Advice for #earlycareer folks: don't overlook temporary work. When I was in my 20's, I did so much temp work that my friends called me "the temp." After dropping out of college and moving back in with my parents, I signed up with an administrative staffing agency (OfficeTeam / Robert Half). I got work right away. It wasn't always great work, or work I enjoyed. It wasn't really what I wanted to be earning. But it was work. A few of my gigs included: - Receptionist at an Interior Design firm (maternity leave coverage) - Merchandizing support at the Hotel Del Coronado (summer rush) - Admin Assistant for a Construction Contractor (lots of filing) - Executive Assistant for an Investment Firm (temp to hire, but wasn't the right fit) - Admin Assistant for the Airport Authority. I ended up landing my first full-time job at that last one. Temp work was great for me, because I got to try out a bunch of different employers, use (and expand) key skill sets, and learn about different industries. When you work a temp position, especially a temp-to-hire, you get to try out an employer before you commit. You get a feel for company culture. And we all know that culture is important. Plus, the temp companies do a better job now of offering benefits, paid time off, and other perks that mirror those you'd receive as a full-time employee. AND -- for some companies, getting a temp job with them is the BEST way to be competitive as a candidate for when open positions pop up. They already know you, you've already added value. If you need a job ASAP, and haven't considered the #temp workforce -- do. Also a great strategy if you have no experience, and you need it to get a job. Temp work was my path to my first #qualityjob!
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12moRachel - great suggestion for young professionals. And I'd add college students. I spent my junior year abroad and was unable to secure an internship before returning to the US. Instead, once home, I registered with a few temp agencies that I was told were used by firms in the industries I was interested in. Within a few weeks, I got a temp admin position supporting an Equity Research Analyst at a large Wall Street firm. His assistant had abruptly quit. Once he and his team realized I was able, willing, and interested in learning as well as doing the basic admin work...he took me under his wing for the summer and allowed me to have a great experience.