Introduction:

Welcome. You're reading a transcript on Links at Bain and Gray, a catalogue of podcasts centred on all things business support in the workplace. Our aim is to bring you interesting and relevant content that will keep you up to date and thriving in your role.

Tray: Hello, this is Tray Durrant, and today we're discussing how to be a successful temp. I'm joined by Betsy Grigson. Welcome, Betsy.

Betsy: Thank you, hi Tray.

Tray: Betsy is a consultant on our temporary team and has unique insights into being a successful temp. She’s been a temp herself and now manages temps for our clients. So, let’s get right into it.

What Makes a Good Temp?

Betsy: One of the most important things is being adaptable. We work across various industries, from finance and corporate to design studios. You can be placed in different environments, so adaptability is key. Another big one is having a "muck-in" attitude. You often need to hit the ground running, especially on short-term bookings.

Tray: Absolutely, that "muck-in" attitude is essential. Do you think that applies across all experience levels, whether you're on reception or working with the C-Suite?

Betsy: Definitely.

Tray: It’s about keeping your wits about you and getting stuck in. Now, in terms of technical skills, how can candidates stay up-to-date?

Betsy: Workplaces change so much. It’s crucial to stay informed and research the company you're going to. Being tech-savvy is also important because each organisation will have different requirements.

Tray: And using your temp consultant is key, right? Ask questions to make sure you’re prepared.

Betsy: Exactly, that’s why we’re here—to help make the temp role as smooth as possible for both you and the client.

Why Do People Choose To Temp?

Betsy: There are many reasons. Some are actors between jobs, others are graduates who are undecided about their career path, so they temp to explore different industries. Then there are career temps who love the flexibility, often using temping to fund travel or pursue other interests.

Tray: Or maybe they have a side business and temp when they need extra income.

Betsy: Exactly, people temp for all sorts of reasons.

Tray: One challenge with temping is keeping your CV up-to-date without it looking too scattered. How do you suggest temps manage that?

Betsy: You don’t need to list every role. Short-term bookings can be grouped together, depending on the industry or role you’re applying for. Tailoring your CV to the job you’re going for is important. You also want to avoid gaps in your CV, so make sure to include relevant roles, even if they were in hospitality or front-of-house positions.

Tray: Grouping roles and tailoring your CV for specific jobs is key. That way, you can show your experience without it looking like you've jumped around too much.

Betsy: Exactly. And we can help with that—consultants can bring your CV to life by explaining any gaps and highlighting relevant experience.

Tray: The profile section at the top of your CV is also a great place to explain why you’ve had several temp roles, especially if you've been travelling or working on other projects.

Betsy: Yes, definitely.

The Benefits of Temping

Tray: What do you think are the main benefits of temping?

Betsy: It opens doors to industries you may not have considered before. It broadens your experience and offers temp-to-perm opportunities. You might start a temp role and find it turns into a permanent position in an industry you never expected to work in.

Tray: That's particularly relevant for those starting out, like recent graduates. Temping allows them to explore different industries and find out what suits them.

Betsy: Exactly. That’s how I started—I temped in all sorts of industries, even insurance, which I never imagined working in.

Tray: It can definitely break down preconceptions about industries, right? You may think you know what insurance or financial services are like, but they’re often different than expected.

Betsy: Absolutely, they're not always what they seem.

Tray: If you had to create a guide for temps, what would you say is the best way to approach temping?

Betsy: Be open-minded. We, as consultants, have your best interests in mind, so be willing to consider roles, even if they don’t seem like a perfect fit at first. Transparency is also key—let us know what you do and don’t want, and don’t feel bad about saying no. Communication is everything.

Tray: Communication really is essential, especially when we’re working on tight deadlines. If we’ve filled one role, something else will come along, so keeping us updated is important.

Betsy: Yes, even if you’ve taken another temp role elsewhere, just let us know. It saves everyone time, and we can stay in sync.

How to Become a Temp:

Tray: So, what are your top tips for anyone looking to temp?

Betsy: Keep your phone on you and check your emails regularly—temping moves fast, and you could get a role that needs filling the same day. Also, be open to new industries, and always have some suitable office attire on hand. You never know when you’ll need it.

Tray: That’s a great tip—being prepared for last-minute assignments. Thanks, Betsy. It’s been great chatting with you. I hope this has been helpful for everyone listening.

Betsy: Thanks for having me. Bye, everyone.