What's the best answer for an interviewer when he or she asks you why you've been temping for so long?

Question

Let's put it this way; I have nearly a decade of temp work experience on my resume.. it's been that long since my last real permanent job.. now, I am looking to land a permanent position again.. how can I explain myself why I haven't held a steady job w/ benefits for such a long period of time?

Answer 1

Can you spin it along the lines of ... after my last full-time job ended, I wanted to see what else might be available out there, and to check out other companies

Answer 2

You could say that you've used your time temping as an opportunity to observe a variety of workplaces and the dynamics therein, helping you to know what qualities and conditions would be necessary components in a work environment that would inspire you to want to work there permanently--and that you have found such at this place (that you are interviewing at). Be ready with the specifics of course (the "such").

Or, you could say that the flexibility of temping has allowed you to pursue other interests (if this is true), allowing you to develop into a well-rounded individual, then emphasize the skills that you've gained from that, and how they would serve your perspective employer. (Example, my friend perma-temps half a year and then travels the globe back-packing half a year, going on 7 years now. But he can emphasize interpersonal skills, communication skills, understanding of global situations, ability to adapt to changing situations, etc. should he ever want a permanent gig again.) I think many employers appreciate someone who isn't one-dimensional.

In short, I think there's always a way to put a positive spin on why you've temped so long. Good luck.

Answer 3

Tell them that you've enjoyed being able to experience different work environments and to work on different aspects of whatever skills you have. Say that with the experience that you've acquired through temp working, you know exactly what kind of company you are looking for, and that you know that the company you are interviewing for is the one where you want to stay and build a career. Make sure that you go into all the good points of the various jobs that you've had. Not only talk about how you would like to "move up the chain" in your own field, but ask the interviewer about the companies' policies on long-term advancements. Ask about retirement plans and other benefits. This will show that you are in it for the long haul and won't just up and quit after 6 months. Good luck and congratulations on the interview!

Answer 4

"I decided early on not to accept a permanent position until I was certain that I could dedicate myself completely to the career path I chose for myself. I am now in a position to commit to giving an employer 100% and I'd like that to be here with your company!"

Answer 5

Hmmmm, ... having done the foot work into the particulars of that company ..... reframe their question out of it being about you and make it about them....... reflect back their own value and strengths as to why you "now" want to come to work for them on other than a temporary basis. ~ Rudy

Answer 6

The best answer is to put the best possible face on the truth. The truth resonates ... and they'll know if you're fudging.

Answer 7

was the temp job with one company> I nedd more info. if it was with other companies. different parts of the state let them know that you needed to move and now you need soemthing permant

Answer 8

If you had a personal reason for doing it, then say so. If it was out of your power, then blame it on the economy and the war on terrorism!!!

Answer 9

Uhhhh.... tell the truth?

You want us to make up a ten year alibi? What are you hiding? If nothing, then be honest.