Temping and job search

[SpaceMonkey]

I have just been offered a part-time temp job that has a stated duration of 3 months. I don't have much experience at all in temping and job search protocol while temping, so I'm just looking for some input. Should I feel bound to serve out the complete duration? That is, while still actively looking for full-time work (and actually had a phone interview today and there is at least one more interview coming up), should I tell prospective employers that I am free to start ASAP, or not until 3 months from now?

[SpaceMonkey]

There's not a contract or anything, I don't think. 3 months is just how long the grant funding can support a part-time assistant.

[Cole]

No. They know you're looking for full time work, and it's not like they're offering you benefits. No matter when you leave, your reason can be that it was a temporary position.

I temped in two long-term gigs while I was job hunting, and while I felt bad about leaving one three months sooner than expected, they understood that I was being offered permanent work, a salary, and benefits and there's no reason for someone not to take that.

Besides, it's not like they're signing a contract saying that no matter what happens they won't fire you or run out of funding for the next three months. Of course it's best if you can finish it, but there's nothing binding about a temp job. It's the risk they run in hiring a temp.

Edited to Add: When potential employers ask when you can start, tell them that you're currently working in a temporary position and you would like to give that job the courtesy of two weeks' notice.

When I got my job my new employer allowed me to work 50% here for the first month, so that I could give the temp job I was leaving 50% help until they found someone to replace me.