Even after successfully passing the selection process, the daily routine of a new job can differ significantly from what was presented in the advertisement or discussed during the interview. According to research by “Workis,” 16% of lower-skilled workers stated that only half of the tasks they actually performed matched what was discussed during the job interview. Salary, schedule, and main responsibilities can be discussed before employment, but the work pace, task organization, and team relationships usually become clear only after starting the job.
Read more Hybrids that do not need to be charged: who are they useful for?
According to Agnė Petrėnaitė, product manager at the temporary work platform “Workis,” one way to reduce the risk of a wrong choice is to first try a specific position through temporary shifts. This way, a person gets a close look not only at the tasks themselves but also at the work rhythm of the specific sector, the manager’s communication style, team relationships, and company culture.
“The attitude towards career is also changing. People are increasingly looking not just for a job but for an environment where they truly want to stay. Therefore, what is said during the selection process is no longer enough for them; it is important to see for themselves what daily work looks like,” says A. Petrėnaitė.
According to the expert, temporary shifts are especially useful for students and young people just starting their professional path, as well as those considering changing their field of activity or returning to the labor market after a longer break. For some, it becomes an opportunity to gain first practical experience; for others, to try a new direction without leaving their current job and without taking on long-term commitments.
“Having tried several positions, a person gets to know not only different professions but also themselves better. They see which tasks they are good at, what work pace is acceptable, and in what environment they feel best. Even the realization that the chosen field is not suitable is useful – it allows timely change of direction and avoids an ill-considered career decision,” explains the “Workis” product manager.
A. Petrėnaitė notes that usually 3–5 shifts are enough to form a clearer picture of the position. “By that time, the excitement of the first day subsides, daily responsibilities become clearer, and it becomes evident how well the person fits into the team. They can already assess whether they want to work in this position longer, so the decision is made based on real experience, not guesswork,” says the expert.
According to A. Petrėnaitė, this model usually works well in trade, logistics, manufacturing, customer service, and catering sectors. In these areas, the nature of the work, pace, and communication with colleagues become apparent quite quickly.
Read more Analysts revealed what has recently driven inflation
Temporary shifts help discover future employees
This model is also beneficial for employers. According to A. Petrėnaitė, a person who has already tried the position makes a decision about permanent employment with a better understanding of the tasks, work pace, and environment awaiting them. Therefore, the likelihood that they will decide to leave after a few days or weeks decreases, and the company will not have to organize the selection process again. This helps create a more stable team and saves resources allocated for employee search.
“In practice, it quickly becomes clear how a person adapts to the workload, learns new skills, communicates with colleagues, accepts feedback, and handles daily situations. Thus, the candidate is evaluated based on actual work performed, not just the impression formed during the selection,” says the “Workis” product manager.
According to A. Petrėnaitė, a temporary employee who performs tasks well, shows motivation, and quickly integrates into the team can become a candidate for a permanent position. When such a position arises, the employer already knows how the person works, and the person is familiar with the company’s rules and expectations.
However, the expert emphasizes that for short-term cooperation to truly become a path to a permanent position, simply inviting a person to a shift is not enough. “Smooth introduction to the work, clear instructions, and feedback help them engage faster and perform tasks better. At the same time, the employer can more accurately see the person’s potential and assess whether it is worth cooperating with them longer,” explains A. Petrėnaitė.
According to the expert, a good employee experience is important even when the company cannot offer a permanent position at that time. A properly welcomed person is more likely to return when a new need arises or recommend the employer to others.
Read more Media: Iranian Revolutionary Guard stops 3 oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz
