5 reasons to get temping this summer
5 min read | Roddy Adair | Article | | Job searching

Professionals across Ireland are turning to temporary and contract roles – and not just as a stopgap, but as a smart, strategic move. According to our 2025 Ireland Salary & Recruiting Trends guide, 42% of respondents working as contractors began their freelance careers in the last 12 months, showing that flexible work is becoming a first-choice option for many. And summer may be your best chance to catch the temp wave.
While the Irish summer isn’t best known for soaring temperatures, you can count on rising temp opportunities. For professionals in between permanent roles, exploring new sectors, or simply seeking greater flexibility, here’s why temping could help you stay ahead this season.
1. Fast-track your way into work
Summer is peak season for temporary hiring. It’s a time when many organisations are ramping up projects, covering annual leave, or trialling new initiatives, creating a surge in demand for skilled professionals like you who can step in and deliver results.
Many of these opportunities are project-based, giving you the chance to immediately make a real impact, with real earning potential. Whether you're saving for a summer trip, topping up your income, or just want to keep the cash flowing between permanent roles, temping is a great way to stay financially active.
2. Sharpen skills that employers want
Temporary roles can offer valuable experience, with exposure to in-demand systems and workflows, or high-profile projects and campaigns. Whether you're getting hands-on with AI-powered productivity tools or cutting your teeth on the latest analytics software, flexible work can keep your CV sharp in today’s fast-evolving job market.
It’s not just technical skills up for grabs either. You’ll also impress employers with the desirable soft skills you’ve developed, with the varied nature of temp and contract work being a great way to prove your adaptability and willingness to learn.
3. Your summer, your schedule
Looking to chase the sun or plan spontaneous getaways? Temping gives you the flexibility to shape your schedule around your summer plans. From short-term contracts and part-time gigs to hybrid options that let you work from practically anywhere, there’s a wide range of temp roles designed to keep your summer stress-free and full of possibilities.
4. Explore new networking horizons
Every interim role is more than just a job – it’s a chance to expand your professional circle. Each assignment introduces you to new colleagues, managers, and decision-makers who could play a key role in your future career. And in Ireland’s close-knit professional landscape, these connections can go a long way. A short-term summer contract might lead to glowing references, repeat contracts, or even a permanent offer down the line.
5. Test-drive a new career path
Thinking of switching industries or returning to work after a break? Temping is a great way to explore new sectors and roles without committing to a full-time position. Some employers even use summer contracts as a trial period for future hires, meaning your temporary role could turn into a permanent one before the sun sets on summer.
Summer temping sounding tempting?
With a wide range of temp and contract roles available across Ireland, now is the perfect time to explore what flexible work can offer. Whether you're looking to gain valuable experience, earn some extra income, or pivot your career, we’re here to help you find the hottest temp roles and make the most of the season – even if the sun’s still working part-time.
Explore our latest temp roles today, or find your next contractor position
About this author
Roddy Adair, National Specialist Director (Temporary & Interim appointments) UK & Ireland at Hays
Roddy joined Hays in 1999 as a Recruitment Consultant. In 2012 he took over operational responsibility for Hays in Scotland, managing dedicated teams providing expert temporary and permanent recruitment services for a wide range of sectors and professions. From 2018, he has been the lead for temporary and interim appointments, providing strategic leadership to the UK & Ireland business.