• Have a "can-do" attitude. When I ask my clients why they use temporary employees, their No. 1 answer is, "They get the job done." This means temporaries pick up where others drop off.

• Be the type of person they can rely on.

• Be inquisitive. Questions show an interest in getting the job done right.

• Try different settings. More companies than ever are using temp-to-hire as a tool for testing out whether or not a potential employee fits into their company. Use temporary employment to try out different environments, different companies. It's less stressful than an interview, and you can also determine if you really want to work there.

• If you liked an assignment, ask to be requested the next time they need someone. Between assignments, call your temp service regularly. The squeaky wheel gets the oil.

• Turn a one-or two-day assignment into a week, or a week assignment into a career. Even though you may be finished with the original task, there may be other work available. Ask if you can help with something else, or maybe another department might need help.

• Keep eyes and ears open for opportunities. If you discover a position within the organisation that interests you, let your employment service know. Put them to work.

• Remember who the employer is. It's sometimes easy to for get, especially with longer assignments, that while working temporary, the temporary employment service remains the employer. As your employer, the service is there to help. If you have a concern, talk to them.

• Don't be "just" a temp. Be someone who is proud of what you are accomplishing. It will show in your performance.

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