America’s staffing companies hire more than 14 million temporary and contract employees in a year, according to Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA).
Temporary positions are becoming increasingly common. They are available in nearly all industries and positions. They can be full-time or part-time. They may need you for a day, or several years.
Temporary positions can sometimes have a negative connotation. However, they have many benefits you may want to consider:
Flexible schedule
Many positions are second or third shift (first shift if available, too!). Staffing agencies offer assignments with a variety of work schedules, from a few hours to full time to overtime. In households with children with limited child care, it may be a wonderful opportunity to earn supplemental income.
Opportunity to explore new options
Many people trying a new position enjoy the flexibility of a temporary job. If you are thinking of exploring a new career path, a temporary position can give you the hands-on experience to help you make the decision with confidence. They are able to work a position for a period of time and then have the flexibility to try a new position, industry or company without the commitment of a direct hire position.
Confidence boost
If you find yourself unemployed for an extended period of time and are feeling down or having financial issues, accepting a temporary position may give you the boost you need. The position may provide structure and meaning to reenergize your career.
Learn new skills
Exploring a temporary position may provide you with the opportunity to learn new skills, gain new experience, or acquire knowledge and stay up to date with current trends. These new skills and experience help build your resume. It may be a lot easier to explain why you held a temporary job than why you have long gaps of unemployment.
It’s a paycheck
Let’s face it–it can be challenging to find a job. Sometimes you need a job, whether it is temporary or permanent. We all count on that paycheck. If you are unable to find a permanent job, you may accept a temporary job to allow yourself time to figure out what action you want to take.
Broaden your professional network
Meeting new people in your industry is never a bad thing. Even if you aren’t offered a full time position at the company, if you do your best work, you may meet someone, who knows someone, who can offer you a full-time position.
Could lead to full-time work
Moving from temporary to full-time status is common. Working as a temp can give both parties time to evaluate and see if they are a good fit.
Less stress
A temporary position may provide the opportunity to gain money and experience without having to invest in long-term success of a position or company. Of course, if you would like the possibility of a long-term position with the company, it’s important to put in the effort. But if it’s clear it’s a seasonal job, just do your best at work but there’s likely no need to stress after work. It may leave you with more of a work/life balance and time to focus on education or other interests.
Before making any decision, it’s important to research the staffing company and the hiring company to gather as much information as you can. It may be helpful to write down the pros and cons of accepting a position.
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