How to Stand Out as a Temp in Light Industrial

Within the light industrial field, it has become increasingly popular for employers to hire temps. A temporary worker fills a “gap” during a temporary, pre-established timeframe. Most temp jobs last anywhere from a few days to a few months. 

Businesses often hire temp workers in situations like these:

•  A current employee goes on maternity or disability leave.

•  A current employee goes on an extended vacation.

•  There is unexpected turnover.

•  The usual seasonal influx occurs.

While companies usually do not hire temp workers after they complete their tenures, certain temp workers may receive permanent positions. For instance, a temp-to-hire worker first proves his abilities as a temp before stepping into a full-time role. But whether temp work leads to more permanent employment at the outset is irrelevant. In and of itself, a temporary position allows light industrial workers to showcase their talents and gain exposure.

If you are a temp worker and wish to stay long-term with a company, bring your A-game to the table every day. After all, you have a short time to make a lasting impression!

Here are eight tips for standing out as a temp in light industrial:

Treat Your Temp Gig Like a Permanent Job

Don’t succumb to the temptation to treat this job like a transition. Instead, give this job your very best each day. Treat the opportunity like it’s already a permanent position. This attitude proves you have more than a “passing interest” in the company. 

Demonstrate Your Technical Skills

While working in light industrial, you might fill various roles. For example, you may drive a forklift or operate an assembly line. Warehouse and fulfillment center workers remain in high demand, so ensure your technical skills are sharp and on point. And keep your head in the game. A good attitude doesn’t mean much if you can’t substantiate it with competency.

Keep Your Soft Skills Strong

On the flip side, technical skills remain invaluable. Of course, you can always learn the additional skills you need for a given task. But it goes without saying that employers watch for soft skills. Soft skills usually comprise your workplace character. In light industrial, some of the most important soft skills include the following:

•  Good communication skills.

•  Dependability.

•  Problem-solving.

•  Critical thinking.

•  Adaptability.

•  Multi-tasking.

•  Time management.

Invest in Learning

Show your employer that you are willing and eager to learn. For example, ask questions about things outside your “job description.”

Also, be teachable! Don’t waltz in with over-the-top confidence since this attitude comes across as arrogance. And arrogance proves off-putting to prospective employers.

Build Relationships

The position might be temporary, but you should still make friends with your co-workers. Only good things can come from building relationships. Why?

•  It makes your temp job more enjoyable.

•  Employers might seek feedback about you from current employees.

•  You can develop your network in the industry — even if you don’t stay long-term.

Be a Team Player

Concentrate on being a genuine team player. Light industrial work involves many moving parts and therefore requires true collaboration. Make an effort to work well with everyone around you. Remember, their feedback might determine your future!

Go the Extra Mile

Stand out from other temp workers by going the extra mile. Offer to stay late. Be willing to assist with tasks outside your regular duties. Check-in with your boss before you leave each day to ensure all tasks are complete.

Express Interest

Don’t miss out by failing to communicate. Your supervisor can’t read your mind. Instead, give yourself a chance to get established, but then let management know that you’d like to stay on. Then be prepared with an up-to-date resume — just in case!

At Career Concepts, we have over 50 years of experience matching the right talent to the right employer. So if you’re looking to stand out in light industrial, we can help you! Contact us today, and let’s get started!