Can a contract employee become permanent? Absolutely. Businesses hiring temporary staff will often consider these candidates for a permanent position, depending on the needs of the company. While there is no guarantee that you’ll receive a permanent job role as a temporary recruit or freelancer, there are definitely advantages if you decide to seek a position at the company. So, how do you go from a temp to perm recruit? Here, we share our top 13 ways to go from a temp to a permanent contract.
What is a temp to perm role?
A temp to perm role is when a job begins as a temporary job but has the potential of becoming a long-term contract. Sometimes a business will hire a temporary member of staff on a trial contract so they can determine whether that employee is the right person for the job. It also allows the employee to test-drive the job to decide whether the company is the correct fit for their career goals. If you’re currently looking for a temporary role, you might want to check out our temp role guide. See our website: https://www.orielpartners.co.uk/blog/everything-about-working-temp-role
How to go from temp to perm – 13 tips
Many people wonder how to go from a temp employee to a full-time, permanent staff member. Here, we reveal the top 13 ways you can turn your job from temp to perm.
1. Be a team player
Most organisations look for people who can work well in a team. After all, someone who creates conflict and doesn’t get on well with others isn’t going to make the staff atmosphere great. While you will have your own duties, try to connect with other employees as much as possible, offer your assistance if you can and become part of the business. It’s going to be much more difficult to let go of a temporary staff member who has become an integral part of the team.
2. Treat the job as a permanent position
Avoid treating your job as if you’re only going to be there for a short amount of time. Instead, ask questions about the company and attempt to go the extra mile in achieving your work goals, such as going above and beyond by exceeding deadlines. Additionally, search for ways to make your duties extra efficient.
3. Express your interest
Make sure you mention to your boss that you’re interested in a permanent role with the company. Find out what is required to obtain a permanent role. When it’s time for the business to fill permanent vacancies, ensure you’re considered. This will make it more likely for you to land a permanent contract.
4. Know the company
Find out as much as you can about the company. What are their short-term and long-term goals? What is their history? What are their values? Once you know the answers to these questions you can start to consider how you can help meet your employer’s intentions and how your skills can assist the business in the long-term.
5. Be proactive
Coming into a company with a fresh perspective can help you be proactive with your approach. For instance, you may be able to determine how the business can be more productive, cut costs or use more effective systems. Note down your ideas and share them with key decision makers. You could also volunteer for any additional opportunities. By doing this, you’ll show initiative as well as demonstrate your potential for becoming a long-term hire.
6. Always be reliable
Lateness and lots of absences don’t reflect well when you’re a temporary member of staff. Be as reliable as you possibly can. Communicate well with other employees, show up on time for work and meetings, and always deliver the highest quality of work.
7. Show your value
There are many ways to show your value in your job, whether that involves meeting KPIs, establishing relationships with key employees or creating seamless processes. Assisting others in meeting their goals is also important. When it comes time for your employer to deliver your performance review, they’ll be able to see that you’re a valuable asset to the business.
8. Be enthusiastic about your position
Showing enthusiasm about your role gives you a great advantage. If you can showcase your commitment and flexibility in your temporary job, people will be able to see that you’re part of the business. Offer to work late if required, provide holiday cover for other employees or be flexible in your shifts. Any way you can display your enthusiasm helps you become even more valuable to the company.
9. Understand company culture
Discover early on what type of company culture exists. This could be working through lunch, joining in with extra activities outside of work or participating in company charity events. Understanding company culture ensures you can fit into the business from day one.
10. Network, network, network
Networking is one of the most effective ways to transform your temporary role into a permanent position. Even if you leave the company after your temp contract ends, if you network with the right people, you may be brought back for a permanent position at a later date.
11. Be unique
Standing out from the crowd is a great way to show your potential as a long-term employee. You’ve been hired for your skills, so think about how you can use these in a way that sets you apart from others. Remember, you are also your own brand. What else can you bring to the company?
12. Set your own goals
Create your own schedule for turning your position into a permanent role. Maintaining control of your own goals, as well as making notes on how you’re going to get there keeps you proactive in achieving them. Additionally, you can note down other tips on this list with a timetable of when you’re going to achieve specific steps – for example, talking to your boss about the possibility of a permanent contract.
13. Stay motivated
While it can take some time to establish yourself at a workplace when temping, it’s important not to lose motivation. These motivational podcasts might be a good starting point to give you the confidence boost and professional advice you need.
Can you get a raise going from temp to perm?
If you’re wondering “Do you get a raise going from temp to permanent employment?” then you should know that it really depends on the individual company. Some employers may give their employees a raise, while others may require salary negotiations. In other instances, you may have to take a pay cut as your permanent role will come with extra benefits, such as gym membership, free parking, health benefits and more. If you don’t receive a wage increase, you may want to ask if a salary negotiation is possible before you sign a permanent contract. Learn what the average salary of a personal assistant is here.
Article contributed by Oriel Partners
About the Author
Olivia Coughtrie is Co-founder and Director of Oriel Partners, a PA and administrative recruitment consultancy based in central London. Olivia is passionate about making positive changes to the recruitment process.