Making Better Impressions as a Temp Worker

With the economy still struggling to improve, many people are taking temporary worker positions as a way to earn income. A short-term, part-time worker job can turn into permanent employment if you make the right impression. Below are a few things you can do to set the right tone with an employer and increase your chances of landing a permanent full-time job.

Unless the position requires you to do so, do not use your cellphone while working. If you do nothing else, this tip alone will put you far ahead of your competition—employees who give in to the temptation to fiddle with their cellphones. Employers pay you to focus on your job, not to play Fruit Ninja. Ditching the cellphone shows that you're committed to your temporary worker duties and encourages you to connect with other employees.

An article on SFGate noted that the way you dress and other nonverbal cues like eye contact and body language have a significant impact on an employer's hiring decision. It's natural to be nervous, especially as a temporary worker who may not know much about the position. Despite the butterflies in your stomach, it's important to project an air of confidence. Dress appropriately, have a firm handshake, and maintain steady eye contact with the people you are speaking to. This will assuage some of the nervousness an employer may feel at having a temporary part-time worker in an important administrative position at the company.

Show an interest in your job by asking questions. In addition to clarifying how to complete your duties, you should ask your supervisor and coworkers about other aspects of the company. This can signify to your employer that your interest in the job extends beyond the paycheck. Asking questions can also uncover other opportunities available at the company. For example, asking how the company markets its products may unearth an open sales position. The company may be more amendable to hiring you because of your previous experience there, even if it is as a temporary worker.

Avoid talking about controversial or awkward subjects. It's natural to want to connect with your fellow employees over shared interests. However, it's best to stay away from controversial topics such as politics or personal matters like the state of your marriage, at least until you get to know your coworkers better. As a temporary worker, you want to be memorable—but not for being the person who shared too much information or caused unnecessary drama in the workplace. If someone broaches these subjects in your presence, gracefully change the conversation to something more neutral or exit it entirely.

Maintaining a professional demeanor and working hard can go a long way toward opening doors to other opportunities. Do your best to make a good impression with your employer. Doing so can lead you to the break you need to go from temporary worker to full-time employee.

(Photo courtesy of renjith krishnan / Freedigitalphotos.net)