Tips when you are temping at a client

Posted by Andrew on May 27, 2016

This weeks blog comes to us from Gemma Pritchard, one of our recruitment consultants in Waikato. There is some very good advice for people temping with a client for the first time.

Communication

When temping, communication is very important. Always be sure to contact your Recruitment Consultant immediately if:

  • There are changes made to the assignment (duties, hours, duration etc.) among other things, we want to work with you to ensure you are paid correctly
  • Any problems occur with your assignment (your duties, work environment etc.) we are here to help and work with you and the client to get these resolved.
  • You are unable to attend an assignment due to illness or other reason – it is important to contact us prior to your start time if you are unable to attend work.
  • You incur a work-related injury while on your assignment – it is essential that you report ALL workplace accidents or near misses. We want to work with you to ensure you are as safe as possible while at work.
  • You change your name, contact details or bank account details
     

What to wear to work

  • Dress appropriately for each work environment you are placed in to. If in doubt – ask your Recruitment Consultant what you should wear.
  • If you attend a client interview prior to starting your assignment, take note of how the other people working there are dressed – this can be really helpful.
  • You will be told if you need to wear any PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) while on assignment. If you are instructed to wear PPE it is compulsory to do so.

Punctuality

Essential to making a great first impression – be sure to be on time to work.

  • Try to arrive a little early on the first day and adhere to your expected hours of work
  • Allow yourself plenty of travelling time – if you are unsure of how long it will take you to get to work, or if you are unsure of where you are going, it could be a good idea to do a “dry run” the day before so you are not stressed or late on your first day.
      

Be Professional and Confident

We understand it can be a little daunting walking into an unfamiliar environment and working with people you may not have met before. If you are especially nervous – talk to us! Your Recruitment Consultant will be happy to try to help and put you more at ease

  • Be professional and friendly – smile and introduce yourself to your colleagues, tell them you are a new temp from Superior Personnel.
  • Familiarise yourself with the work environment. Chances are you’ll be given a tour and shown where things are, and possibly put through a full induction. Remember as much as you can – but don’t be afraid to ask questions if you forget anything.
  • Use your initiative. If you run out of work to do, ask your supervisor what they would like you to do next. 

Ask Questions

Asking questions shows you are interested and proactive, and you’ll be more likely to feel more at ease and confident in what you are doing.

  •  Ask questions to ensure that you understand work instructions
  • If you aren’t told, ask when your supervisor would like you to take your breaks – don’t make assumptions

Confidentiality

  • When working on various assignments, you may be privy to confidential information about where you are working. Do not discuss specific details of your work with anyone except for your supervisor or Recruitment Consultant. 

Cell phones

These days it is common for most people to have a mobile phone, be sure to follow these guidelines while you are on a temporary assignment.

  • Ask permission from your supervisor if you need to make an urgent personal phone call during work hours
  • Switch your mobile phone off or put it on silent while you are working and only use it during your break times.
  • Some clients may have rules such as “no cell phones on the shop floor” if that is the case, ensure you leave your phone in the staff room with your other belongings or in your car.