M.A. Smith 
If you want your temp job to turn full time, here's what you need to know.
Temp jobs often get a bad rap, but in truth, they can have many advantages. Depending on your situation, the short-term commitment can be exactly what you need. Plus, if you have been on the job hunt for some time and have not yet found a role, a temp job can help you keep working and expand your skills while you continue your search. But what if temp jobs aren't simply a stopping point in your career? What if, rather than a detour, they can be a stepping stone?
If you play your cards right, that's exactly what can happen. “Temporary” does not always mean temporary, and it is possible to turn your temp job into a full-time position. Follow these tips and you'll be on your way.
Check your attitude at the door
No matter the hours or how much it pays, a temp job is often not a professional's first choice. As a result, it's easy to walk into your shift feeling disinterested and frustrated. This is a mistake though. Your dissatisfaction often is obvious and hurts any chance of turning this job into a permanent role.
Think of your current situation as paid training. You're learning new skills, networking with potential employers, and building your resume. These positions give you the chance to practice the skills you already have as well.
One of the best ways to turn a temp job into a full-time position is by being positive. Having a good attitude will set you apart from your co-workers — happier workers tend to produce faster, make fewer mistakes, and help reduce others' anxiety. These traits are noticed and will increase your chances of being offered permanent work.
Related: Should You Include Temp Jobs on Your Resume?
Make them remember you
Floor managers recommend potential candidates to the hiring manager. Therefore, the only way to get the vote of confidence you need is by getting noticed. Take time to reach out and build a professional relationship with your manager. Many managers won't take the initiative to reach out because they expect you to leave within a short timeframe. Go above and beyond your responsibilities to help, volunteer for more difficult tasks, and be the first to accept overtime. Just don't go too overboard.
Focus on building rapport with other full-time team members as well. Like the managers, they probably won't go out of their way to welcome you. Make it a point to get to know your co-workers in a way that helps to build a professional friendship. Don't be afraid to ask them for the occasional pointer or offer help when they need it most.
Go the extra mile
On that same note, if you want the manager's recommendation, you have to prove you are a worthy candidate. Treat your temp job like a full-time position, or act like you're interviewing for a new job. Show up early for each shift to give yourself time to prepare. Don't race out when it's time for lunch or the end of the day. If you act like you're leaving soon and don't give it your best, the floor manager will assume this is your typical work ethic and give the recommendation to someone else.
Show the manager you're willing to go the extra mile. Volunteer to take other co-worker's shifts when they call in sick, stay late when needed, and don't be afraid to ask the manager what they need. Explain your desire to transition into a permanent role and that you would like to take on extra tasks to learn the job. Ask the manager if you can shadow some full-time employees to learn more about the department and standard procedures.
Talk to the hiring manager and supervisors
No one will know you want the job unless you tell them. There's nothing wrong with talking to human resources and asking about full-time opportunities. Who knows? They may need to fill a position quickly. Your initiative helps remove extra steps from their already-hectic schedules.
Don't wait until the last minute to tell them what you want. The last week on the job is not the best time to ask questions about full-time positions. Many managers already have made their decision and submitted recommendations, and human resources is already making plans for the new crew. Be straightforward from the start by telling them your intentions. But, on the other hand, don't be too pushy. If they tell you jobs will be posted after your temp contract expires, be patient and take the time to prove your effectiveness.
The nature of temp jobs is in the name: temporary. But by taking the right course of action, you can use your temp job as a way to get your foot in the door — not just a three-month-long gig. Follow these tips and you'll be on your way to that full-time position
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