How to Keep a Temp Agency Happy

Temporary employees (“temps”) can be a valuable part of a business. Whether you’re between jobs, not sure of what you want to do as a career or simply not fond of working at one place for a long period, temp-ing can be a lucrative career. However, in order to be a successful temp, you need to keep your temp agency happy.

Instructions

1. Always be on time. The temp agency will receive feedback about your performance, and you want this feedback to be positive.

2. Don’t take vacation days. If you can, schedule any vacation to be taken between job placements. Since you probably won’t be at any placement for very long, do your best to show up every day.

3. Do the best you can at the job you’re placed at. Complete all tasks in an agreeable manner—no loud sighing and don’t look put out if asked to do something out of the ordinary. Maintain a cheerful and pleasant demeanor.

4. Dress appropriately. Your temp agency will probably give you an idea of the dress code at the office placement. Err on the side of caution and dress formally—suits for men (or at least a shirt and tie) and business suits for women, skirts and blouses, or a dress. Women, wear closed-toed shoes, even in the summer.

5. Keep in regular contact with your agency. Ask for feedback on your performance; this way you can head off any problems before they become too large to handle. Call to check in weekly, or bi-weekly if you’re currently placed at a long-term assignment.

6. Send in your timesheet on time. The agency needs your timesheet in order to pay you promptly, and will need it in order to collect payment from the company at which you've been placed.

Tips & Warnings

• If you’re offered a permanent position with your job placement, make sure you check with your temp agency. If you signed a contract, the agency may have a stipulation that you can’t work at an office placement for a certain amount of time unless the agency receives some kind of compensation.