Temporary jobs are good for making money while you are looking for a permanent job, but another way to view them is as paid training for your future positions. Here are a few ideas to get the most out of your temporary position.
Take advantage of as much training as possible during your temping time. If your employer or a vendor offers either in person or online training, schedule time for them. Your employer wants you to be able to use the tools they have to the best of your ability even in a short term position. You will gain experience using specialized software and you can add this to your job skills set.
Volunteer for special projects in new areas. If you only have some skills for a project, it might be enough to start work on it. As you work on it, you can learn additional skills or expand on the skills you already have. As an example, for most of my library career I have done reference. In one recent position, the library moved to a new library vendor software system and I assisted in re-cataloging some material. While I was learning the new software, it also sharpened up my cataloging skills.
Finally, take time to meet with your co-workers both inside and outside your department. You can find about what duties and skills people have in different positions and this could help you decide if you want to explore a new area. And, of course, you will also expand your professional network.
INALJ Jobs always has temporary positions listed and library placement agencies usually have a variety of short term and long term temp positions. It could lead to something new and better for you.
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