What are your experiences temping? How much per hour should I expect? Can I fit it around a current job?

Question

I have a current part time job (alternating between 2 and 3 days a week) and want some extra income. I'm considering temping so would welcome any advice, tips etc.

How much should I expect to receive?

Does it mean a difference office everyday or are most assignments longer?

All experiences would be very helpful positive and negative.

Answer 1

most temp jobs are mon-fri full time and travelling to various areas week by week, there isn't any that I know of that are only to fit in with your days. If you get one you have to let tax office know or you will pay a fortune in tax, Is there a tax office near you? they normally have evening shifts for telesales.

Answer 2

The only advice I can give is try to find something in the same building or area where you work. We spend a great deal of time traveling when working part time, and believe me that's when you truly understand the meaning of "time is money". I wound recommend to ask your current employer if they know of someone who's looking for someone part time. This may open up more hours where you work now!

Answer 3

In terms of money, it depends on where you're located ... the Answer above is incorrect - you'd get £14 per hour in London for a very Senior Secretary or PA; I used to earn £10 per hour as a Team Secretary in a Big Four accounting firm or £8 per hour on reception.  I guess in other parts of the country it would be about £6 per hour for most admin jobs - you might get a little more for data entry.

In terms of assignment length, for most temps they can be hugely varied - from a one-year maternity cover contract, to a two-week annual leave cover contract, to a one-day assignment covering a switchboard because the regular receptionist is sick.  Now, in your case, you're likely to be limited to the last type only ... therefore if you don't have switchboard experience and you don't have prior temping experience, it's unlikely that you may get much work.  It's almost certain that you won't get an ongoing temp assignment for two days per week - they're almost non-existent.

I don't think it is the best bet for you.  If you need extra money, either leave your current job to find a full-time one, or take on a second part-time job.  You may find work in market research or telesales which would fit around your other hours.

Answer 4

I would depend on what job you were temporarily doing!

Answer 5

it completely depends on your age, experience and location. obviously places like central london pay top whack but theres the travelling etc etc.

as for fitting it in with your current job... it might work :S but generally temp positions last a week sometimes longer. you should be able to get the odd day work to fit around your job but you probably wont get it every day!

for example, when I was 19 a couple of years ago, well qualified and worked for a minimum £9-10ph in Orpington/Bromley areas and surrounding on general admin/reception/PA positions but they generally lasted at least a couple of weeks covering holidays, sick leave etc. If I'd been bothered to go to London (no thanks!) I'd probably have expected about £14ph? like i said, it all depends.