How do you handle references and recommendations as a temp worker?

1 Choose your references wisely

Not every client or supervisor you work with as a temp worker can or will provide you with a reference. Some may have contractual obligations, privacy concerns, or simply not enough time or interest to do so. Therefore, you need to be selective and strategic about who you ask for a reference. Ideally, you should choose someone who knows your work well, has a positive impression of you, and is willing to speak on your behalf. You should also ask for permission before listing anyone as a reference, and inform them about the type of job you are applying for and what skills or qualities you want to highlight.

3 Update and organize your references and recommendations

As a temp worker, you may have a lot of references and recommendations from different sources and periods. To make the most of them, you need to keep them updated and organized. You should contact your references regularly, and let them know about your career goals and progress. You should also keep track of their contact information, availability, and relationship to you. You should also categorize your recommendations according to the skills, industries, or roles they relate to, and tailor them to the specific job you are applying for. You can use tools like spreadsheets, databases, or online platforms to store and manage your references and recommendations.

4 Be honest and respectful

One of the most important rules of handling references and recommendations as a temp worker is to be honest and respectful. You should never lie, exaggerate, or fabricate any information about your work history, skills, or achievements. You should also respect the wishes and boundaries of your references and recommendations, and not pressure them to say or write anything they are not comfortable with. You should also thank them for their support, and acknowledge their contribution to your career development. By being honest and respectful, you will build trust and credibility with your potential employers and your professional network.

5 Follow up and follow through

Another key rule of handling references and recommendations as a temp worker is to follow up and follow through. You should always inform your references and recommendations when you use them for a job application, and let them know the outcome. You should also follow up with the employer or the agency that requested them, and confirm that they received them and that they were satisfactory. You should also follow through with your promises and commitments, and show that you are reliable and consistent as a temp worker. By following up and following through, you will demonstrate your professionalism and interest in the job opportunity.

6 Seek new opportunities and connections

Finally, as a temp worker, you should always seek new opportunities and connections that can help you grow your career and expand your network. You should look for temp assignments that match your skills, goals, and preferences, and that can offer you learning and development opportunities. You should also connect with other temp workers, agencies, clients, or mentors that can provide you with advice, support, or referrals. You should also keep an eye on the trends and demands of the market, and update your skills and resume accordingly. By seeking new opportunities and connections, you will increase your chances of getting more references and recommendations, and more job offers.