Everything You Need to Know About Temporary Work
Looking for short-term employment or a flexible work opportunity? A temp job might be the perfect fit for you.
Temporary jobs (often called temp positions) are ideal for workers looking to gain experience, explore new career paths, or re-enter the workforce. Whether you’re in between jobs or testing out a new industry, temp work offers valuable benefits and career-building potential.
What Is a Temp Job?
A temp job is a short-term employment opportunity offered by a company to meet specific needs—such as covering employee leave, handling seasonal demand, or completing special projects. These positions are typically filled through a staffing agency and may last from a few days to several months.
While most temp jobs don’t offer traditional benefits, many workers gain access to perks through the staffing agency if they maintain long-term or consistent placements.
What Is a Temp Agency?
A temp agency (also known as a staffing agency or employment agency) connects employers with temporary workers. These agencies help companies quickly fill workforce gaps and help job seekers find immediate work opportunities.
Temp agencies, like Friday Services, specialize in:
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Recruiting and placing candidates into temp, seasonal, temp-to-hire, or even full-time roles
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Matching job seekers with positions that align with their skills, interests, and availability
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Providing job training, interview coaching, and resume support at no cost to the job seeker
Benefits of Working a Temp Job
Temp jobs aren’t just a backup plan—they can be a smart strategic move for many professionals. Here are some of the biggest advantages of temporary work:
Gain Real-World Experience
Working a temp job allows you to develop new technical and soft skills on the job—perfect for building a resume or transitioning into a new industry.
Explore Career Options
Temp positions let you “try before you commit.” Whether you’re switching careers or exploring different work environments, temporary placements offer low-risk opportunities.
Build a Professional Network
Each placement helps you grow your professional network. Impress the right manager, and your temp job could lead to a permanent role or a valuable reference.
Improve Your Job Readiness
Staffing firms like Friday Services offer training resources, including:
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Resume assistance and interview prep
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Free software and computer training (Microsoft Office, Windows, keyboarding)
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Skills assessments and coaching to qualify for higher-paying jobs
What’s the Difference Between Temp and Part-Time Work?
While both offer flexibility, temp jobs and part-time jobs have distinct differences:
| Category | Temp Job | Part-Time Job |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Short-term with defined start/end date | Ongoing with no fixed end date |
| Schedule | May be full-time or part-time hours | Usually a limited number of hours per week |
| Employment Source | Hired through a staffing agency | Hired directly by the company |
Temp jobs can involve full-time hours and often come with a set contract period, whereas part-time jobs are typically permanent roles with a reduced schedule.
What Is Temp-to-Hire?
Temp-to-hire positions begin as temporary roles, with the potential to turn into full-time employment after an evaluation period. This approach is beneficial for both employers and employees:
For Employers:
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Evaluate a worker’s performance before committing to hire
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Reduce hiring risks and improve team compatibility
For Workers:
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Experience the job and company culture first-hand
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Prove your value and transition to a permanent role
Additional Perks of Working with Friday Services
At Friday Services, we go beyond job placement. We offer:
Training Opportunities:
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Free computer skills training by appointment
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Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint)
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Keyboarding and Windows fundamentals
Benefits for Regular Temp Workers:
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Holiday Pay after 1,200 hours worked in 12 months
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One week of Vacation Pay after 1 year (1,500+ hours)
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Two weeks of Vacation Pay after 2 years (1,800+ hours)
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Affordable health, dental, and vision insurance
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Automatic paycheck deductions for premiums
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Options to add family members to your plan
We’re here to support you every step of the way—with tools and guidance that help you succeed in any role.
Let Friday Services Help You Find the Right Temp Job
Since 1980, Friday Services has helped thousands of job seekers in Western North Carolina and beyond find the right temp jobs and temp-to-hire opportunities. Whether you’re looking for flexibility, fast placement, or a path to permanent employment, we’re here to match you with roles that suit your skills and career goals.
Let’s get started!
No matter where you are in the job search journey, we can help you enjoy the rewards of a job well done.
