Pros and Cons of Working for a Temp Agency

Did you know in an average year, fifteen million people work temporary and contract jobs? Here are the top three pros and cons of 2022 staffing employment. 

What are the pros of temp work?

#1 Flexibility

A temp job will typically have a fairly flexible schedule. This flexibility gives you the time and space to look for a more permanent position while still having a stream of income. 

#2 Possible Full-time Opportunity

Although you might start out with a company as a temp, there can be a possibility of transitioning to a full-time role at the end of the contract. In this way, you are able to test out the waters of the company and how you feel in that specific type of role and make new contacts and connections while you’re there. Nearly half of the employees who choose to partake in temporary or contract work do so in the hopes of gaining permanent employment at the end of their contract (ASA-Digital, 2019). 

#3 Fill in Resume Gaps

New college graduates and those looking to make a career transition can especially benefit from temp work. Companies look for experience in addition to schooling. A temp job could be just the experience that you need before applying to a full-time position. Temp work looks a lot better on a resume than a work gap, in addition to the new skills, you will acquire during your time. 

What are the cons?

#1 You Might not be Paid Top Dollar

Unless you have a significantly unique skill to bring to the table, it’s likely that you won’t be compensated as well as you would be in a full-time salary opportunity. This varies depending on the company and role you are seeking. 

#2 End Without Warning

There is always the possibility of a temp position ending sooner than expected. This can occur due to changes in management, early project completion, or not enough sales made during a busy season. Be aware that although temp work can be flexible, it can also be uncertain. 

#3 Lack of Benefits

There is a running theme among temp jobs of a lack of benefits, such as sick days or paid vacation. This also means the inability to receive health and/or dental care from the company. These special perks are usually reserved for full-time employees. 

The most important thing to consider when working with a temp agency is what you want to ultimately get out of the experience. It’s a great option if you’re in between jobs and need a source of income while you find something more stable and long-term. 

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