Like many, this wage earner has chosen temporary employment as a career. Today's competitive environment encourages companies to utilize a more flexible workforce, and temporary employment is a part of that. For the employee, working temporary assignments can be intimidating. While it can be like having the first day on the job jitters day in and day out, the experience will also add to an employee's marketability in the workplace.

Following are some helpful hints about making temporary employment work for you.

• Be confident. You're there because you have the skills the client needs. You're filling a gap in the organisation. You are appreciated.

• Take responsibility. Don't use "being the temp" as an excuse. Use it as an opportunity to learn, to ask questions, to help out.

• Be open and flexible. In today's workplace, temporary assignments are available in all industries and skill sets. Flexibility and a willingness to try will get you more calls from the temporary service. You can never tell when the next career opportunity may appear.

• Be ready to work. Take care of any obstacles to your employment before you make yourself available, including transportation, day care arrangements and personal appointments.

• Be punctual. Consistently being on time shows that you enjoy what you're doing and desire to continue.

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