4 Ways Temporary Work Can Kickstart Your Career

Whether you’re a college graduate, changing careers or seeking more flexibility and variety in your work, temporary opportunities can offer a ton of benefits.  

We know that plenty of companies employ temporary workers as a way to extend the interview process and better assess a candidate’s performance on the job. By hiring a worker on a temporary basis, employers are able to evaluate your cultural compatibility and get a better understanding of how your individual strengths contribute to the team’s success. These areas are often hard for an employer to gauge solely from your interview. 

While there are never guarantees in life, many temporary roles wind up converting to full-time, permanent positions. In fact, the American Staffing Association found that one-third of temporary and contract employees were extended a permanent job offer, and of those individuals, two-thirds accepted the offer. 

With all that in mind, here are four ways a temporary job can kickstart your career. 

1. It’s a chance to diversify your experience.

Temporary opportunities are ideal for workers who are interested in broadening their skills. As you navigate from role to role, you’ll gain exposure to new workflows, technology and challenges that’ll help strengthen your marketability as a candidate.

2. It’s an opportunity to get your foot in the door

A hiring manager may recognize the need to add staff, but can’t always make his or her case to increase headcount. Thus, hiring someone on a temporary basis is a way for these individuals to demonstrate the positive impact added bodies can have on the business and secure funding from the powers-that-be to extend permanent job offers.

3. It’s a way to expand your professional network

The bonds you form while working alongside co-workers can be invaluable. Not only can these folks vouch for your achievements, skills and strengths in the workplace, but they can also act as a referral source for new employment opportunities.  

4. It can be a transition to a new career path

Many people decide to make contract work a permanent career choice because they want more control over their work schedule, find enjoyment in the freedom of exploring different work environments and projects, and like engaging with multiple employers. Temporary work can be a great way to test the waters in a variety of fields.