The emergence of the ‘gig economy’ and wider use of temporary labor has changed the way we seek jobs. For better or for worse, you have to adapt to this new focus on temp jobs or risk missing out on opportunities.

If you’re really itching to find your next dream job, not just another 9-to-5, then you should keep reading. Our guide will help you succeed at finding and taking advantage of temporary job potential.

Think of this as your next-generation survival guide.

Never Settle

Just because you need a steady job and are desperate for full-time, don’t settle. A temp agency can help land you a paycheck, but don’t be afraid to switch gears. Unlike standard jobs, temporary work is a no-strings-attached opportunity to experiment and find your calling.

Stay Humble

Working for a temp agency is not something only reserved for failures or second-class citizens. If you act like you’re above temporary work, you’ll deprive yourself of valuable work experience. Be open to different career paths, maybe returning to school, or even relocation, depending on the situation.

Moving to new and interesting places can open the door for new job opportunities.

Expand Your Skillset

Working as a temporary employee can be very humbling at first, having to take various training positions. Don’t look at this as a personal slight against your work experience. Instead, take it with stride and learn as much as you can.

Once you move into full-time positions at most jobs, your room for error shrinks considerably. As a temp worker, you can take on new roles and learn skills without fear of failure. Chances are that if an employer is going to be cutthroat when you’re a temp, they’ll be even worse as a regular employee.

Network with Everyone

Temporary staffing agencies are excellent hubs for networking. Everyone you meet is a valuable partner. Every company you temp for has employees, bosses, or subcontractors you might need one day.

At the very least, you can add people on as references for your future full-time position.

Building Rapport

If you’re trying to get your foot in the door, you’re going to need to talk to the right people. It’s much harder to get hired through job ads than it is as a temp worker. You’ll already be past the interview phase and well into forming personal relationships.

The average duration of a temp position is longer these days. This puts you above all other applicants when a permanent position opens up.

You Are Still An Employee

Don’t conflate temporary work with internships. That also means don’t allow employers to treat you like one either. You have worker rights, you are doing regular employee tasks, and should be treated as one.

Move as a full-time employee where you work and you’ll be valued as one.

Temp Job Motivation

There’s nothing wrong with feeling anxious or stressed while having to work temporary jobs. The lack of proper medical insurance and higher salary can really take you back. A temp job is supposed to be challenging, just don’t let it change who you are.

Practice lots of personal motivation habits, study the jobs you do get, and make friends along the way. For more useful tips and guides like these, head over to Lateet. They have lots of great life and business advice to help you succeed.