Find a Job You Really Want In
In today’s fast-paced job market, you may find yourself in need of immediate income to cover bills and expenses. In such situations, the traditional job search process can feel overwhelming and time-consuming.
Crafting multiple applications and waiting for responses can be frustrating. This is where temp agencies come into play, alleviating the burden of the job search by leveraging their networks and expertise to help you secure income quickly.
Key Takeaways:
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Temp workers can be employed for durations ranging from a single day to up to a year.
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Temp agencies connect businesses in need of temporary employees with proactive job seekers.
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Utilizing a temp agency can save you time in the hiring process while providing immediate financial support.
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Your choice to work with a temp agency hinges on your flexibility and career goals.
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Temp agencies can serve as a quick source of income or a stepping stone in your career.
What Is a Temporary Worker?
According to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), a temporary worker is defined as someone hired for less than one year or until a specified end date.
As a temporary worker, your role often involves supporting permanent staff by taking on smaller tasks, allowing them to focus on core responsibilities.
It’s important to note that temp workers generally receive fewer hours and benefits compared to permanent employees, such as health insurance and retirement plans. However, workers who consistently log a certain number of hours each week may qualify for some benefits.
For companies, hiring temporary workers is an effective way to enhance productivity on short notice. For job seekers, temp work can provide a flexible income stream quickly.
What Is a Temp Agency?
Temp agencies, also known as staffing agencies or temp services, are organizations that match job seekers with temporary job openings from client companies.
Some agencies specialize in certain industries, while others have a broader focus on various sectors.
Positions offered through temp agencies can range from regular temporary roles to seasonal jobs or temp-to-hire opportunities.
In a typical job search, candidates interview directly with the hiring company, which manages all employment processes through its human resources department.
In contrast, when you find work through a temp agency, you are contracted by the agency, which handles all employment details rather than the client company. This includes:
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Hiring
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Interviewing
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Onboarding
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Firing
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Work Scheduling
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Compensation and Benefits
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Addressing Worker Concerns
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Tax Status Management
Client companies pay the temp agency for the worker’s hourly wages, which the agency then divides with the employee. For instance, if a client pays $35 per hour, the agency might take $10, leaving the worker with $25.
What Kinds of Jobs Are Available at Temp Agencies?
Numerous temp agencies specialize in filling positions across a wide array of fields and industries.
These jobs generally fall into two categories:
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Quick Income Source: Many individuals utilize temp agencies for immediate income rather than long-term career advancement. Local agencies often connect you with nearby companies looking to hire quickly, which is ideal for finding work in sectors like retail and services.
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Career-Focused: Established temp agencies can help you secure higher-paying roles that contribute to your career progression. For example, TEKsystems specializes in connecting tech professionals with Fortune 500 companies, while firms like Kelly Staffing and Randstad offer opportunities across various industries, often at competitive pay rates.
Pros and Cons of Using a Temp Agency
Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of using a temp agency is crucial before you begin your search for temporary work.
Some notable benefits of temp agencies include:
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Speed and Convenience: Temp agencies streamline the job search process, handling much of the workload. While you may still be required to interview, you won’t need to apply to multiple companies and wait for responses.
If a temp agency shows interest in interviewing you, they likely have a position that aligns with your skills.
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Flexible Scheduling: Companies typically have limited availability for job seekers, but a temp agency works with numerous firms, increasing the chances of finding a role that fits your schedule.
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Temp-to-Hire Opportunities: Many companies view temp positions as a way to evaluate potential full-time employees. High performers may be offered permanent roles, helping you gain entry into competitive companies.
However, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
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Lower Wages: Temp agencies take a percentage of your hourly wage, which can be around 30%, potentially resulting in lower pay than if you were hired directly.
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Job Security: As a contractor, you can be terminated more easily than a permanent employee, which may create a sense of job instability.
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Potential Career Impact: Not all temp positions lead to permanent jobs, and frequent transitions between roles can create a perception of instability on your resume.
How to Find the Right Temp Agency
With countless temp agencies available, finding the right fit can be challenging. Consider the following factors to make an informed choice:
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Urgency: The speed at which you need a job can vary among agencies. If immediate income is essential, consider agencies like Adecco, which specialize in rapid placements, even within the same day.
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Compensation Preferences: Some staffing agencies may take longer to find you work but offer lower commission rates. Weigh the tradeoff based on your immediate financial needs.
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Specialization: Certain agencies focus on specific industries, such as TEKsystems for technology roles or Aquent for creative fields. If you seek a high-paying career in a niche market, consider agencies that align with your qualifications.
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Temp-to-Hire Policies: If your goal is to secure a permanent position, investigate the temp-to-hire policies of the agency. Some may have restrictions on when a client can hire temp workers permanently.
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Preferences in Companies and Locations: Temp agencies often take your preferences into account. Research their client base and geographical focus to align with your career goals.
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Agency Reputation: Before committing, conduct an online search to review the agency’s reputation. Ensure they have a track record of successfully placing candidates and being transparent about job opportunities and benefits.
What to Consider Before Using a Temp Agency
Temp agencies can be an effective solution for job seekers but are not a one-size-fits-all answer.
While they offer quick access to income and reduce the stress of job searching, it’s vital to weigh the potential drawbacks. Temp agencies can provide valuable opportunities for career advancement or may inadvertently lead you into a cycle of temporary work.
Carefully consider the guidelines for selecting a temp agency while reflecting on your unique career aspirations and circumstances.
Temp Agency FAQ
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How long does a temporary job last?
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Is a temp agency worth it?
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How do you get hired as a temp?
A typical temp job lasts between two days to two weeks. Jobs extending beyond six weeks are often categorized as long-term temp positions, lasting anywhere from three to twelve months. The DOL officially considers anyone hired for a specific duration under one year as a temporary employee.
Yes, a temp agency can be advantageous if you are prepared to manage its limitations. It can provide essential income while simplifying the hiring process, often allowing you to gain valuable experience that enhances your future job prospects. However, some positions may be short-lived, and pay might be lower than direct employment.
Getting hired as a temp requires a mix of skill and luck. While luck comes from the availability of companies seeking temporary staff, your skills—such as a strong work ethic, dependability, and communication abilities—play a vital role in proving your value during your temporary assignment.
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
