Temporary jobs have become very common in today’s world. Some people work temp jobs in between permanent ones, while others choose temp work for the long-term because they enjoy the flexibility and diversity it can offer. Either way, there are two important reasons to showcase these positions effectively on your resume – you want potential employers to see how valuable that experience was, but you don’t want to be seen as a job-hopper.
TEMPORARY JOBS THROUGH A PLACEMENT AGENCY
If you worked for a staffing service that sent you to a variety of short-term placements, this is the best way to show it on your resume:
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
Receptionist & Office Administrator | Baker Staffing, Vancouver BC | 2009-Present
Completed more than 50 temporary placements, ranging from 1 day to 3 weeks, providing reception and administrative support to corporations and non-profit organizations throughout Greater Vancouver. Prominent placements included:
- Replaced the Executive Assistant to the Senior Vice President of Operations for Hanson Manufacturing during a 3-week vacation…(briefly describe scope, tasks, and achievements).
- Provided administrative support to the accounting department at the head office of Canada Airlines for 2 weeks during a comprehensive external audit…(briefly describe scope, tasks, and achievements).
- Describe another major placement.
- Describe another major placement.
The number of placements that you highlight depends on several factors. If this is the bulk of the work experience that you have, consider adding several placements and more detail because you want to attract the employer’s attention with this section. However, if you have other experience that is much more relevant, and the “quality” of these temporary placements is not that impressive, you may want to limit it to 3-4.
TEMPORARY JOBS FOUND ON YOUR OWN
Many people simply prefer working temporary or contract jobs, and seek them out specifically. They gain diverse experience in several different working environments, and enjoy the variety that it offers. However, it’s important to show on a resume that these positions were meant to be temporary, so that potential employers don’t view you as someone who can’t hold onto a job:
CONTRACT EMPLOYMENT
Accounting Clerk | Hamilton-Clark Distributors, Vancouver BC | 2010
Completed a 4-week contract in a 12-member accounting department. Provided year-end clerical support to the accounts payable and accounts receivable teams. (Briefly describe scope, tasks, and achievements.)
Project Assistant | Dunning Office Equipment, Vancouver BC | 2010
Supported the IT department in the safe and secure transfer of more than 150 computer workstations and related equipment to a new head office location across town. (Briefly describe scope, tasks, and achievements.) Completed the 2-week project on schedule.
Ready to fast-track your career? You’re just steps away from connecting with some of the top employers in BC! Check out temp jobs in your area.
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