Workers who sign on with staffing agencies and recruiting companies, such as Spherion^® and others, often do so with the goal of turning their temporary assignments into permanent jobs. In fact, a 2006 study by the American Staffing Association (ASA) indicates that the great majority of such workers (75%) view temporary and contract jobs as a path to permanent employment.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with this strategy, which also provides an opportunity to “try out” a new employer before making a commitment. In addition, most employers are very positive about using flexible staffers to build their permanent workforce. In an ASA study of companies who use temporary workers, 8 out of 10 firms agreed that staffing companies offer a good way to find people who can become permanent employees.  

So, bridging your job from temp to perm is a very attainable goal! But just because you’re job seeking from the “inside” doesn’t mean you’ve got an automatic lock on the position you desire. Follow these five steps to make the most of your unique advantage:

• Confirm the opening.
  Ask your staffing company, or the HR contact where you are assigned, if the position offers the possibility of permanent work. If it doesn’t, keep alert for other full-time openings in your department or elsewhere in the organization.
  
  
• Make your desire known.
  If you want to convert from a contractor to an employee, don’t keep it a secret—let the right people know. Communicate your goal to coworkers and supervisors.
  
  
• Excel in your temporary assignment.
  Remember, not only is a temp-to-perm assignment an opportunity for you to “try out” the position, your employer is likely sizing you up as well. Make sure you are considered a candidate for permanent employment by exceeding expectations in your temporary assignment. Star quality could even result in the organization creating a position for you if one is not currently available.
  
  
• Use your inside contacts.
  If you’ve built credibility and proved your worth to colleagues and superiors, they can serve as references and provide stepping stones to a permanent position.
  
  
• Don’t take it for granted.
  Even though you have an advantage, as a temp, it is still important to approach the interview and hiring process seriously. Make sure you explain why you’re a good fit for the position along with the benefits of hiring you, such as your existing knowledge of the company.

Working your temporary assignment with these tips in mind may help you obtain the permanent position you desire.