4 Interview Mistakes Temporary Candidates Should Avoid

Many people get nervous for interviews, but knowing what to expect can help you prepare beforehand and calm your nerves. Interviews for temporary positions are necessarily a little different from full-time job interviews. Knowing how to approach an interview as a temporary candidate is crucial for successful placement in a new temp position. Read on for four of the major interview mistakes to avoid when applying for a temporary job. 

A Failure to Understand What the Employer is Looking For

This can be confusing for temporary candidates who are used to interviewing for permanent positions. Traditional interviewing may involve a discussion of future goals and long term development available to the candidate, but temporary jobs designed to be short term will not focus on this. To avoid miscommunication, review the job description of the position and expectations thoroughly so you can be clear on explaining why you are a good fit for the position. 

Talking About Passions Rather Than Skills

When interviewing for a temporary position, an employer wants to know that you have the skill set required. They are less interested in your big picture aspirations. Focusing too much on your career goals or passions in an interview may lead an employer to believe that you will not be a committed or productive employee. To help the employer see the type of worker you are, temporary candidates should give examples of similar work you have done in the past and the technologies you have used. 

Not Doing the Research

No matter what type of position you are applying for, it is essential to do some research on the job and the company. It may even be more crucial for temporary candidates to research their positions, especially if they have not had much experience working in this way before. Even if you are a quick learner, you will want to know what you will be doing when you begin the position. Learn what you can about the role and consider how your specific skills and experience can help your employer meet their goals. 

Responding Incorrectly When Asked About Long-term Goals

An employer may ask you about your long-term goals to determine whether you will be happy in a temporary role. If you “take the bait” and tell them you are hoping for a permanent position, this may deter them from hiring you. The employer looking for temporary candidates wants employees who know what they are signing up for and who will be content with the limitations of the position. 

Let First Team Staffing Be Your Employment Solution

First Team Staffing, located in Baltimore, MD, specializes in recruitment and placement of professional and temporary workers. The company, founded in 1982, is now a national leader in our industry. In our 35+ years of business, First Team has remained hands-on, relationship-based, and dedicated to partnerships we forge with our clients. We are proud to help our clients achieve their goals by providing them with a flexible and qualified workforce while providing genuine career opportunities to candidates. 

First Team Staffing has offices in Baltimore, Aberdeen, White Marsh, Columbia, Bowie, and Sparrows Point, MD. We have recently opened offices in Tennessee, located in Nashville, La Vergne, and Mount Juliet. Visit us online or in-person today to start your job or employee search, or reach us by phone at 410-719-0404. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter for employment advice and company updates.