Considering a temporary position but not sure if it’s for you? Here are some terrific reasons why a temporary job can be a great career move. In today’s job market, nothing is really permanent. The market has changed. Gone are the days when you could stay at a company for 40 years, secure in the notion that as long as you performed well, your job was guaranteed. The gig economy, as it is now dubbed, embraces change as the norm when it comes to employment. Change isn’t a bad thing and short-term work has many advantages over long-term employment.
Instead of thinking, “What will I do?”, think, “What will I do next?”
According to the American Staffing Association, more than three million temporary and contract employees work for America’s staffing companies during an average week.
- Nine out 10 said staffing work made them more employable.
- One-third (35%) were offered a permanent job by a client where they worked on an assignment and two-thirds (66%) of those accepted the offers of permanent employment.
- One in five cite scheduling flexibility as a key reason for choosing temporary and contract work.
- The average wage is more than $17 per hour; some make more than $100 per hour.
Below are 10 reasons temporary work could be the answer for you:
1. Temporary can become permanent.
Think of a temporary job as a stepping stone or path to a permanent role that you desire. In some cases, it may be an easier way to get your foot in the door. You can then work your magic and showcase your abilities to your employer.
2. It’s not just about the job – it’s about the connections you make there.
Your new co-workers or supervisor could become future references. Maybe one will take the time to invest in your abilities and mentor you. You never know. Keep an open mind and be open to new possibilities.
3. Working looks better than not working.
Even if the temporary job you choose is unrelated to your current field, it is better to be employed. When a new employer looks at your resume, it will see that you kept working while looking for work. This demonstrates a good work ethic and also keeps your skills fresh.
4. You can explore different careers with little risk.
Think of it as a trial period. You can try something new. You can find out what you like and don’t like. You may find something you really like that you never thought you’d enjoy at all.
5. Your level of responsibility and/or stress level may decrease.
Psychologically, knowing you are in the role only temporarily can help ease stress and responsibility levels.
6. It will keep you in the game.
If you have been unemployed for a while and it has you feeling down, taking a temporary job will help you feel more productive again.
7. You can choose a shift to fit your schedule.
Temporary can also mean flexible. You can choose a short-term or long-term temporary assignment. You can choose first shift, second shift, third shift or weekend shift. Bottom line – you’ve got options.
8. You’ve got the power – to say yes or no to job assignments that are offered. If something doesn’t fit your schedule or doesn’t sound like something you’d like, you can wait until they offer you something that’s a better fit. There is absolutely no pressure to accept an assignment.
9. Gain new skills and experiences.
Most jobs ask for experience. How do you get that experience? A temporary job could be the answer. Many provide on-the-job training and require no previous experience. Some even help you earn certifications. The skills you gain there could translate into a permanent role there or elsewhere. It’s worth a try!
10. You can receive benefits.
One of the myths of temporary employment is that you will be without benefits. At SEEK Careers/Staffing, you can qualify for some benefits after only 30 days of employment.
