Temporary work doesn’t have to stay temporary. In fact, you can turn your temporary position into a permanent one if you do it right.
For most of the year, many manufacturing companies rely on permanent employees to maintain consistent operations. However, temp workers are often necessary as jobs are seasonal depending on the specific sector. These seasonal spikes are typically driven by consumer demand—especially during holidays or peak shopping periods.
For temporary employees, it’s a valuable window to prove your worth and earn a permanent spot. Read on to know more about how to transition from a temporary to full-time position.
9 Practical Steps to Turn a Temporary Job into Full-Time Employment
Jumping from numerous temp jobs to a permanent role can be challenging. But with the right practice and mindset, you can find stable job opportunities. Here’s how:
1. Set clear long-term goals.
From day one, set your mind to working full-time. You might be working temporarily today, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. Instead, focus on your goal of landing a long-term role and let others know it.
For example, when applying for jobs, let your employers know your intention. Temporary work is a great way to start employment, and it can open many possibilities. If you can display your dedication and skill, you may gain an edge among other workers.
- Ask your supervisors what qualities they are looking for in a full-time employee.
- Align your perspective and actions to your goals.
- Set a timeline for your goals and be gracious with your experiences.
2. Become someone employers can’t lose.
There are many skilled temporary workers in the industry besides you. So, ask yourself, what makes you unique? Are you reliable? Do you show up on time? Are you willing to commit to and sharpen your craft?
Employers value employees who go above and beyond. It shows dedication and commitment—both valuable traits for companies.
- Volunteer for extra tasks.
- Improve yourself or the processes you handle.
- Make thoughtful and useful recommendations.
- Support your coworkers and their needs.
- Offer assistance whenever possible.
Read more: The Industrial Skills Employers Are Desperate for in 2025
3. Understand beyond your job description.
This doesn’t mean doing someone else’s job—it means showing interest in how things work across the team. Ask to shadow coworkers, offer help when appropriate, and take initiative to learn different tasks or operate new machinery. Attend available trainings. This shows versatility and a genuine willingness to grow.
Apart from impressing those around you, you also help yourself learn new skills. Even without the guarantee of a permanent job, you’ve already become a more valuable employee, no matter where you go in the future.
4. Build relationships with your supervisors and peers.
You’ll be interacting with your workmates most of the time, so it’s best to stay on good terms with them. While this is not technically a job search, building connections can help others recommend you for positions or mention open roles when available.
Even if you’re no longer working with a certain company, good relationships can lead to future opportunities. Make sure to ask for their feedback and apply it to how you work. This shows you’re willing to improve your skills and are ready to take on new roles.
5. Document your achievements.
It’s easy to get caught up in daily tasks and overlook how much you’ve accomplished. But tracking your wins not only helps you build a strong resume—it also keeps you focused on your growth. Have you helped increase output? Improved quality or efficiency?
Whenever possible, back up your achievements with numbers. Quantifying results makes your impact clear and more compelling to future employers.
6. Show commitment to your company.
Aiming for a permanent position should align with how committed you are to the company. When you show dedication, interest, and enthusiasm, it becomes easier for employers to consider your long-term employment.
Here are a few ways you can do this:
- Be flexible with shifts and overtime.
- Express interest in future projects.
- Show up and contribute in meetings.
- Join training sessions and learn new skills.
Read more: Avoiding Burnout: 5 Tips for Staying Energized and Productive in Physically Demanding Jobs
7. Ask about the temp-to-perm timeline.
If you don’t speak up, your managers may not realize you’re aiming for a permanent role. Take the initiative—let them know you’re committed to growing with the company and becoming a full-time team member. Highlight your accomplishments, skills, and the value you bring to the team.
Performance reviews are a great time to bring this up, especially if you’re already getting strong feedback. Ask what the timeline looks like for converting temps to permanent roles so you can manage your expectations. Even if there aren’t openings right now, express your interest and ask who to stay in touch with—whether it’s a manager or someone from HR.
8. Leverage the support of a staffing firm.
Staffing agencies like Horizon America specialize in placing job applicants in their desired positions. They work with employers and act as a bridge to respond to the needs of both employers and employees.
With their wide network of connections, they can help you find suitable employers looking for temp-to-perm applicants. If you’re lucky, you might even land permanent roles on your first search.
Apart from this, many agencies provide continuous support to employees. They offer knowledge, resume assistance, interview tips, and employment best practices, which can increase your chances of becoming a valuable employee.
9. Stay professional even if the role ends.
Not all temporary employees aspiring to become permanent can transition to full-time—and that’s okay. However, your exit matters just as much as how you started your job. So, always leave a good impression by completing your tasks responsibly, helping with the transition, and showing gratitude to your supervisors for the opportunity.
Many employers keep a list of reliable temps they’d rehire or refer. Staying professional will help increase your chances of being called back for the same position—and maybe even recommended for full-time work.
Final Tip: Know the Industry’s Seasonality and Timing
In manufacturing and light industrial sectors, hiring patterns are often shaped by consumer demand—but not always. For example, packaging and warehousing typically ramp up recruitment ahead of Q4 to meet holiday-driven retail needs. In contrast, industries like agriculture depend more on planting and harvest cycles than on market fluctuations.
Each sector follows its own calendar, bringing unique challenges and operational rhythms. Understanding these seasonal trends gives you a strategic edge over others who may only react once job openings appear. It allows you to prepare your resume, credentials, and mindset in advance—so when opportunities arise, you’re ready to act quickly.
Rather than viewing these busy seasons as just high-demand periods, see them as your moment to lean in. Demonstrating awareness of industry timing shows you’re in tune with how the business operates. Employers take note of temp workers who are dependable, eager to take extra shifts, and ready to grow—qualities that can set you apart when permanent roles become available.
Are you looking for temp-to-perm positions? Horizon America can help!
Here at Horizon America, we don’t just place candidates in any company. We help look for the best opportunity that fits your needs. This includes the company culture, employment arrangement, job fit, and growth opportunities you prefer—whether you’re looking for a temporary, temp-to-perm, or even permanent position.
Send us your resume and we’ll help you along the way!
