If you think, "it's just an interview for a temp job -- no 
big deal," that's where you're mistaken. Some wonderful
opportunities, networking connections and careers have resulted
from temporary positions.

Temporary assignments today run the gamut from receptionist to
CEO and beyond. And since an agency is usually the first contact
with the company, much of the marketing and negotiations have
been done for you.

And if you believe "but the interview is set up and all I have 
to do is show up," you're wrong again. The mind set you bring to 
that interview will make a big difference as to whether or not 
you get the job.

Most employers like to conduct interviews for temporary
positions, even though they are slated only for a few weeks or
months of service. They are particularly concerned about people
in positions of higher responsibility. The employer is interested
in selecting quality people who can be trusted with company
information, knowledge and secrets.


Steps to Take to Prepare For Your Interview

-- Step #1 - Do Your Research.

Many companies have Web sites where you can access valuable
background information to use in your interview.

By finding out information about the company, like annual revenue
and the organization's mission, you will show an interest in what
you will be contracted to do. Showing some enthusiasm about the
position will demonstrate a positive attitude toward the
assignment that you're seeking. You don't want to project the
idea that you are there because you can't find a job anywhere
else, or are waiting for just the right job -- even if that is
the case.


--  Step #2 - Get a Job Description.

Prepare ahead of time.

A worthwhile exercise is to take a piece of paper and fold it
down the middle. On one side of the fold write, "What they are
looking for," and on the other side, write, "What I have to
offer." Look at the job description and compare the company's
needs with your experience and qualities. How do you stack up?
Where are your shortcomings? Can you show how you learn quickly
or bring added value to the company from the start?


-- Step #3 Prepare a Short Information Statement.

Be ready to answer the dreaded question, "Tell me about yourself
and your background."

Your statement should include some information on the type of
companies and industries you have worked for, your strengths,
your transferable skills and some of your personal traits.
Practice saying this statement until it is natural.


-- Step #4 Be Prepared to Talk About Your Successes and
Experiences.

The employer will want to find out about your past experience --
successes and failures, your work ethic, your track record and,
more than likely, the reason you have chosen to work as a
temporary employee rather than a regular employee. Make sure you
have an answer to the question, "Why temporary employment?"

Even though you are not being considered for a regular position
at this time, there is always the possibility that it just might
work out well for both parties -- and the first step to making
that happen is by acing the interview. 

Carole Martin is a celebrated author, trainer, and an interview
coach. Her books, "Interview Fitness Training Workbook" and
"Boost Your Interview IQ" (McGraw Hill) have sold thousands of
copies world-wide. Receive Carole's FREE 9-week job interview
e-course by visiting  her  web site at: 
http://www.interviewcoach.com or
http://www.interviewfitnesstraining.com