Temp-to-perm?

Question

I started a temp-to-perm position in early September for an organization I've wanted to work with for a long time. Although I liked the hiring manager(s) during the interview process, they rarely engage with me. I have not had meetings with them, or been introduced to anyone in the organization. I turn in assignments--which are few and far between--on time and receive no feedback. Other coworkers have told me this is standard operating procedure, and that there has been a steady stream of temps in this same position. No one stays because of the lack of communication from these managers. The last temp-to-hire left after 14 months and being told she wouldn't be hired permanently. Should I bail or give this more time? I'm on day 41.

Llama farmer · Answer

As far as I can tell, temp to perm is just a company using contractors in lieu of full time employees. Most around here never intend to extend a job offer, or dangle it as being years our.

Carrie Stiles · Answer

If it's temp to perm that most likely means you got this job thru a placement agency, correct?  If that's the case, the agency is getting the feedback as a part of the contract between them and the company.  Check with your contact at the agency for any feedback.  If there isn't any, ask what they suggest since they're most likely aware of the 'goings' of the former placements.  If not, I might take it upon myself to get on my immediate supervisors calendar for a 'coffee chat/feedback' session, keeping it casual and a checkin to see how you're doing and if there is anything that you could be doing differently.  Good Luck!

LISA MCCARTNEY · Answer

Here's just a short thought.  You have wanted to work for this company and now you have.  If it's still a joy, by all means follow the advice above; however, if its not think of it this way: you've accomplished a goal.

Anonymous · Answer

I know at my company we often fill roles with temps that we don’t plan to ever fill with FTE because it’s too expensive when we factor in benefits and the company bottom line.  We had one person in the part time role for 14 years!  As long as we keep the yearly hours under 1400 we can keep them as temps forever.

Lady Pele · Answer

If it were me, I would probably schedule a 30-minute meeting to review expectations and measurements.  I would bring a list of completed assignments and ensure that each of them provided what was expected.  Then I would ask where to go for additional work if I finish an assignment early.

If everything goes well in that meeting, I would probably ask for a 15-minute touch base every other week to make sure that I was meeting/exceeding expectations and where the manager would like to see changes/improvements.

In the meantime, I would network like crazy within the organization, maintaining a professional, enthusiastic and cheerful disposition.  If that opportunity doesn’t work out, perhaps another within the company would.

LEANNE TOBIAS · Answer

A few thoughts:

1. Looks like this company might be content with a string of temps, but suggest giving it a little more time before bailing.

2.  Agree that you should meet with the managers and see if you can develop a rapport and ask for more work.

3. Can you get more clarity (either from the managers or HR), as to what drives the temp-to-perm process, and how you can qualify for perm?

4. Can you apply for other roles within the company that would be permanent and more interesting/interactive?

Melanie · Answer

Due to your status a ls a temp/contractor the company is not obligated to provide you any feedback.  You are not an employee.  If they have any issues about your performance many companies should and do go directly to the agency to either give feedback or have a temp replaced.  Now you know up close and personal how they operate. Now go find a place that will hire you permanently and will speak to you.

BeckyB_25 · Answer

Is the manager in your hierarchy the only decision-maker? Consider looking at other organizations within the larger company and expanding your network. Temp to Perm can be a big and difficult leap to make regardless of how great you are at what you do (company pay and benefit logistics, etc). Another giant factor is timing. Being at the right place at the right time can make alllll the difference. I ended up making this transition myself about nine years ago, when the full-time employee I was supporting went out on maternity leave, came back, and immediately moved internally to another group. I was the only one who was able to provide a quick backfill. You've worked hard to get in the door. Don't give up just yet. GOOD LUCK!!!!

Christine10520 · Answer

You're halfway to the 3 month point.  By then, you should expect information regarding your performance.  Given that this is a temp to perm job, at the 3 month point, you should be able to ask what the criteria will be for you to be brought on full time, and then hold the firm to it when you have met that criteria.

Don't bother looking for a new position right now, unless you feel you are at risk.  Many firms use temps to avoid making commitments to employees, and rotate through a series of temps for which they never have to apply the same 'rights and privileges' that permanent employees have.  However, once you reach the 6 month mark and no one has indicated that you are on the path to becoming permanent, get your resume out there and look around.  If you find a job, no one will really miss you at the 'Temp to Perm' spot - and you'll be better off for resolving this situation on your own.

Mathieu Dutour · Answer

In your place, I would seriously consider other places. Here is why:
1) Others have told you 'standard operating procedure'. So why would it be any different for you?
2) They will not change because of 'lack of communication'. They are set in their ways and do not see a reason to change and so no reason to speak.
Now, you also say 'organization I've wanted to work'. That is the only reason why you are still there. Things turned out to be different from what you thought and you have to adjust your belief with reality.

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