Q&A with the Experts: Talking Temping with Kate Perrin of PRofessional Solutions

Interviewed by Phaedra Brotherton, CPRW, JCTC, CDF

A few years back, I worked with Kate Perrin of PRofessional Solutions, LLC, the Washington metropolitan area’s first and only public relations temporary services agency, to hire a  temp-to-perm communications specialist (who turned out to be excellent and became a permanent hire).  

As one who as a freelance writer/editor landed two great full-time jobs through temping when transitioning to full-time work, I know that temping in professional positions can be an excellent way to get in the door, learn about the culture of an organization, and give employers a taste of how you’ll contribute as an employee. Kate graciously agreed to give some tips and pointers.

Q. Can you tell us a bit about specialized temporary agencies for professionals? How prevalent are they?

Specialized temporary agencies focusing on specific professions are an important part of the industry. There are temp agencies for accountants, graphic designers, cooks, and more.  In fact, clerical and administrative office work accounts for only 28 percent of temp employees; 37 percent are industrial workers, 13 percent are professional and managerial staff, another 13 percent are in engineering, information technology and scientific work, and 9 percent work in health care. 

Q. What are some ways job seekers can really get the most out of working for a temporary agency?

The same is true in temping as in all jobs: Be reliable, be flexible, and tell your employer (in this case the temporary agency) about your strengths, the skills you’d like to use, and what career path you’re looking for.  Temp agencies want to make good matches and make their best associates happy and will try to use that information to benefit you, the client, and the agency. 

Q. What advice would you have for someone who wants temporary work, but also wants the flexibility to look for a job and go on interviews?

While most associates are looking for permanent jobs, temporary agencies need to provide the support for which clients are paying.  That said, some assignments are part-time and by their nature allow flexibility.  I advise individuals to establish their value to the client before asking for time off for an interview. Offer to schedule it first thing in the morning or at the end of the day, and offer to shorten lunch breaks or add time to make up work as needed.  And be sure to give two weeks of notice once you land the job; the temporary agency needs to identify your replacement and allow overlap time to accommodate the client’s needs! 

Q. If someone were interested in a career change--for instance someone interested in moving into the PR field--how could temping benefit them? Would they need to have PR experience to get a temporary position with your company?

Temping can be a way to re-direct your career path but probably not to get into an entirely new field.  Organizations only decide to pay for a temp in a specialized field when they need someone with those skills and experiences.  Without PR experience our clients would not accept a temp from us.  But if we can show that related experience in another communications venue (reporter, marketing communications, etc.) could make the associate a good match, we will try to help them change the direction of their career path. 

Q. Anything else you'd like to add about temping?

While you’re looking for a job you still need income, so temping is a way to demonstrate your strong work ethic and your value to other organizations. Temping also can provide new contacts, additional skills, and content knowledge of a new industry to add to your resume.  And for 33 percent of temps, it leads to an offer of permanent employment.

Thanks, Kate!

Kate Perrin, CEO, founded PRofessional Solutions in 1994 after working for 20 years in public relations and marketing communications for DC area associations and educational institutions. To learn more about Kate and PRofessional Solutions, please visit www.prstaffing.com. 

If you're interested in getting some personalized feedback on temporary agencies, please feel free to contact Phaedra at info@resumesandcareerstrategies.com to learn about her complimentary, no-obligation consultation.