When you're looking for full-time work, it can be tempting to jump into a temp job to pay the bills and keep you connected. Before you make the decision, consider how temporary work will affect your job search. By analyzing your situation in advance, you can avoid taking a step that will compromise your overall career goals.
For many job seekers, money is the prime motivating factor. Searching for jobs can be a time-consuming process, and many people simply don't have the savings to carry them through a months-long job search. If you're worried about how you are going to pay the bills, a temp job may be a necessity. Though it will take up some of the time you could spend searching, it will give you the ability to be more selective instead of choosing the first job that comes along.
Looking for work can be a full-time job all on its own; if you're balancing the search with a temp job, one or the other may end up suffering. While you're at your desk, you may be tempted to bring up job sites, which never sits well with a boss. The schedule can also hinder your ability to head out for interviews. This is particularly true when you're searching for jobs in other states, as interviews may require multi-day trips out of town. If your bank balance can stand it, it may be best to avoid temporary work for as long as possible.
On the flip side, a temp job can often lead to full-time employment. According to Forbes magazine, many companies hire temporary employees to try them out before offering full-time employment. By seeing how you perform in the company environment, as opposed to an interview, supervisors can hire you with greater confidence. This is particularly important when times are tough because employers are looking to reduce turnover among permanent employees and cut down on training costs.
If you are planning to turn your temp job into a full-time position, the first challenge is finding the right position in the right company. Find a business that you would like to work with, and then check their policies regarding transitioning temporary workers into permanent positions. Consider the type of temporary position that is on offer. Will it expose you to the right people? Will you have a chance to prove yourself in a capacity that is close to your target job? If you're working in the mailroom, chances are that you won't be visible to the people in the marketing department. By choosing carefully, however, a temporary job can be a way to prove yourself to supervisors and secure a full-time job.
The choice to take or refuse a temp job is entirely dependent on your individual situation. By carefully considering all of the factors, you'll be able to make the decision that puts you in the best position for ideal career development.
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