Library Journal
(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Over one-fourth of the work force is employed on a contingency basis. Yet these freelancers, consultants, part-timers, and temp workers are largely overlooked in the literature devoted to career choice and development. Smith, a freelance writer and long time temporary employee, provides facts and opinions about temping in a witty and amiable fashion. Her information and insights do much to dispel the notion that temping is a second-rate form of employment and means of career development. Smith's coverage includes pros and cons, pay and benefits, qualifications and opportunities, working with agencies, self-marketing, short- and long-term assignments, and tips on networking and negotiating. She also ventures into such topics as fun on the job, harassment, and health tips. This is a little book packed with big ideas. It's one of the first resources available on the topic and belongs in every library's career section.-- Alan Farber, Northern Illinois Univ . , DeKalb (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Book list
From Booklist, Copyright © American Library Association. Used with permission.

Job-hunting tipsters and career advisers now tout the advantages and/or necessity of temporary employment. For some, it may be a lifestyle choice offering valued flexibility; for others, a fallback for when a job search has stalled. In 1993 John Fanning, head of the highly successful Uniforce Temporary Personnel franchise, outlined the benefits of "temping" in Work Styles to Fit Your Life-Style [BKL Aug]. While Fanning's perspective was that of a temporary services entrepreneur, Smith, a veteran of more than 100 temporary positions, cites many of the same reasons for temping identified by Fanning. In her chatty, personal style, she also provides guidance on dealing and negotiating with temp agencies and offers tips for surviving the temp work culture. ~--David Rouse