Ask James How do I turn a temp job into a permanent role

Ask James How do I turn a temp job into a permanent role by James Reed Not sure where to go next in your career? You’ve come to the right place…In his monthly column, career coach and Chairman of reed.co.uk, James Reed, shares his expert advice to help you tackle your biggest career concerns.In this months column James talks temping..The questionDear James,  I recently moved to a new city and have taken on some temp work while I find my feet. Ive been here for three months now and Im really enjoying the job Im doing, love the people Im working with and dont want to move on.  My contract is up in just three more months do you have any advice on how I can turn my temp job into a permanent role by then?  Many thanks,Jessica  The answerHi Jessica,Temporary work is a great way to try out a role in a new company, or city, without the commitment of a permanent contract.Some temp roles are just that, and inevitably have an expiration date, but don’t despair. It’s not uncommon for temporary workers who perform well to be rewarded w ith a permanent position.Prove you’re worth it…The trick is to prove your worth. Make yourself indispensable to your employer and they’ll naturally want to retain you. If you have the opportunity to gain expertise in an area vital to the business, seize it. Go above and beyond to exceed expectations on a daily basis and show that you’re worth the investment.I often say a job is a problem to be solved, so show them that you are the solution to their problem.Build lasting relationships…Employers also want to know that you’ll fit in well with the company culture not just on a personal level with your colleagues, but with the company’s core values. Follow correct company etiquette when it comes to break times, socialising and meetings, and always offer to help your co-workers.Ensuring that you’re known as someone who is well-liked will go a long way with your employer when it comes to considering you for a full time position.  Take notesYou’re in a unique position yo u already have your foot in the door so use it to your advantage. Find out what skills are required to become a full time employee and make sure that you have them, or that you’re working on building them.Make your intentions knownIt’s important that you and your employer are on the same page. It may be that your employer assumes that, because you accepted a temporary role, you want to move on to other things when your initial contract is up. So take the initiative.Talk to your manager about your time with them and express your enthusiasm for the company and your job. If you have a good relationship with your manager and you feel confident doing so, you can even broach the subject with them. Ask what you would need to do to “go permanent”.Use a recruitment agencyYou don’t mention how you secured the job, but it could make a difference. If you were placed in the role by a recruitment consultant, use them in your current negotiations.They have built a relationship with the company to get you hired initially, so explain the current situation to them and they may be able to help you secure a permanent position with your company.As the end of your temp contract nears, hopefully your employer will appreciate your hard work and reward you with a permanent position in their organisation.And if your position doesn’t turn into a permanent one, it’s not all bad news; you’ve gained a wealth of experience to take with you to your next role.Five reasons to start tempingFive of the best temp jobsCV template for temp workIf you’d like James to answer your career query, tweet your question to @James_A_ReedLooking for more interview advice?   Download Why You? nowFind a job What Where Search JobsSign up for more Career AdviceSign up for moreCareer Advice Please enter a valid email addressmessage hereBy clicking Submit you agree to the terms and conditions applicable to our service and acknowledge that your personal data will be used in accordance with o ur privacy policy and you will receive emails and communications about jobs and career related topics. Ask James Temporary jobs