Alison Hopper
This is your first experience of working through an agency on a temporary basis, how would you rate your experience of the following:
Initial registration
The initial registration was straightforward and professionally handled. After filling in the registration forms we had a discussion about my CV and the type of roles I would be keen to work in. We also spoke about what direction I would like my career to take. I came away trusting that the best care and attention would be paid to my application and that every effort would be made to ensure I would be put forward for positions best suited to my qualifications and work aspirations.
Preparation for assignment
I was provided with all the information that was required for starting my new assignment and at no point did I feel out of the loop. The whole process ran very smoothly.
Experience while on assignment
My experience on assignment has been wholly positive. Everyone at Change is very approachable and always has time to answer a question or to give advice. They really take care of you!
Payroll services
Payroll services at Change have been efficient and accurate. The times when I have had a query it has always been resolved promptly, which is very reassuring when you are being paid on weekly basis.
Why did you decide to work on temporary basis?
Having graduated from university last year I was still unsure of what I wanted to do career-wise. Working on a temporary basis seemed ideal, as it would allow me to gain a broad range of experience in different organisations whilst expanding upon my skills base. On a more personal level, it suited my circumstances as although I have a dedication to building a successful and rewarding career if the opportunity arose, for example, to go travelling I would not be letting anyone down which would have been a concern of mine had I been permanently employed.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
At Scottish Opera there is always something exciting going on. I get to meet lots of interesting and talented people both internally from within the company and coming in from outside. You really get the impression that everybody is fully invested in what they are doing and are genuinely enthused to be working there! Being the first point of contact for staff and visitors to Scottish Opera I am committed to bringing the same enthusiasm and professionalism to my role. It really is a great working environment.
What do you consider the main benefits of working on a temporary basis?
As I mentioned before, for those who are still unsure about which direction to take in their career paths, temporary working provides you with the chance to try your hand at different roles in different sectors. Also by working through an agency like Change, if you find yourself out of contract you are not alone in your job-hunt which is very encouraging when so many people are finding it a struggle to secure work. Both Lynne and Tori at Change have taken the time to build a relationship with me, it is a really personalised service; you are not just "another temp".
Has working on a temporary basis met your expectations?
Yes and no. From a logistics point of view it has whereby my contract is reviewed over short periods of time and I get paid weekly. But my expectations were exceeded by the support I have received from Change. Having heard stories from friends who had worked with other agencies I had the impression temping work was impersonalised and unsympathetic but I have felt as valued by Change as the organisations who are calling upon their services to fill short term positions.
What is important to you as a temporary worker?
Feeling a part of an organisation even though you are just on a temporary contract. This is certainly the case at Scottish Opera where everyone has been very welcoming and forthcoming.
Would you recommend temporary work/Change to others and if so why?
Absolutely. It is mutually beneficial to both you and the organisation you are working in and is a great chance to "network" and figure out what you enjoy doing. Change provides you with the contacts and the support to make the whole process