Temporary or contract work can sometimes be seen as less desirable than permanent, full-time positions, however, these roles can often be a strategic step in advancing your career. One way for job seekers to get their foot in the door at a new company is by seeing if there is any temporary or contract work available. For others, temporary or contract work can offer a real-life glimpse into other roles or positions you may be considering as well as helping you expand your network and gain valuable work experience. In today’s blog, we’ll discuss the advantages of temporary and contract work and how to use those roles to land a full-time position.
Prove Your Worth
It can be helpful to approach your contract position as an audition and an opportunity to prove to the company you would make for a good, permanent employee. Think about ways you can go “above and beyond” to make yourself indispensable. In an article on Monster they write, “If your workload slows down and you find yourself with some extra time, volunteer to help in jump in on other assignments. It gives you an opportunity to showcase skills you may not have the opportunity to use otherwise. Also, demonstrate your desire to learn and develop your skill set by taking advantage of training opportunities offered by your employer.”
Network and Build Strong Relationships
Get to know and ideally build strong business relationships with the team you are supporting, individuals in other departments, and leadership if possible. While it can sometimes feel isolating being a contractor, see about joining team social events and being an active part of the company culture. These relationships not only will help your prospects of obtaining a permanent position, but if things don’t work out at the company, through the relationships you’ve fostered, you may learn of other opportunities at outside organizations that may be a better fit.
Ask for Feedback Along the Way
Requesting feedback will help improve your work and will also demonstrate your commitment to the role and company. In an article on Dice, they write, “Asking for feedback from your manager over the course of an assignment can help you assess your chances of transitioning, and may provide the proper forum for expressing your interest in joining the company. Remember that being too pushy or issuing ultimatums about employment may result in an early exit, especially if the company just isn’t that into you (no, it won’t matter that companies really need the talent; they reason that they’ll eventually find someone else). Try a more diplomatic approach, as any permanent relationship depends on mutual interest. And do your best to negotiate from a position of strength whenever you can; scoring some wins, and demonstrating your value, will compel a manager to sit down and negotiate.”
Be Honest about Your Interests
If you are interested in joining the company on a full-time basis, say so! After you’ve demonstrated your abilities and immersed yourself in the company culture, express your desire to transition to a permanent employee. When preparing for this discussion with the manager currently overseeing you, have your talking points about why you believe you’d be a good fit for the company and everything you have to bring to the table.