The art of temping

Dress appropriately
While most offices are now business casual, it's better to be overdressed than underdressed – you'll look more professional and so will your agency.

Take notes
In addition to being prompt, carry a notebook and pen for creating "cheat" sheets and notes. These scribbles can prove invaluable when being bombarded by dozens of phone calls and couriers. Additionally, you may want to keep your notes in the likely event that you are placed at the same company again. You'll be able to wow them when, two months down the road, you recall that the CEO prefers herbal tea to coffee.

Be a help, not a hindrance
Always pay attention and be proactive. As a temp you're expected to fulfill a role and provide support, not create more work and confusion. However, don't be afraid to ask questions or request help.

Avoid office politics. If an employee approaches you and begins to complain or vent, resist the urge to participate. Simply go in, smile and do your job.

Use temping as a stepping stone
Temping is a fantastic way to test drive various industries, companies and corporate cultures -- a critical perk if you're fresh out of school or looking for a change.

While the pay is typically on the lower end of the scale ($10 to $15/hour), the networking potential is invaluable and you may gain access to internal job postings. If you are looking for something more permanent, it can be a conduit to a contract or full-time gig. Plus, the possibility of "owning" your own work schedule is perfect for people who desire flexibility.

So go forth and temp – you never know where you may wind up as a result.