Temporary Jobs Lead To Full Time

             A situation often faced by recently laid off employees and even sometimes former students is whether to take a temporary position or to continue looking for a full time job. The answer lies in the circumstances of the job seeker including the chances of finding employment in a reasonable period of time, available financial resources, dependence of family members on income and benefits or the desire to make a career change.

            Some job seekers believe settling for a temporary position might hinder their chances of finding a full time position. Others believe a temporary job will assist in obtaining a permanent job.

            The truth is that a carefully chosen temporary position can lead to a full time opportunities and may make a career change possible without having to go back to school for extensive training.

            If you are in a similar situation, what factors should you look at before making a decision either way?

            The first thing you should consider is how bad you need an immediate income. If you are the sole breadwinner in the household and you do not have enough money coming in to pay the rent or mortgage, the car payment and put food on the table - the answer is simple. Take the temporary job and continue looking for a full time job.

            A factor you should always consider is the amount of money and the length of time you will receive in unemployment benefits. Use the benefits to your advantage. In many cases, having temporary employment is better than receiving a check for not working.

            If your employer has provided you with a great severance package that takes care of your needs for an extended period of time or you can live on weekly unemployment checks, you may have the luxury of taking your time. But don’ t wait until the money is almost gone before taking another job. The economy might be strong, but if you wait to long you may not be able to obtain a position to prevent a financial crisis.

            A temporary position can open up new opportunities. Some employers have diverse and extensive employment needs. The right employer can offer potentials you never imagined.

            Is the available temporary position you are considering in your field or with an employer that you would like to work for? If not, take a close look at the employment situation in the community. If there are other full time or temporary positions around or possibly coming available, maybe you should pass until the right opportunity presents itself. However, if things are really tight in your field or where you live, the best move might be to take the job and hope things improve later.

            Significant numbers of temporary employees are offered full time positions, according to staffing firms. Many others have received further temporary assignments.

            Employers tend to hire people they know are performing at least an adequate job. This reduces the risk on hiring managers of making a mistake of hiring someone that cannot do the job or get along with others in the work environment. It also saves money for the employer since recruiting is expensive.

            So if you are in a situation, take a look at all your options. A temporary job may provide an income to take the pressure off you while you look for another job. It might even lead to a full time opportunity you really want. And remember that many temporary positions are never advertised. Some staffing firms may have jobs available to fit your profile.