resume, get a foot in the door, or use it as a networking opportunity. Temp jobs in California are more popular than ever, and can be a great option for those looking for flexibility, a fast paycheck, or to introduce themselves to people in a new company.  

As one of California's leading staffing agencies, we've spent years connecting workers with temporary roles and seen firsthand what makes candidates stand out and what holds them back. If you're on the hunt for a temporary job, here’s what you need to know:

1. Be Clear About What You Want From Your Temporary Job

Just because you don't envision yourself working in a temporary position for the long term,  it is still important that you're very clear about what you want, what you're open to, and what you need. One of the biggest issues we see in candidates looking for temporary jobs is that while they're trying to be flexible, they're also being too vague. They're not specific about what type of job they want, which makes it very hard to find a good opportunity for them. Temp jobs move extremely fast, so the more specific you are about what you can do, the easier it is for a staffing agency to put you in the right position.

Before you even start looking or applying for temp jobs, it's important to think about the type of work you want. 

• Do you picture yourself in a warehouse? 

• Are you looking for more of an administrative position? 

• Are you looking for something in accounting or hospitality? 

  
  

This will help narrow down your search. One of the first things we ask people looking for temporary work is their availability. Have a clear idea of when you can work, including days, nights, weekends, and whether you're looking for short-term or long-term.

Another thing to consider is how long you're willing to commute. If transportation is an issue, staffing agencies will narrow their searches to jobs that are closer to you, so it's more realistic for you to get to work on time. It's also important for staffing agencies to know what limitations you may have, and these could be physical limitations or scheduling limitations. The more information you can provide up front, the easier it is for the staffing agency to match you with the right temporary job.

And while being clear is important, so is being flexible.  We’ve noticed that candidates who are open to working different days or different shifts, have more flexibility when it comes to the location of their job, and are open to short-term assignments often get placed faster and more frequently.

2. Treat the Temporary Job Interview Like a Permanent Job Interview

One of the most frustrating and disheartening things we see as a staffing agency is a lack of professionalism by those looking for temporary work. Even though this job may not be your forever job, employers are still looking for someone who is professional, serious, and honest. This job may just be a stepping stone, but it can open doors for your future that you hadn't even thought about yet. Make sure your application is complete and list relevant experience, even if it comes from different industries.

When you show up at the staffing agency, treat it like a real interview. Dress appropriately and communicate clearly. You only get one chance to make a first impression, and staffing agencies usually use their first impressions of you to determine which job assignments to recommend you for.

3. Highlight Reliability and Work Ethic

Reliability is the name of the game when looking for temporary work. Many employers are looking for temporary work to help ease the burden of their full-time workers or help during a busy season.  Here's something we tell candidates all the time: reliability is the name of the game when it comes to snagging a temporary job. You may not have all the skills necessary for the job, but if an employer knows that you show up on time and do your job well, these skills can be taught.

4. Stay Ready and Responsive For Any Temporary Job Assignments

Temp jobs move quickly, which means you need to be ready and responsive to reply quickly to messages from your staffing agency. Make sure you are consistently checking your text messages, emails, and phone logs so that you don't miss an opportunity. Your recruiter needs to know that they can get a hold of you when an opportunity pops up.

5. Partner With a Staffing Agency That Knows California Jobs

If you're serious about getting connected with a temporary position, you have three options:

1. Spend hours every day browsing job websites, sending in resumes, and hoping to hear back from someone.

2. Go with a less-than-reputable staffing agency that may or may not understand California's unique labor laws, safety requirements, and workplace regulations. Keep your fingers crossed that they place you in a safe, compliant, and fairly managed work environment.

3. Let GreatHire review your experience, skills, and expertise to expertly match you with employers looking for temporary workers in your area. Benefit from our comprehensive and proven strategies that get you back in the workforce and help you build a resume that opens doors.

We know that the job search process can be intimidating and complicated, but with our expertise, you gain access to opportunities and industry insight you might not find alone. Our team offers continuous support, insider knowledge of local employers, and personalized matching to ensure you are placed in positions suited to your skills and preferences. 

With a little preparation, a strong work ethic, and GreatHire as your partner, temp work can help you build your resume and get closer to your career goals. Let’s get connected and get you back in the game!