High School

Very few students plan their high school curriculum based on the goal of working on a temporary basis. Most people follow a chosen career path and find along the way that temporary work suits their personal lives, educational goals, or professional ambitions better than a full-time, long-term position.

High school courses in business, word processing, computers, math, and English will prepare you to work as an administrative or clerical temp. Otherwise, study the subjects that fit with your chosen career field.

Postsecondary Training

To work as a temp in any professional capacity, such as nursing, accounting, law, or information technology, you must complete the educational requirements for that profession and have some work experience. Many clients require temporary workers to have college degrees or solid training before offering non-entry-level assignments such as managerial or technical projects. Good computer and communication skills are a must.

For students with some postsecondary training, working in a temporary, entry-level position can provide paid work experience and contacts that may help in later job searches.

Other Education or Training

Temporary workers must continue to update their skills throughout their careers by pursuing continuing education classes, workshops, webinars, and other learning opportunities. These resources are provided by professional associations, industry vendors, and colleges and universities.  

Certification or Licensing

Certification or licensing is required for some professional temporary work. For example, a traveling nurse must have a license to practice in the state or country where the assignment is located. Likewise, lawyers must have a valid license to practice in the assigned location. Agencies will usually help temporary candidates apply for additional licenses or seek reciprocity.

Temporary employment firms require most applicants to have prior occupational experience in their specialty, although general office workers or laborers may just need a high school diploma.  

The transient nature of temporary work is not for everyone. Imagine having to adapt to a different set of coworkers with each assignment, not to mention a new office environment and the politics that go with it. In addition to adaptability, other important traits for temp workers include strong communication, organizational, and time-management skills, the ability to follow instructions, and a talent for working both independently and as part of a team, when necessary.