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The dilemma: You're unemployed or underemployed and uncertain about what you really want to do. You still must earn a living, but you haven't quite found that magic bullet that will propel you into a career that makes you truly want to get up and go every morning.
The answer may lie in "serial temping" -- working closely with a temp agency to be placed in various settings. Temporary assignments offer more than a paycheck; they give you a chance to learn about companies from the inside.
Look, Listen, Learn
When on assignment, observe and soak up the professional environment. Can you envision yourself becoming a part of this atmosphere? Even if you don't want to work for this specific company long-term, you can learn how similar systems operate and what's required of those with permanent positions.
"Most people do not realize how many different types of positions there are in one company," says Denice Jee-Brown, owner of Southern Staffing in New Orleans. For example, if you serve as a receptionist at an advertising firm, take the opportunity to learn about the different roles within the company, from the person who coordinates commercials to the one who sets up props for photo shoots.
Jee-Brown started temping 18 years ago and worked for a number of different companies before launching her own temporary staffing agency. Although she originally aspired to be a nurse, she found her passion in helping others find their best occupational fit. She realized her true niche was helping people.
Introduce Yourself
You must become an active participant in the search for your true calling. While not everyone will own his own firm, temping can be the vehicle that drives you to career satisfaction.
Learn about the people you work around or for, and you may find one job type that truly appeals to you as a possible career. "If you are in the company any length of time -- more than two or three weeks -- people who work there will likely share with you what they do," says Jee-Brown. Take breaks and lunches with the employees, and listen to what they have to say about their jobs.
Do Your Homework
"If you see a job type that fits in with what you really want to do, you have to take an active role in getting there," says Jee-Brown. "Do the research, find out what your skill level needs to be to achieve that position, and then do what it takes to enhance your skills." Rework your resume so it reflects your new career goal.
Staffing firms will often help you map out your career plan, once you settle on the type of work. "Recognizing what it is going to take to get where you want to be professionally is key to achieving your goal," Jee-Brown explains. Once you find a position or industry that really appeals to you, ask your staffing firm to place you in more companies that will allow you to develop the skills needed for that work, she suggests.
Temping may be a way for you to make cash in interim periods, but it can also help you find your niche and go for it.
