Temporary Jobs - The Advance Group

Treat Every Event as a Networking Opportunity

HMG Success on February 15, 2012

Every event you attend, personal and business related, is an opportunity to network. Do not be the person that just shakes his head. Be the person that shakes hands, smiles and learns about the other person. Doing so could help you to find your next position. It may pay more, provide better benefits and serve your long-term needs better. The more people you meet, the more likely it is for you to find someone that needs your talents.

Positive Opportunities to Build Your Network

Putting yourself into a variety of positions will allow you to find the employment you are looking for and need. There are various ways that you can use your everyday event to get attention from prospective hiring managers, business owners or others who could be in the know.

Set out to make new friends and colleagues. Rather than waiting for your friends to show up, set out to meet others. Doing so could help you to build a network that is more versatile. It shows you are interested in others too.

Give back to those who you meet. As you start talking to new people, find a way to stay in contact with them. For example, if they had trouble with their vehicle on the way to the event, offer to send them a text message with your mechanic’s name. If they are interested in a news piece you were speaking about, ask for an email address to send them the article.

Keep your job description to a limit. Even if you are out of work, keep things simple and straightforward. Instead of spending a full minute discussing where you work, say something like “I’m currently helping a small business succeed online.” That gets them interested.

Keep some business cards in your pocket, along with a pen. Though it is easy enough to add someone’s contact information to your phone right onsite, some people are hesitant to give this out. Rather, be sure you can hand them a business card in case they are in town and want to together.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make within an event is not making an impression. Sitting on the sidelines and not participating may be the easy road to take but it will not help you to grow your business or help you to land a new job. Rather, be active. Smile and look people in the eyes. Be memorable in a positive way. When you step away after a few minutes, thank the individual for talking to you. Invite them to contact you at any time. Allow the other person to feel that you gave them something during that initial few minutes.

By taking these steps, you grow your network. It does not matter if you are at your friend’s wedding or a corporate event in your industry. There are connections to be made in virtually any situation. If you make the connections, you could land the position of a lifetime. You can also use Advance Temporary as an opportunity to work with more companies this year, further expanding your network to find a great job.

Best Ways to Use Social Media for Your Job Search

HMG Success on January 30, 2012

Want a new or better job this year? Social media is perhaps one of the best ways to locate and network your way to a new career. It’s a known fact that recruiters have been using social media to check out candidates behind the scenes for a while now, but they did so without candidate’s knowing for the most part. Now, this has changed drastically, with the addition of new applications such as LinkedIn’s recruiting portal and Facebook recruiting apps making their way onto the scene.

Recruiters are coming “out of the shadows” to connect with candidates on social networking sites, so as a job seeker it’s to your advantage to put yourself in the best possible position to do the same. Here’s what you need to know about social media for your job search, so you can do this successfully.

Create a professional profile. The personal profiles you have been using are not going to cut it with a serious job search. Too many posts and embarrassing photos are the norm with personal profiles. Instead, start from scratch with a professional profile that includes a business headshot photo (get a friend to do this for you), a copy of your resume, a link to your professional portfolio or blog, all tied together in a business-worthy looking template. Add in a phrase that describes you and what you want – much like your resume objective statement.
Show off your accomplishments. Your social networking profile should be the spot where you showcase your talent, so make it work for you. Include intelligent posts, with links to your published articles, blog posts, artwork, and projects. Make sure to promote these across many channels by adding them to popular sharing formats like Digg and Sharethis for starters. Write interesting posts in industry forums and link back to them in your social media networks.
Do your research on companies. Social media can be a great way to scope out potential companies you might like to work for. Simply go to each company website and become a follower on all social networks. Then take the time to learn more about the company culture, objectives and people there. Be sure to “like” or follow posts that appeal to you to show your support. Never use social media to blatantly self-promote, but rather to encourage others to get to know you by befriending them.
Participate in social network groups. Social networking is fun because it allows you to go directly to industry specific groups and get to know your peers – oftentimes from around the world. If you are hoping to get into a specific career industry, or if you are about to graduate with a new degree, this insight can be invaluable. Besides, many recruiters visit these groups and post job opportunities on a frequent basis, so you may put yourself in the right place at the right time simply by participating.
Connect with people who count. If you want to land a job, very often you must pass the “gatekeepers” to get in to certain companies or industries. These are people who look at candidates to determine if they have what it takes to join them. Find out who these gatekeepers are and get to know them on social media networks by politely asking for introductions from peers who know them, or inviting them to become your friend. Then take the time to thank each person individually and asking them to share something about themselves first, before launching into your career aspirations. Use this very effective targeted approach, and you may just end up with an invitation to interview for a new job.

Need more tips to be successful with your job search in 2012? Be sure to come back often to the Advance Temporary blog for great job search ideas and support with your career through our temporary staffing services.

Real Job Search Tips for 2012

HMG Success on January 24, 2012

2012 is your chance to seize the opportunities and get a job or launch the career you have always wanted. It is time to make a change. The economy is still rough, with an 8.5 unemployment rate nationwide. There are positions available, but there are also many more applicants vying for those same assignments. To land a career this year, you will need to put your best foot forward, resume in hand and win over the prospective employer with your skills and experience. With the right tools, you will find the process easier to accomplish.

Create a Job Search Strategy

As you gear up for your job search, plan a strategy. Only apply to positions you are truly qualified for; not those that you lack experience or training in. You are wasting your time (and that of the HR staff). Instead of applying to everything under the sun, apply to positions you have true skills in that are most likely to land you a position. Tailor your existing skills to fit the job requirements of the position. This means spending more time preparing a killer resume and cover letter.

At the same time, diversify your search. Employers are using job-posting boards, but many are using other tools as well. Consider local and online networking opportunities. Use social media to help you to connect to the right people. Some agencies still want you to apply in person, but far more are expecting an application through the online resume links on their website. Do not wait for the prospective employer to post a job ad, either. Apply to companies that posts positions right on their website.

Stand Out from Other Job Seekers

There are many ways to do this. For example, when you do get to an interview, avoid the standard or trained answers to questions. Answer in a way that is going to make it look like you did your homework. Be sure to research positions and the company culture before you apply. Often, you can learn a great deal by networking through sites like LinkedIn. Hiring managers may post information there that is helpful to you.

When you are searching or scrambling for a job, it is easy to see an opportunity and shoot off an email right away prior to reading it in full. You want to get in before everyone else does. However, you may be missing the real opportunities because you are not listening to what the prospective employer is looking for in this position. Communication, through words written or spoken, is critical to get right.

Take the time to set your goals, too. As you work your job search, give yourself goals along the way. Possible goals may be the number of jobs you apply to each day. You may join a professional organization, sign up with a contract-staffing agency, or even do some volunteer work to boost your resume. Ensure that you are working towards finding the ideal job for you one-step at a time. You can do this better with goals laid out in front of you.

Get back out there! Rejoining the work force and restarting the job search

HMG Success on December 29, 2011

If you’ve been out of the workforce for a period of time, either by choice or as a result of an unexpected lapse in employment, then you may be facing the daunting task of getting back out there to rejoin the rest of the working world. It’s natural for anyone to feel intimidated, especially if you have not been working outside the home for a while. This is a tough one for parents who have chosen to stop working to raise children, and even for those who have retired but need to go back to work now.

Take heart that this can be done and you can be successful with your job search, if you create a strategy for job search success. Here are some tips from Advance to get you back out there in the workforce sooner.

Create a killer resume – The very first step in any successful job search is to create an effective resume and cover letter. You will spend a lot of time applying for jobs and sending email inquiries to companies, so make sure this time counts with a resume that captures your skills and attributes.
Start networking – As the old saying goes, you often need to be “in the right place at the right time”, so networking should be a the top of your list. By networking on popular social media sites, business networks and forums, and community networking groups – you can put yourself in the right place. Let others know you are actively seeking employment and get ready for the referrals.
Research companies – This is your job search for the perfect career, so you want to work for the best employers. Take the time to research the types of companies that best match your unique skills and needs. Find companies that offer excellent compensation packages and other perks. Focus on companies that have the values you hold dear. Never settle for anything less.
Get a new look – If you’ve been out of the workforce for a number of years, you will want to give yourself a makeover so you can look great for upcoming interviews. Pick out a new hairstyle, get yourself a “power outfit “and you’ll be able to walk into any interview with 100% confidence and a great attitude that will earn you more job offers.
Take temp assignments – Many good companies rely on the services of temporary agencies to find suitable candidates for unadvertised assignments. This means you can be in a better position to get onboard with a highly respected company by taking on temp assignments as often as possible. You may even be able to learn a few new skills along the way, which will further make you a prime candidate for a new job.

Ready to take the leap and land the perfect job? Contact the recruitment specialists at Advance Staffing Solutions today and get noticed by the right employers now.

4 Job Search Stalls to Watch Out For

HMG Success on December 8, 2011

What is stalling out your job search? Today’s economic conditions and bad unemployment numbers mirror the frustrations that many job seekers have. However, by some expert’s calculations, people are often sabotaging themselves out of jobs. As you are applying for various positions, ask yourself if you could be doing anything that could be hurting your chances of success. Would you call you back for an interview? Knowing what the most common job search stalls are can help you to avoid them.

#1: Being a Passive Seeker

One of the biggest mistakes you will make is being a passive job seeker. For example, do you network locally? Do you get out of the house and talk to people in professional organizations associated with your field? Even more so, when someone gives you information about a potential job, do you follow through? If you are making these types of mistakes, you are missing opportunities that could land you the career you want. Ask yourself if you are doing anything that could reduce your success here.

#2: You Aren’t Taking All The Chances

Another common problem that can stall a job search is simply not taking those changes. Misinformation or assumptions can lead you down the wrong path. Realize there are plenty of opportunities for you to land the type of job you want and need even if you do not think you are qualified for the position. In short, just because you do not meet all of the qualifications listed doesn’t mean you won’t land the job. Apply – it cannot hurt.

#3: You Have A Bad Attitude

It is hard to stay motivated and pushing towards success when you are struggling to keep your head above water. However, when you walk into a job interview or talk to someone that may know of a position for you, they are not going to go any further if they can see that bad attitude on your face. Keep yourself positive. Keep striving to stay motivated throughout the process, too.

#4: You Are Holding Out

Are you the type of person that is holding out for that perfect job with the corner office or with that big firm you just want to be a part of? Chances are good holding out like this is going to hurt you in the long term. You can always wait for that ideal job after you are hired and working for another firm now. Employers with the better jobs are more likely to consider you if you are working in the field anyway. Sometimes, taking a job that is in the field, even if it is not the ideal position, is the route to take.

Job seekers can easily become frustrated. Instead of making every day about finding a job, do give yourself one day a week at least where you walk away from it all to clear your head. Most importantly, give yourself the opportunity to succeed by always staying the course. You may find it a bit difficult to these things, but doing so can help you to find the right job sooner rather than later.

What is an Interviewer REALLY Asking When They Say “Tell me About Yourself”?

HMG Success on November 27, 2011

You are in an important interview for a job you really want at a company that gets you really excited about your career. As you sit across from the potential employer, you smile and know things are going well. Then, they ask the question, “Tell me about yourself?” What do you say to that?

The common answer that interviewees give is about their work experience. Some will discuss their personal lives. Others will answer with comments about what they like to do and what they did last night. None of these answers is the right one from the perspective of the person giving the interview.

What’s He Really Saying?

When heading to an interview, realize that the person asking you questions is not always going to be looking for the answer to that question. In other words, he or she may ask one question but is probing for a completely different one. It is up to you to understand the true meaning of any question prior to answering it. This is not always an easy process, though.

In order to know what the interviewer is really saying, you need to do two big things: listen to the entire question and notice any cues he is giving you. If you can do those things, you will be able to answer any question, including this one accurately.

What Is the Interviewer Looking for in Those Questions?

In most situations, a job interviewer is looking for the best candidate to fill a specific position. To learn if the person sitting across from them at the desk is that person, he needs to find the answers to some very specific questions, including these.

Can you do the job? Will you do the job?
What special skills do you have that others do not have that makes you a better choice?
What experiences do you have that makes you a better choice over other applicants?
What do you have to offer to me that is something the company is lacking?

Knowing what information the interviewer is after, you can provide a better answer to the question asked to you. Ask yourself, how you can answer these questions in a way that provides the information the interviewer is really looking for you to provide.

Know the Cues

Secondly, notice any cues that the interviewer is putting out there. These can be key indications of what information is necessary and what may not be. More so, the cues are often signals to you as to how you should answer questions. For example, the following are some cues you may see.

The interviewer is distracted by something else in the room.
The interviewer is interrupting your replies, which shows he or she is impatient.
He keeps looking at the wall.
He is slouching.
He is listening intently to what you are saying.

If the interviewer seems distracted, he or she may be annoyed with how long your answers are. If he is interrupting, you may not be answering in the right manner.

Tell Me About Yourself

Keeping all of this in mind, the answer to this question comes down to just a few things. Can you communicate well with others? Do you have the ability to set goals and to stay on track? Can you handle rejections? In other words, are you able to answer these questions in a way that delivers the responses he or she needs?

Get ready for a great new part time or full time career when you work with Advance Staffing Solutions. Let us help you get ready for those upcoming interviews so you can be successful in your quest for the right job.

Confessions of an HR Manager: Why I Love a Great Staffing Agency

HMG Success on November 15, 2011

A special thank you to our client, Meredith Soleau, Human Resources Director at Ed Schmidt Auto, Inc. for writing this post.

I’ll never forget the first time I called Advance Staffing Services. I was beyond stressed.

My Lead Administrative Assistant was going to be out for a medical emergency, and we had no idea when she would be able to return to work. It was a total crisis. Visions of me answering the phone and making customer receipts danced through my head.

I needed help. Thus began the beautiful relationship between the Ed Schmidt Auto Group and Advance Staffing.

Finding help that day was easy. It was honestly easier than ordering a pizza. They delivered Jacque to our doorstep the next morning, and she was absolutely perfect. She handled the Administrative position much better than I ever could have, and she was already trained! We ended up loving Jacque so much that we’ve found her a permanent position in our company, and she is now our employee.

I’ve really relied on Advance Staffing over the years. I call them for a variety of staffing needs.

Temporary Assignments: They handle both short and long term temporary assignments.
Temporary to Hire: I can “test” and employee and decide if they would be a perfect fit before I hire them on my staff.
Direct Hires: They take care of my entire recruiting process.
Professional Search: They seek out the top talent in the industry and feed me the best. This is especially useful when you never stop recruiting for very hard to find, niche positions.

As the head of a small HR department, I’ve found there are many advantages to using a staffing agency.

Cost & Time Effective
My time is worth money. The time it takes to recruit, hire, and train an employee is valuable. And when I make a hiring mistake? It’s not as if I can just send them away. There are additional costs involved with replacing someone and leaving a position open during that time.

Advance Staffing removes cost per hire/cost of turnover concerns from the equation. If I am not 100% satisfied with whom they’ve sent – they send me someone else. If I need someone tomorrow – I have them on time, every time.

I no longer spend time to placing expensive help wanted advertisements, weeding through 100’s of resumes, interviewing, and waiting on background checks. I simply call them and they deliver quality people time and time again.

It’s Flexible
I need extra help during our busiest times of the year. The car business is cyclical, and I don’t want to be saddled with actual employees that would need to be terminated during out slower months. So whether I need a little extra help during our annual inventory audits or extra people to assist with customers, it’s great to know I can adjust my staff size with temporary help based on business need.

Forming Relationships
Jacque is a perfect example of how long lasting relationships can be built with Advance Staffing employees. She was able to show us her abilities, and when a position opened in our company, we were able to hire her. She was noticed as a top performer before I ever had to place an advertisement. A connection was made between us (the employer) and Jacque (the employee).

At the end of the day, that’s what human capital is all about. Humans.

Want to work somewhere FUN? Prepare for an interview at an employer with a unique company culture.

HMG Success on November 13, 2011

In many companies today there is a focus on providing not only a great salary and benefits package, but also on giving employees a fun atmosphere to work in. This movement started with the first company that decided a casual, fun workplace was more conducive to happy and productive employees—and for good reason. Studies have consistently shown that happy employees lead to higher levels of productivity, which translates to more revenues and greater creativity. This leads to innovation like never before seen. Just think Google and Apple and you get the general idea.

As you start interviewing for new assignments, you may encounter companies that promote this “fun” workplace. In order to put the best foot forward, it’s best to prepare in advance for a different style of interviewing you may experience. Here are some ways to get ready for an interview at the next funhouse company.

Before the interview, review the corporate website and any articles that pertain to the company as a whole. You will generally be able to learn much about a company by reviewing any press that the company has received, including the executive leadership. Try to understand what the company stands for by reading the mission statement. This will come in handy when you are asked to come in personally for an interview.

If you have the opportunity, speak with the direct hiring recruiter to find out what the general corporate culture is like. Ask what the inside of the building is like, what are some of the events that the company has, and what the general population of the existing staff are like. Does the workplace include any on-site perks like a café, coffee shop, exercise center, a skateboard or bike path, entertainment spaces or other aspects of a fun environment?

Check with your staffing agent to find out what the dress code will be for the initial interview, because he or she has been inside the company. If the agent tells you business casual, be prepared to dress smartly for the interview, but not too over the top with a suit and tie, or too casual with jeans and flip flops. If this fun work environment includes ultra-casual attire, wear at least khakis and a collared shirt to avoid appearing too “stuffy”. Dress codes do vary from one fun workplace to another, so don’t assume to know what will be expected of you.

Ask around to see if any of your personal contacts know anyone who works at your target company currently. If you normally associate with people in the particular industry you are trying to get employed in, chances are someone knows a little more about the company than you, or has had a chance to visit there for an interview. Friends within the company can also shed more light on what it’s really like to work in that environment, which can give you more to go on as you interview. You’ll likely get a more accurate picture of what the fun environment is about, rather than a somewhat biased view from a recruiter who is trying to court you for a job there.

Remember, that you only get one chance to make a positive impression, and that the company has one shot to entice you to want to work there. Sometimes what seems like a “fun” environment to others may not be the right environment for you to work in. On the other hand, it may be the perfect place for you to grow in your career.

4 Tips for a Long-Distance Job Search that Get Results

HMG Success on October 30, 2011

Several areas of the country have faced worse economic conditions than others. Some areas have been so depressed there is little prospect for opportunities for job seekers. As a result, many people have decided to conduct a long-distance job search to try and find employment in other communities. Trying to conduct a long distance job search can be a daunting task. The areas are unfamiliar. Following the right steps can make the job search easier.

Focus On Options

One of the surprising aspects of conducting a job search in another area is the greater competition with other candidates. It can also be a more time consuming process. It is necessary to focus and concentrate on the jobs being sought after in this job search, which may be different depending on the locale. For this reason, start by limiting the number of locations to search in. Take into account your personal situation and apply it to these areas. Look at cost of living, local schools, and quality of life. Many areas try to advertise to people moving to their areas by showing what their areas have to offer. Look into what areas have the best job prospects in your industry. Limit the search to twenty positions get a better idea of prospects in each area.

Access Your Network

Having a well-developed network can help uncover long-distance career opportunities. Friends and family who have relocated can be consulted regarding job opportunities. Professional contacts can also be utilized to learn of new job openings. Use online searches for terms like “telecommute”, “relocation assistance” and “remote” for the best results when looking for a long-distance job. Consider joining a nationwide professional association in your industry. These organizations offer job search assistance to members and direct access to unadvertised openings in different parts of the country within the industry.

Social Media

The use of social media has enhanced the ability to research information and communicate with others remotely. Sites like Facebook and Twitter allow more people to communicate from other parts of the country. Developing a professional profile and a strategic business network through these sites can help enhance job prospects. People very often share information on who is hiring and what kinds of jobs may be available. Sites like Digg and Stumble upon may give news and information about employment in several locations.

Register With Employment Firms

It is a good idea to register with a national staffing firm, like Advance Temporary Services, to access openings across the country. Getting involved with the local office of a national company gives access to resources for openings throughout the country. Representatives should be aware that you are willing to relocate to assist your job search. Contacting recruiters and search firms in the areas of interest can give information about employment markets.

A long-distance job search can be challenging, but not impossible if you follow the above tips. Using the proper resources can make it easier. Get a job start on your long-distance job search by working with the career experts at Advance Temporary Services today.

Turn Temporary Assignments into Permanent Positions

HMG Success on August 31, 2011

Source: graur razvan ionut / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Looking for a permanent position with a great company? Try temporary staffing assignments! There are many reasons why you will want to consider accepting temporary work while you search for a more stable career option. In an effort to cut costs, many more companies are turning to temporary workers to maintain productivity, without the long-term commitment until the economy picks up. At this point, temps will be in the prime spot to be offered perm positions. A recent article in USA Today indicated that as many as 5% of new positions with big firms will be temporary assignments while the economy recovers.

Staffing agencies abound with many part time and full time temporary assignments that can help you stay abreast of career openings, give you plenty of real work experience and provide a nice income while you search for the perfect career. Here are some ways to turn temporary jobs into permanent roles.

Communicate your desire for permanent placement. One of the best ways to position yourself for a permanent opportunity is to speak up and let your staffing representative know. Since there are many candidates who are happy to work for a temporary time frame, recruiters do not automatically know that you are looking for more permanent placement. Never assume that your temp job will become a perm one. Communicate and often that you want a long-term job and most likely you will be thought of when the contract is up.

Become part of the corporate culture fast. A great way to land yourself a full time permanent assignment from a temporary work arrangement is to blend into the company culture that you are working in. Get to know as many people at the company as you can, offer to take on more responsibilities, and learn what makes the company tick. Take the mission statement on as your personal motto and become the go-to person in your area of expertise. Then when your contract comes up for renewal, you will already be a valuable part of the team the company will want to keep on board.

Respect your temporary assignment. From your very first day onward, be sure to follow the rules at your temporary assignment for the best chances of getting hired on. This means, showing up for work on time every shift, dressing for success, and following all instructions as given. Don’t try to test the waters early on, rather get to know the people you will be working with by observing and asking plenty of relevant questions. Show interest and pride in your work daily. Treat all others with respect, especially customers. You want to be remembered for your positive qualities if you want to get hired permanently.

Keep learning new skills. Being a temporary worker means being in the best possible position to learn all you can about new things. Take this time to learn as much as you can about your role, the industry you are working in, and the people you work for. Take classes in any area you may feel weak in as many staffing companies offer additional training opportunities both online and in the office. Seek out mentors and earn insight from more experienced employees. The more you know, the more valuable you will be when it comes time to hire people.

Need more career tips and access to great temporary assignments to launch your career? Please feel free to explore our Job Seeker’s portal at Advance Staffing Solutions today.

For Candidates: Temping Dos and Don’ts

HMG Success on July 27, 2011

Becoming a temporary worker can be an ideal solution for candidates who are either unable to find a permanent position or for those who are “trying on” jobs before settling on a specific career. Temporary workers can enjoy above average wages, flexible work hours and a wide variety of different tasks to be found at each assignment. Additionally, many companies choose to keep down hiring costs by only hiring candidates through temporary staffing agencies.

There are some temping dos and don’ts for handling this correctly so that it will be a positive experience for all. Here are some tips for temping the right way.

Do – Apply to the Best Temporary Staffing Agencies

It’s always a good idea to have several options in your employment by registering for work with several quality temporary staffing agencies, such as Advance Staffing Solutions. That’s because the best staffing companies are contacted by upper level companies and can offer a wider variety of assignments at higher pay scales. The larger staffing companies take the time to get to know you, your needs to match you up with the best assignment. They also very often offer employee benefits and bonus programs.

Don’t – Go Overboard and Register for Every Employment Agency in Town

You may think you should apply everywhere, but this will backfire. This is because you may find yourself being offered below average wages by staffing companies that don’t have a solid reputation in the business. Remember that the smaller agencies are usually competing with each other for business and so they will take any and all assignments to try to place people in roles that they may not be 100% suitable for. You could find yourself in an assignment you don’t like with little pay going this route.

Do – Keep in Touch with Your Agent at the Temporary Services Company

The person to whom you will be reporting to, as a temporary worker can be your best ally if you know how and when to communicate. Be sure to touch base with your agent at least once per week, and always respond quickly to phone calls or emails for the best chance of getting great assignments. If your personal information or work status changes, be courteous and let your agent know as soon as possible.

Don’t – Call Your Agent Daily To Nag Them for Work

This tactic has been used in the past by ill-fated temporary workers. If you call your temporary agent daily, all you do is annoy them and you most likely will never get called for an assignment, Remember that you are not the only person looking for work and that for every minute you are on the phone trying to make the recruiter feel guilty about your lack of work could be a minute spent contacting companies looking for more assignments. Be kind and respect the time of the recruiter you are working with.

Do – Arrive at Your Assignment on Time, Dressed and Ready for Work

This is actually a grave mistake that new temporary workers have made. The key to being successful in a temp job is to show up for work at the agreed upon time, in fact be early for your shift! Make sure you find out what the dress code of the assignment calls for, whether it is business casual or steel toes boots. Be dressed and ready to work on the morning of your assignment. Have your notebook and pen ready to take notes, and leave the personal business behind when you get to the temp assignment.

Don’t – Lie About Your Background

The vast majority of temporary staffing agencies make a concerted effort to always check the background of all of their candidates. This can mean checking past work references, educational and training credentials, and running a criminal background check and drug test. If you think you can get an assignment by not revealing something shameful in your past, think again. Lying will not only waste the recruiter’s time, it can also cost you in the form of background and drug test fees which some agencies are passing along to candidates who try to fool them.

Do – Take Advantage of the Training and Resources at the Staffing Company

Along with placing candidates into rewarding temporary assignments, many staffing companies offer a wide range of other training and information services for job seekers. This is to help candidates to put their best foot forward, to brush up on work skills and ace interviews. Some agencies even offer resume and cover letter help, skills testing and job search counseling. Take advantage of these services and you will be more successful in your job search.

If you would like to learn more about great temporary assignments, be sure to visit the Job Seekers portal we offer at Advance Staffing Solutions today!