How often does temp-to-hire actually result in a job?

Question

I am currently working in a temp-to-hire position as a receptionist. I would like to recieve a job offer, but after 3 months, nothing is forthcoming.

I asked my supervisor for a performance evaluation, but she wants to wait a week so she can gather information from other people here. I am very eager to know what her plans are for me; I'd be willing to wait another month or two, but she suggested she might want to keep me temporary for as long as a year.

Should I start looking for something else, like a direct-hire position? Or should I just wait it out and hope for the best? Please give me your suggestions.

Answer 1

Many companies are using "temp to hire" as an evaluation method. If they hire someone and they do not work out firing is legally messy and leaves a company open to many discrimination lawsuits. It also ups the companies unemployment premiums. It is very common in today's business world that they will use you temporary for 6 months to a year before hiring you permanent.

Answer 2

If the employer  wanted a permanent person they would not have hired a temp.  Temps  are cheap and easy to get rid of, as the  others have said.  The economy being  what it is temps are becoming more and more common.

I am a full time employee as an  administrative assistant and did not get a performance evaluation until a year had passed.

The question you really should be asking yourself is,"Do I want to be a receptionist for the rest of my life?"

Answer 3

In my experience from when I was a temp, not very often ;)  I believe that a lot of the time, the outside company is merely wanting to get the temp worker to come into their establishment and doesn't really have the intention of hiring.  That's just between us and the wall :)  Some people do end up getting hired, but it's not too commonplace.  It's usually more cost effective for them to not have to hire someone on a full-time basis and pay job benefits if it's not a 'professional' job such as 'human resources specialist' or such.

Answer 4

Hi,my husband is on contract he started the job in 1995 & is still there.

I personally would stay contracting as no job is safe.

Good Luck

Answer 5

Yes, I would be looking for other opportunities.  I was in a similar situation and I waited around for an employer who only at the last minute said "maybe" and kept stringing me along for ages.  It was cheaper for them to keep me temp, then having to invest in me as a full-time employee.

Answer 6

as g.t. stated it's easier for companies to use temps these days.  less messy to fire or replace, they don't have to pay you benefits and can usually work you for less pay per hour.

i'd look for a perm position.  unless you like temping.