Temp Agency Primer

I was talking via email with a writing chum this weekend about temp agencies. It occurred to both of us that not many of us know a thing about how to “work” an agency, from choosing one to maintaining a working status. Since I’ve been working with one for over four years now, I’ll share what I know. Not that it’s the do-all-end-all guide to temp agencies, but it may help a little.

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You’re busy right now, right? Overworked a little? That’s a great reason to steal a few hours from your day and get to a temp agency. Because you’re so busy working, you’re not marketing (I know you – you’re just like me). The work will be completed and you’ll be idle.

The idea is to get on the rosters now in order to secure a gig when things dry up. Temp agencies – good ones – screen their clients. For writing and editing, that means you’re going to be tested. It’s a process that takes a few hours from your day, but it’s worth it in terms of work.

What Agency is Best?
That’s tough to tell without an interview. See, as they’re talking to you about your experience, you should be doing exactly the same. What kinds of work for writers or editors do they get in? What percentage of their work is writing/editing gigs? How long between requests from their clients for writing/editing work? Who are their typical clients requesting such work? That’s how you know if this agency is one you can call on during the lean times.

For my money, I’d start with Aquent, Boss Staffing, and the Creative Group. All are reputable places, and I’ve been an Aquent “talent” for longer than I’ve worked anywhere else. They’re very well organized and their staff works with you, not against you. Consider them your personal agent.

How Often Will I Work?
If the agency gets a lot of editing and writing assignments, that can be personal choice. I can call Aquent at any time and make myself available for work. It may be a week or two, but usually they have something on hand or coming in. Some temp agencies have an online personal page for all talent, and there you can set your availablity. Again, with Aquent, they actively check those pages.

There are times you’re not available and your agency still calls. It’s okay to turn down work. They’ll call back. The availability of reliable, good talent is pretty hard to come by. If you work your heart out for the temp agency and maintain a professional demeanor at their client’s location, you’ll not lack for work.

What about times when you take a long-term gig only to have work at home pick up again? That’s fine. Always let your temp agency know you’re freelance and that this is a possibility. I’ve had to drop out of long-term commitments for that very reason, and they still call. Just make sure to give them ample notice and let the employer know you’ll be stepping out because of commitments at your “regular” job.

Temping is a great way to supplement the income when times get tough. Bonus – you can make some very strong connections, too. I’m still friends with my manager at the last temp gig. We walk in the park once a week together and she’s now part of my meditation group. Other contacts have turned into work opportunities beyond the temp gig itself. Networking is abundant, and it can ensure that temping is something you won’t need to be doing regularly.