How Do Temp Agencies Work?

Going into a business and role you are unfamiliar with can prevent candidates from pursuing this type of employment. However, with the right guidance and support, temping can be a brilliant way to earn money and gain valuable employment experience quickly.

In this article, we look at what is a temp agency and the benefits temping can bring you. We hope this will give you the confidence to move forward and try temping – who knows where it may lead!

What is a temp agency?

A temp agency is a recruitment company specializing in placing candidates in short-term or contract positions.

Usually, the temporary worker will be employed via the agency and be on their payroll. The temporary candidate will be paid hourly and submit a timesheet at the end of each week.

What are the benefits of temping?

If you find yourself without employment or want to return to the workplace after some time off, temping is often the most suitable way to ease yourself back into work after a long break.

Often clients will be more open when hiring a temp so they can be flexible regarding what they are looking for on paper, both in terms of experience level and background.

Therefore, temping can be beneficial if you want to try out a new industry or sector without committing full-time to the role.

How quickly will I earn money?

Temps are usually paid weekly in arrears. This means that you will receive payment the week after you work.

You must keep track of your work hours and submit a weekly timesheet – the recruitment agency will process this once they have received it.

Be sure to have provided them with your correct tax code and bank details so everything is in place to make a successful payment on the first attempt.

What should I expect from a temp interview?

Most clients will still want to conduct interviews for a temp vacancy. However, sometimes, in cases where the client trusts the recruitment agency they’re working with, the agency will just be able to submit the most suitable candidate for the role.

An interview can be via video call or face-to-face, and it will usually be a quick meeting to ascertain whether you have the relevant skills and are a good team fit.

This interview is an excellent opportunity to hear more about the booking, see the offices and meet some of the team. All of this will help you feel more comfortable starting the temp assignment.

Will temp work enhance my CV?

Temping is an excellent opportunity to build on your network and experience and fill any gaps in employment.

Too much movement on a CV can appear as a negative point, but there are usually reasons for this, and the right agency should be able to explain this when they represent you.

However, as a general rule of thumb, it is better to be working than not.

Can I still interview for permanent roles?

Absolutely!

We get asked this a lot. Temping should work well alongside searching for permanent employment, enhancing your chances of securing something long-term.

Some temp bookings may need complete commitment, but the agency should advise you of this in the initial briefing if this is the case.

Usually, however, employers can arrange permanent interviews around the working day to provide the minimum disruption.

With so many interviews being held via video call, they are easier to arrange over a lunch break or before/after work.

Could temping be a foot in the door?

You never know where a temp assignment can lead or who you might meet through it.

Therefore, we always encourage temporary candidates to work as hard as possible. You never know when a permanent opportunity could present itself, and you may need to obtain a reference in the future, so it is important to always leave a good impression.

What skills are important when temping?

Temp candidates usually don’t have long to learn the ropes when they start working on a booking, so it is beneficial if they are adaptable and can ‘hit the ground running’.

Therefore, a flexible and positive attitude will be fundamental. Someone proactive, highly organized and attentive to the little details will be a standout placement with a great chance of securing a permanent role.

Key takeaway

Many temp agencies recruit for different roles tailored to various skill sets, spanning several key industries and levels of seniority. Now that you know how temping can benefit you, we hope you feel more confident securing some temp work and building on your experience.

Auria Heanley

Auria Heanley is co-founder of Oriel Partners, a boutique PA and administrative recruitment consultancy based in Central London. She is extremely passionate about providing the highest quality of service to both clients and candidates. Oriel Partners’ clients range from global multinationals to small boutique firms, all requiring the same personal service and high-calibre support.