Searching for a new job is no easy task. There is a lot of information out there to consider. You need to be paid fair wages, work in a position you enjoy, and have the right job terms. Temporary or contract jobs may seem to be more attractive than more traditional roles. If you are considering a temporary job over a permanent one, here is how to tell what the best choice is for you and your career.
Temp-to-Hire vs. Direct-Hire Placement
When you are considering what your next career move is going to be, you need to think everything through. Choosing a temporary position or temp-to-hire job can be beneficial for your career. It can provide you with additional experience and even help you discover something you love.
On top of that, temporary positions are increasing in popularity among employers. Companies are utilizing the help of contract or temp workers to address skills gaps in their teams. In some cases, this leads to a full-time direct-hire opportunity. However, it gives both the employer and the employee a chance to get to know each other before making a commitment.
More than this, temporary positions and temp-to-hire work can help you further your career. Below are several advantages taking a temp position can lend you.
Benefits Of Taking a Temp-to-Hire Placement
A Change of Pace Can Be Good
Taking on a temporary or temp-to-hire position can provide you with a psychological boost of sorts. You might be learning new skills. At the very least, you are interacting with other people in your field. If you have been out of work for any period of time, this change of pace can make a huge difference in your overall mood.
You’ll Make Money Either Way
Temp job or not, you’ll be making money. Oftentimes, contract positions are paid more hourly to cover the fact that they aren’t offered benefits most of the time. Even if the position is only slotted to last a few months, you’ll be earning money that entire time. Earning some kind of salary is generally better than collecting unemployment. It will also give you some experience to fill in your resume.
Fill in Employment Gaps
Speaking of your resume, taking a temp-to-hire or temporary role can help you fill in gaps in employment. Employers will typically avoid candidates with obvious gaps in their work history. Even if the temp job isn’t directly related to your industry or chosen profession, it helps ensure there is continuous employment on your CV. It can also help show employers that you are motivated to work.
You’re Constantly Gaining Experience
Many employers hire temporary workers to address immediate needs for projects. They use temp employees rather than direct-hires to keep the overhead low. That being said, you can find temporary work in your profession that can help you further your career. Your work experience on a short-term project may help you land a full-time job in the future.
Expand Your Professional Network
Temporary jobs will help you build your professional network. You will meet people who can make a lasting impression on your career. Even if you don’t continue working there, these people can serve as future references.
Sample New Jobs and Industries
If you aren’t sure about what direction you want to take your career, temporary work gives you the chance to sample new jobs and industries. For example, if you are a bookkeeper, you can work in different accounting departments in practically any industry. Maybe you have always been interested in working in the travel industry. You can look for a temporary job bookkeeping in that industry to see if it is something you like.
Get to Know a Specific Employer
The job isn’t the only thing you get to test out. You get to know the employer and the company culture as well. Many professionals cite work culture as one of the reasons they leave a position. Taking a temporary or temp-to-hire job gives you time to get to know what it is like to work there. If you are interested in working for a specific company, temp work allows you to get your foot in the door and wait for something more permanent to open up.
Maintain Your Current Knowledge
At the very least, taking on a temp job can help you maintain your current skills and knowledge. If you have been out of work or were just laid off, a temp job can help you remain relevant in your field. This helps ensure that your skills don’t get outdated while you search for a more permanent job.
Ready to Find the Perfect Placement
The team of professionals at Burnett Specialists can assist you with your job search. Our recruiters will get to know you and your long-term career goals. Then we can help map out a career path and potential jobs to help you get there. Whether you are looking for temp-to-hire or direct-hire placement, we’re here to help. Learn more about the opportunities available to you when working with Burnett Specialists.
