In today’s competitive job market, many employers want to take the time to find the ideal employee for each job. One way they do this is by offering temp-to-hire positions, also known as contract-to-hire positions. A temp-to-hire position is one in which an individual is hired for a temporary period (often about 3 – 6 months). At the end of this period, the employee is eligible for a full-time position. However, the employer can choose to dismiss the employee rather than offering her a full-time job.
There are a number of things you can do to make sure your temporary job turns into a permanent one. Here are a few tips on how to ensure your temp-to-hire job ends in a hire.
Perform Like It’s a Permanent Job
Mindset is everything in a temporary job. If you perform like you know you will only be there for a short while, you will only be there for a short while. From day one, you want to treat the job like it’s a permanent one; that means always putting your best foot forward. Be sure to come to work on time (if not a little early), and stay as late as you need to complete your assignments with care. Going above and beyond with each assignment will demonstrate your commitment to and enthusiasm for the job.
Get to Know the Company
Some employers complain that temp-to-hire workers do not take the time to learn anything about the company. Learn as much as you can about the company to demonstrate your investment in the job. Know your company’s history, its earning reports, its key clients, and its culture and mission. Demonstrating concern for the future of the company will let your employer know you are in it for the long haul.
Learn as Much as You Can
Demonstrate to your employer that you are eager to learn, and can learn quickly. Even if there is a task or skill that is only peripherally related to your position, you should take the time to learn it. This will show that you are interested in all aspects of the company. Of course, you should also never be afraid to ask questions. It is more important that you ask a question and learns something correctly than keep silent and get something wrong.
Build Relationships
Get to know your co-workers immediately; chat with them during breaks or lunch to develop relationships. Make sure your coworkers can see your strong work ethic; when you can, offer to help your co-workers with projects. If you befriend your coworkers and convey to them your skills, it is more likely that they will fight for you to remain at the company permanently. Even if you are not hired permanently, you will have widened your professional network, and can potentially use your coworkers for referrals.
Be Patient
It will be hard to wait to find out if you will be offered a permanent position or not. However, you do not want to ask your boss whether or not you will be hired right away. Be patient; convey your interest in the job and company through your work ethic. Towards the end of the temporary period (most likely there will be a formal final interview in which you and your boss discuss your future at the company) convey your interest in the position and remind your boss of the ways in which you have been an asset to the company.
Source: thebalancecareers.com