Is temporary work right for you?

Our most frequently asked questions on temporary work

Is temporary work right for you?
Is temporary work right for you?

posted 22 Apr 25

Search Editorial Team

Have you considered a career made up of temporary contracts? Or are you considering taking up temporary work while you look for something more permanent? Take a look at our most frequently asked questions on temporary work to see if it’s the right fit for you.  

1. Who might be better off doing temporary work? 

The two perks of temporary work are its flexibility and its pay. A lot of different demographics could use either of these. 

For instance, students and recent graduates might gain experience and flexibility to work around studies with temporary work. People looking for a career change can start with temporary work, or parents and caregivers who need flexibility around their other responsibilities. Freelancers and travellers can also use temporary work to set their own work boundaries. 

Temporary and contract workers can also be specialists who offer a niche service or expertise to companies as and when they need it.  

2. What are the main benefits of temp work? 

Temporary work is beneficial to professionals who might find themselves facing a gap in their CV or would otherwise like to take up work while they look for other roles.  

The main perk of temporary work is that not on is the salary paid quickly, weekly and sometimes daily, but it’s also higher than a permanent salary to offset the lack of benefits.  

Plus, temporary work can be very flexible. If you’re willing to look for it, you can work around your life with temporary work.  

If you want a full breakdown of the benefits of temp versus permanent work click here, you can find a guide to every aspect on our website. 

3. What are the potential downsides of temporary work? 

The main downside of temporary work is the instability of it. You will need to be self-disciplined enough to keep looking for new work whenever a contract ends. Depending on the nature of your work, that can be months or weeks.  

Similarly, it might be harder to progress within temporary work, as you might get less chance for promotions or internal training. However, this depends on the company, and it can easily be the case that you can gain experience as you work on a temporary contract. 

You also have limited benefits as a temporary staff member, without pension payments or sick pay.  

4. How easy is it to transition from a temp role to a permanent position? 

That depends on a variety of factors, including the market and industry you’re in, the needs of the company you’re working for, and, of course, your performance at the company.  

Some of these things are beyond your control, but you can push the situation in your favour through a number of tactics. Firstly, make it clear you want a permanent contract. Have a meeting with your managers or higher-ups to convey your interest.  

Consistently deliver high quality work, but also, volunteer yourself wherever you can. If new projects come up, offer to help. This feeds into our secondary tactic: build good impressions with the people you work with. Integrate yourself into the team as much as possible and show yourself as someone who is willing to learn and adapt to get people on your side to get your permanent contract. 

5. With temp vs permanent contracts in the UK, does temp work offer better flexibility? 

For the most part, yes. With company’s embracing flexible working, permanent work is closing that gap. However, temporary work is still the best way to work around life and commitments like parenting and caregiving. With a shorter commitment, temporary workers can take breaks between contracts and have the option to accept or decline shifts to better work around their lives.  

6. Is temporary work in my industry common? 

This question can really affect whether you consider temporary work and whether it’s temporary work you want, or more likely a fixed-term contract. For instance, a lot of office work and tech freelancers offer their services on the basis of a fixed-term contract.  

Some industries that have really embraced temporary workers include Business Support, Call & Contact Centre, Construction & Property, Health & Social Care, Hospitality, Nursing, and Social Work. Discover in demand sectors.

If you are considering temporary work you might want to stay away from law, finance, engineering and more senior roles like executive and senior management.  

7. Is temporary work worth it when it comes to experience for my career progression? 

You can use temporary work for career benefits depending on how you work. Variety or focus? Do you want to be a specialist, so you offer a skill and look for similar roles until you’re an expert, or do you pick an industry and try a little bit of everything within it. Jack of all trades or a master of one? 

The best part of temporary work is that you are in control, so you can direct your career experience where you want it to go. You can build a stronger CV that lists many avenues of experience and skills gained with temporary work. 

8. How do I find reputable recruitment agencies for temporary work? 

Contact Search to find thousands of temporary roles ready to be filled. Our expert recruiters are available to offer advice on where to find your next temporary role in your industry. Get in touch today and take the next step towards a flexible and rewarding career with Search. 

Know What Happens Next 

As your temporary contract nears the end, start preparing for the possibility of a permanent offer — or a smooth exit. 

Understand the differences between your current temp contract and what a permanent offer might include. If you’re offered a role, you’ll want to be ready to discuss salary, benefits, notice period, and progression opportunities. 

It’s also smart to plan for the alternative. Make sure your finances can handle a short gap between jobs if needed, and stay in touch with your recruiter or hiring contacts in case a new opportunity comes up quickly. 

What If a Permanent Role Isn’t Offered? 

Sometimes, even if you’ve done everything right, a permanent role may not be available. Budgets change. Hiring freezes happen. That doesn’t mean the effort wasn’t worth it. 

Here’s what to do: 

  • Ask for feedback. Find out what worked and where there’s room to improve. 

  • Request a recommendation. A positive reference can open doors elsewhere. 

  • Stay connected. Ask to be considered for future roles or opportunities in other teams. 

  • Speak to your recruiter. They may already have another role lined up that fits your goals. 

Most importantly, don’t take it personally. If the role wasn’t right for now, the experience still adds weight to your CV — and builds momentum for whatever comes next. 

Final Thoughts 

Turning a temp job into a permanent one takes focus, initiative, and a bit of patience. But with the right approach, it’s more than possible — it’s common. 

Stay proactive, speak up about your goals, and keep developing your skills. Whether you land a permanent offer in your current role or take what you’ve learned to the next opportunity, you’re still moving forward. 

And if you ever need support navigating the next step, a good recruiter can help you make it with confidence. 

Looking for your next role or ready to go permanent? Explore temporary and permanent job opportunities with Search and get support from specialists who understand what employers are looking for. Browse jobs or speak to a recruiter today.