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For the past decade I have been running an art business and teaching PT, but want to transition back to FT graphic/visual design (10+ years experience) .
I'm 59, and have a lot of PT work in my history due to caregiving responsibilities. I am spending a lot of time refreshing my tech skills and applying for FT positions. Is it true I should focus on freelance/contract work to be more marketable as a full time candidate? Trying to figure out where to focus my energies now.
Crystal Miller O'Brien
47
02/10/22 at 2:47PM UTC
I think that you should be open to contract positions, but go for what you want. If you want a full time role, say that in your cover letter and apply to full time roles. If someone would rather hire you in a contract role, instead, weigh the pros and cons. One pro could be: you will see what life is like dedicating a full day’s work for one employer’s needs. This is a substantial commitment if you haven’t been working full time for others in a while. But having greater pay, security of employment for the contract period and avoiding some of the politics of working for an employer with limited permanent positions may allow you to boost your resume with great experience.
One con, however, of working as a contract employee? Not being treated to/with the full scale of a permanent employee. You may not be introduced to the company with all the fanfare and swag offered to new employees with similar or less credentials.. You may receive a lukewarm reception by managers and employees because you are a temporary worker. You may also be exposed to unanticipated competition from other contract workers that typically goes unchecked or supervised. And then you might be separated from future opportunities and privileges simply because you are a contract worker.
Do your research. See who is writing negative reviews about potential employers and weigh what you read/hear carefully. Some will complain and not account for their own actions. But when you read lots of the same work culture complaints…they all can’t be wrong and spiteful. Hopefully, this is helpful. Wishing you much luck!
ClareDesigner in Washington DC
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02/17/22 at 2:39PM UTC
Thank you for the valuable tips!
Priya KeefeSays "yes" to challenges. Collaborator. Leader.
76
02/06/22 at 6:48PM UTC
I also would like to know the answer to these questions. I have been teaching for seven years, but want to transition back to technical writing. Freelance/contract work has helped me get a foot in the door when I was younger, but it feels risky now.
Anonymous
01/28/22 at 6:09PM UTC
Hi - although companies are supposed to understand caregiving time off, as I currently look for work I find many companies do not. Make sure you have updated skills and look for freelance to permanent positions. Sometimes these are best found through temp agencies. Once you have about a year of solid freelance work, it may be easier to get into a FT job. Good luck!
