If you’ve been a temporary worker you know the feeling arriving at a community for the first time; there might be some nervousness, not knowing what awaits you on the other side of the office door; there might be excitement because you’re excited for the opportunity; there might be a mixture of both.
As a former manager I can tell you that there is also a mixture of nervousness and excitement on the other side of the equation as well. Nervousness because a manager is not sure what kind of employee you’re going to be, and excitement because help is on the way! I have worked with amazing associates and some that I called the home office and said, “Never again!!” How do you make the experience a positive one for you and your temporary community home?
- Plan on arriving at least 10-15 minutes before the start of the shift-especially on your first day. This will help you get the “lay of the land” before your shift starts. Even if the on-site team is’t able to give you the tour right away, at least you can get a feel for the space you’ll be in for the day.
- Be proactive in asking, “Is there anything specific that you want me to work on today?” Or, “Where can I help you most today?” Then be willing to jump into a variety of different roles throughout the day.
- Stay off your personal technology (or personal sites) while at work: This is true even if everyone else on the team is doing it. They are going to hold you to a higher standard, so it’s best if you leave the web surfing, texting, Insta-storying to your time outside of work. If you absolutely have to make a personal phone call or text, ask for your community’s policies on when and how-and be sure to follow the advice given by the PM Staffing team too.
- Pay attention to the cues: The fact is you may have been called because the property is short-staffed or has a need for extra help. This means that “chit-chat” by your temporary co-workers may be held to a minimum. If your co-workers aren’t chatty, follow their lead and keep your chatter to only the necessary stuff. If you find the on-site team is more social, then reciprocate by being more social too.
- Try NOT to identify yourself as “a temp!” Whether you’re at the property for one day or one week you are representing your property, so don’t take the mindset that you’re “just” the temp with anyone, especially prospects. If you don’t know an answer to something just say you don’t know and then try to find out. In most situations you don’t really need to explain that you’re a temp associate.
- Jump in! Your property needs your help, so please jump in where you see a need. I used to get so frustrated at associates who just sat at the desk, waiting for me to give them a complete play-by-play of what to do next. I understood that they would have questions, I’m okay with that … but be proactive.
- Know your boundaries: I once had a temporary associate tell me he didn’t like one of our processes and offered suggestions on how we could do it better. This irritated me, as I wasn’t looking for him to mentor me or to coach me! I needed him to do the job I needed him to do. So yes, while I encourage you to jump in and help, remember to take note of and honor the boundaries-even if you have a lot to share!
