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Hired for a Temporary Position
How would you deal with a temporary work position? Would you feel confident that it may lead to something more permanent or would you start getting your resume ready for a different job? What do you do when their is no guarentee?
Sara BrunoPassion for helping others grow in their career!
39
05/31/20 at 5:06PM UTC
The value of a temporary position is what you make of it!
For me personally, the last two companies I started at - I started with a temporary 3 month contract. One of those opportunities, I ended up working there for 4 years and grew like crazy in my career! The other, I have now been at for a year.
Obviously, being employed past your original contract has some factors outside of your control. I'd suggest really focusing on maintaining a stellar performance and constantly produce value for the company. At the same time, also apply to other opportunities. Take advantage of your time with the temp position, gain as much as experience as you can that you can add to your skill set and resume - anything that will help you succeed in the future of your career.
If for whatever reason, you don't continue with that company after your contract - don't let that get you down. See the value in the experience. The lessons you've learned, the people you've met, etc. Maybe the value you gain is realizing that this was not the right position or company for you. There is always something to gain.. A temporary position may seem nerve-wracking. But, it is ultimately what you make of it!
Anonymous for a day
449
05/20/20 at 12:01AM UTC
Keep looking. Sometimes a temporary job can turn into a permanent opportunity but I've found that's the exception, not the rule. I spent over 3 years at a company trying to get hired permanently and finally gave up when I found out most jobs were only posted internally and filled internally. My first red flag should have been when they put an internal candidate from IT in the marketing job I applied for.
A temp-to-perm position might have more promise but I would get guidelines of how long you're expected to be a temp and as you approach that deadline, ask if it's going to happen. If there's any ambivalence, start sending out resumes.
Kathleen BodiInformation Security Specialist | GRC
33
05/19/20 at 1:06PM UTC
After I graduated with my Bachelor's degree, I hadn't found more than a temporary Christmas Holidays job so I applied for a one-year contract position for the same work I had done before college. About 6-months into that project, I began on an online Master's program. Three months later, I applied for two different permanent positions that required my educational background. I've now been in one of those positions for just short of a year.
Finding a temporary job can lead to a permanent position with the company if you approach it strategically. It can also be a great way to learn that a company or job won't be a good fit for you.
Paulla FetzekTeacher, Lighting Expert, & Office Professional
1.73k
05/18/20 at 11:28PM UTC
My first-ever full-time job (and my most favorite confess) started as a temporary holiday position. I wanted to get into the workforce (I was just 21) and was willing to take whatever was needed to get my the proverbial "Foot in the door".
I worked at that job for 9 years. I would still be there, but sadly the company folded. I've taken temp positions off/on as I was looking for other work - and had some horrible experiences (telemarketing - UGH not for me) and some oddly fun ones (a call center for ROGAINE!).
Each of these, however, has given me skills, or knowledge, that I've taken on to whatever new job I've had.
All the best...
Laney BalisREALTOR® @ Align Right Realty Riverview
347
05/18/20 at 6:12PM UTC
Hi Destiny - Were you placed through an agency? If so, did the person that placed you indicate there is a possibility for a permanent position or is this one covering for someone on leave? I can say I have been in both situations - covering for someone and brought in for long-term. I have been hired permanently in both scenarios. I suggest reaching out to whoever placed/hired you and ask the question - something along the lines "do you know the length of the assignment?" If they ask why I would be honest, I am looking to prepare myself for when it is over to continue to move forward whether with this company or another - of course in your own words. This way they understand you are open to possibilities.
PS...always keep your resume ready to go, you never know when something amazing will pop up. :)
[email protected]
155
05/18/20 at 2:22PM UTC
All of above are valid. I recently had a temp on board with us for 6 months. Her position got eliminated last October, but I was so impressed with her skills and work ethic, that i contacted her as soon as we had a FT opening this year.
She was interested, and we filled the position 1 week from posting.
I'd take the temp, work like heck, and network even more. You never know where that next opp will arise, and a bird in the hand is worth 10 in the bush, to put it mildly!
Jessica HallProduct Owner | Agilist | Dog Mom
78
05/18/20 at 2:12PM UTC
Hope for the best and prepare for the worst. If you accept a temporary job, I would continue to network/job search for the next opportunity. I've always been reluctant to consider a temporary job - when I am currently employed with a permanent one. I'd be more open to the temporary job if I'm unemployed or the circumstances around my job search mean that the risk of a temp job is worth the benefit (i.e. getting out of a toxic work situation).
Joanna Poe
1.53k
05/18/20 at 1:59PM UTC
I certainly wouldn't leave a permanent position for a temporary one, especially now, but I'd treat it like an opening for a long-term position while keeping the feelers out and the resume up-to-date. They have not guaranteed you anything past a certain timeframe, so they cannot be at all hurt if you are still looking.
In my current situation, laid off thanks to the collapse of my industry (travel) due to covid-19, I jumped at the first temporary position I was offered, but I'm still looking for something more concrete.
Anne BarnwellResumes that get results
791
05/18/20 at 1:26PM UTC
I would approach a temp job with the mentality that you're going to do your best work, because you don't know where it could lead to--a full time position, a connection to another position, or a great recommendation.
With that in mind, you should always keep your resume updated. That is the same whether you're in a temp position or a permanent position. It's the best way to truly capture the skills you've gained.
One bonus, because it is temporary, you don't need to hide an active job search. You can openly ask people about opportunities, post on LinkedIn, etc.
Good luck!
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