Temporary work in check: All the advantages, disadvantages and tips for your entry

What is temporary work and how does it work?

Temporary work, also known as agency work or labour leasing, is a flexible employment model: you are permanently employed by a temporary employment agency, but work temporarily for an employment agency. You submit your application directly to the temporary employment agency. The agency then places you with suitable companies, where you then start work.

In everyday life, this means that you receive your employment contract and salary from the temporary employment agency, but your place of work and your tasks come from the client company. The duration of the assignments can vary, from a few weeks to several months or even years.

This can be a great advantage for you as an applicant. You get an uncomplicated introduction to various professions and at the same time gain valuable experience in different companies and industries.

Advantages of temporary work

Temporary work brings you more than just a quick job. It offers tangible benefits, especially in the phase of (re)entering the labour market:

1. fast entry into the profession

Do you want to get back to work as soon as possible? Temporary employment agencies are in daily contact with companies looking for short-term support. This means you can start a new job quickly - without any lengthy application processes.

2. variety of locations and industries

Whether nursing, skilled trades, industry, logistics or commercial professions - temporary work is offered in many areas. This allows you to familiarise yourself with different professional fields and find out what really suits you.

3. payment according to tariff

Reputable temporary employment agencies pay according to collective agreements. You can also receive bonuses for overtime, night work or weekend work.

4. stepping stone to a permanent position

Many companies use temporary work to get to know potential new employees. Those who prove themselves often have the opportunity to be taken on. The temporary job then becomes a permanent employment contract with the client company.

5. gain work experience

Temporary work is a good opportunity, especially for career starters, people returning to work or after a longer break, to reorient themselves in working life, develop new skills and gain experience that will have a positive impact on their CV.

Possible disadvantages and frequent criticism of temporary work

Of course, there are also aspects of temporary work that you should be aware of. Because not every point is ideal for every life situation:

1. changing locations and duration of use

Flexibility is required. Depending on the industry and the job, you may have to change companies frequently. This can be stressful, especially if you value a stable team or a fixed place of work. What's more, some assignments only last a few weeks or months. You should therefore be prepared to keep getting involved in new things. 

2. equal pay only after 9 months

According to current legislation, so-called equal pay - i.e. the same pay as the permanent workforce - generally only applies after nine months at the same company. Before that, you will receive the salary according to the collective agreement of the temporary employment agency. In some sectors, it is also possible for you to earn more from the outset than permanent employees in a comparable position. In this case, your salary will not be adjusted downwards after nine months.

3. temporary employment contract is a regular employment contract

This is not a disadvantage, but a common misconception: your employment contract with the temporary employment agency is legally valid, with all labour law regulations. Pay attention to fair conditions, transparent working hours and regulated holiday entitlements.

How to find a reputable temporary employment agency

Not all temporary employment agencies work the same way. That's why it's important that you pay attention to a few things:

• Collective labour agreement: Fair pay according to collective agreements is a must.
• Transparency: You should receive clear information about your assignment, salary and working conditions.
• Personal support: Good providers accompany you through the entire application process and are also there for you after you start your assignment.
• Further development: Many reputable temporary employment agencies offer further training opportunities, e.g. training courses, certificates or qualification programmes.

You can also search specifically for providers who specialise in certain sectors such as care, IT, production or warehouse logistics. Depending on what suits you.

Is temporary work right for you?

The decision for or against temporary work depends on your individual goals and circumstances. Temporary work is particularly suitable if you:

• want to get into the job quickly and easily,
• get to know different areas of application,
• do not (yet) have any training or work experience,
• want to return to work after a break,
• you are looking for a new job to tide you over,
• want to keep your options open for a permanent position later on.

Temporary work can be an ideal stepping stone, especially when starting out. You gain insights into different activities, develop new strengths and have the opportunity to develop professionally.

Conclusion: Your opportunities with temporary work

Whether as a stopgap, a fresh start or an entry into a new industry - temporary work can open many doors for you. It is important that you inform yourself well and choose a reputable company that treats you fairly and supports you individually.

Temporary work has long been more than just an "emergency solution". For many people, it is a genuine career path that creates prospects and sometimes even opens up completely new paths in life.