What is temporary work?

Temporary work involves performing professional activities temporarily for a company through a temp agency. The duration of the assignment can range from a day to several months, or even longer. In Belgium, only licensed temp agencies can offer this type of service. Temporary work is commonly used to replace a permanent employee, respond to a temporary increase in workload, or carry out specific projects.

In summary, temporary work is a temporary job where the temp agency recruits you and sends you to work for a company for a set period. Although this period is usually limited, more and more companies offer the possibility of transitioning to a permanent contract at the end of the temp job, provided the performance is satisfactory.

Main characteristics of temporary work:

• It’s a temporary job.
• It’s a legal way to provide workers to companies.
• Only licensed temp agencies can operate in Belgium.

The players in temporary work:

Temporary work involves three parties:

1. The temp agency: It recruits and sends you to a company for a temporary assignment.
2. You, the temp worker: You sign a contract with the temp agency and perform your assignment at another company.
3. The client company: It calls on the temp agency to temporarily hire a worker to meet a specific need.

Situations where temporary work is allowed:

The law regulates the use of temporary work and specifies when it is permitted:

• Replacement of a permanent employee: When a permanent employee is absent.
• Temporary increase in workload: For example, during peak periods.
• Exceptional work: For tasks that are out of the ordinary (e.g., fairs, moving).
• Inbound flow: A company can hire a temp worker for a vacant position with the intention of hiring them permanently after an evaluation period. For example, a construction company hires a temp for a specific project with the possibility of keeping them long-term.
• Artistic missions: For example, for shows or one-time events, like actors or technicians for a theater production.
• Employment programs for long-term unemployed people: As part of programs aimed at helping long-term unemployed individuals gain professional experience through temp assignments to increase their chances of securing stable employment.

What can you do as a temp worker?

Temporary work offers a wide variety of opportunities, allowing you to explore different sectors and develop new skills. In collaboration with your temp consultant, you can find assignments that match your expectations and career aspirations. If necessary, the consultant can even offer training to improve your skills and facilitate your integration into the labor market, a service you can find through platforms like Travi.