ON-THE-JOB AUDITION - Career Expert Offers Five Tips for Turning a Temporary
Assignment Into a Full-Time Job

TORONTO , Jan. 28 /CNW/ - In today's employment environment, temporary work continues to stand out as a bright spot. And, according to leading temporary financial staffing firm Accountemps, companies are beginning to turn these positions into full-time roles more frequently.

"As we emerge from the recession, many companies who are not yet ready to hire full-time staff are turning to project professionals to maintain productivity and assist with key initiatives," said Kathryn Bolt , president of Accountemps' Canadian operations. "When ready to make a full-time hire, businesses often turn to their successful interim staff who are already familiar with company policies and practices."

Bolt added, "Temporary professionals essentially are able to audition for an employer while assessing if the job is the right fit for them."

Accountemps offers the following five tips for turning a temporary assignment into a full-time job:

    
    1.  Choose the right partner. Reach out to your network and tap the
        services of a staffing firm specializing in your field. Staffing
        professionals are well connected in their local business communities
        and can serve as advocates for you when speaking with hiring
        managers. Also, take advantage of free training opportunities offered
        by the firm to help build your skills and the value you bring to
        employers.

    2.  State your objective. Let staffing firms and potential employers know
        you're ultimately looking for a full-time job. If they understand
        that upfront, they may be able to place you in a role more likely to
        lead to that result.

    3.  Take a long-term approach. Once you're on the assignment, bring the
        same intensity to the temporary job you would to a full-time
        position. Adapt quickly to the organization's corporate culture and
        start contributing immediately. In addition, maintain a positive
        attitude: Employers will assess how well you handle constructive
        criticism, setbacks and other job-related challenges as part of your
        overall performance evaluation.

    4.  Observe the written and unwritten rules. Follow office protocol and
        ask questions when clarification is needed. For guidance, watch how
        top managers respond to certain situations and model your behaviour
        on theirs, as appropriate. Also seek feedback on how you're doing and
        how you can improve in the role.

    5.  Let your personality shine. Employers want to see how well you'll fit
        in with the team. Actively participate in meetings and join
        colleagues in offsite events where possible. Expanding your
        connections within the company will work in your favour, so be sure
        to build rapport with other employees.
    

Accountemps is the world's first and largest specialized staffing service for temporary accounting, finance and bookkeeping professionals. The company has more than 360 offices worldwide and offers online job search services at www.accountemps.com.

For further information: Kristie Perrotte, [phone], [email protected]