At QPS, we offer a variety of positions that are temporary, temp-to-hire and direct hire. The type of job placements we have available at a given time depends on the needs of our client companies. For temp-to-hire and sometimes temporary employees, the client company will also decide if they will hire on anyone. Although this decision lies in the hands of employers, the probationary period is crucial to temp employees. It is an opportunity to show themselves as invaluable workers. Read more as QPS recruiters give tips and examples from their experiences on what to do to be a stand out worker.

1 - Be timely & have good attendance

A good track record goes a long way. Being punctual and having good attendance shows a reliable worker. Yet, circumstances may arise or employees may have an appointment that will lead to an absence. In this situation, communication is key. Most employers are understanding of situations when they know about them ahead of time. Failure to notify your QPS recruiter and the company ahead of time will not only cause problems for the employer, it will jeopardize your status.

Brenda Kuhn, Skilled Trades Recruiter: "Just not showing up or quitting without giving notice (2 or even 1 week) is highly risky, especially if you did not communicate this with your recruiter and you left him/her out to dry. It will not leave a good impression and you could lose out on potential references with the company…Of course things happen, but before you take on a position you should have those dates mentioned to your recruiter upfront and communicated (e.g. doctor appointment, child conference, etc.). This way the employer will already know of them and if they are ok with still bringing you on knowing you will be missing a few days here and there, that is on them, not you as the candidate."

2 - Show effort & have a positive attitude

Employers and recruiters will take notice when employees put in effort and have a positive attitude towards their work. It can be especially beneficial when working with a team. "Having a positive ‘go get it’ attitude will rub off on others," said Kelby McElroy, Assistant Branch Manager of our Green Bay office. "This makes a working environment tolerable for all." Showing commitment and a positive attitude can also impress employers and create an impact.

Amy Grover, Skilled Trades Recruiter: "An employee of ours was let go from a temp-to-hire position due to attendance issues caused by car trouble. He had a good attitude and was apologetic about the situation, so we offered him a temporary position with a more flexible schedule. He has not missed a day, even though he continues to have car trouble. He finds a way to get to work through public transportation and rides from friends. Due to his commitment and positive attitude, he has actually been hired on by the company."

3 - Be productive & show a willingness to learn

An overall good work performance is essential to doing well in the job and at the company. Treat the temporary period as a working interview. Employers evaluate performance on a daily basis and form their decision based on your everyday efforts and willingness to learn.

Emily Sullivan, Gurnee office Assistant Branch Manager: "On multiple occasions I have had employees hired on before their contract was completed due to their strong work ethic and willingness to learn. These employees made themselves apart of the team and proved themselves to be reliable."

Laura Nava, Placement Coordinator: "Productive employees help in the growth and goals of the company…Adrian didn’t have any manufacturing experience, but with his great work ethic, he was hired and is now a full time employee who is now getting promoted. It goes to show that if you put your all in a position, you will achieve all of your goals."

Although there may be many factors that are not within a temp employees' control, focus on the things that are. Read more about how to be an ideal employee here.