Bridge the Gap: 5 Ways Temp Jobs Can Revitalize Your Career

Last Updated on April 11, 2024

Job loss is inherently stressful, whether due to layoffs, resignation, or the ongoing search for new employment, which can become exceedingly disheartening. If you’re concerned that gaps in your resume might deter potential employers, consider securing a temporary job to fill the void. Here are five reasons why having a temp job can be beneficial during a lapse in employment:

• Immediate Income: Temp jobs provide immediate income, which is crucial during unemployment. They help cover everyday expenses and reduce financial stress while you search for a permanent role.
• Skills Development: Temporary positions are excellent for learning new skills or sharpening existing ones, particularly in different industries or roles than previously experienced, thus enhancing your resume.
• Workplace Flexibility: Temp jobs often offer flexible working hours that can accommodate your lifestyle or allow you to pursue other interests and commitments simultaneously.
• Networking Opportunities: Working in temporary roles exposes you to new professional networks, providing you with connections that could lead to permanent employment opportunities.
• Bridge to Permanent Employment: Many employers offer permanent positions to temp workers who have proven their competence and fit within the company culture.
• Reduced Employment Gaps: Temp jobs fill the employment gaps in your resume, making you a more attractive candidate to prospective employers as they can see continuous professional activity.
• Company Insight: Temping allows you to experience a company’s culture and operations from the inside, which is invaluable when deciding if the industry or company is right for you long-term.
• Professional Confidence: Short-term roles can boost your confidence by proving you can adapt to new roles and environments quickly, an attractive trait to potential employers.
• Exposure to Various Industries: Temporary jobs give you the chance to work in multiple industries, which can broaden your understanding and identify where your passion and skills best align.
• Mental Health Benefits: Staying active and engaged in work helps maintain mental health by providing routine, social interaction, and a sense of accomplishment, all of which are crucial during career transitions.

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1. You still have some income

While unemployment benefits can sustain you from month to month, there is something inherently more rewarding about earning a paycheck through work. Although a temporary position might not provide a full-time income, it does offer some financial relief, which can keep you motivated in your search for permanent employment.

2. It can be a stepping stone to a full-time position

Many temporary jobs provide “temp-to-hire” opportunities, where you can work as a temporary employee for a trial period—typically three months, though this can vary based on the position. Once this period concludes, the company will evaluate whether you are a suitable fit for a permanent position. This arrangement also allows you to experience the company culture and the role firsthand, helping you decide if you would like to pursue the job full-time.

3. It adds experience to your resume

Having a few weeks of unemployment on your resume usually isn’t detrimental to your job search. However, a prolonged gap in employment might make potential employers hesitate. To circumvent the need for awkward explanations about extended periods of inactivity, consider taking a temporary job. This demonstrates to employers that you are committed to maintaining your relevance in the workforce, despite challenges in finding long-term employment.

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4. You can network

Working in a temporary position allows you to regularly network with professionals. Even if you don’t secure a full-time role at your current workplace, being an exemplary employee can lead to your boss helping you find a position elsewhere, offering a glowing letter of recommendation, or connecting you with someone looking to hire an individual with your qualifications.

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5. It keeps you active and challenged

Working a temporary job offers many benefits, including keeping you active and engaged instead of sitting at home with nothing to do. While having no obligations might seem relaxing initially, the lack of responsibilities can quickly become demoralizing. Taking a temp position helps break the monotonous cycle of staying indoors, keeps you motivated, and enhances your drive to secure a new job. You’ll find it more inspiring to be out in the workforce, actively contributing and networking, than to remain idle on the couch all day.

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Final Words

Temporary positions are more than just placeholders; they are a proactive step towards continuous professional development. By opting for temp roles, you not only fill the gaps in your resume but also broaden your network, enhance your skills, and increase your chances of landing a permanent position. Each temp job is a new opportunity to showcase your dedication and adaptability to potential employers, setting a firm foundation for future career success.

Additional Resources

1. Reset: How to Beat the Job-Loss Blues and Get Ready for Your Next Act

   

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   Layoff. If you haven't experienced one, you know someone who has. Dwain Schenck speaks with authority; not only has he seen energetic, talented, and accomplished friends undergo the stress of job loss, but he, too, has felt the sting of being "let go."

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   12/20/2024 09:13 am GMT
2. The Gift of Job Loss - A Practical Guide to Realizing the Most Rewarding Time of Your Life

   

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   Find practical advice on how to take advantage of your opportunity without regret. 

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   12/20/2024 09:28 am GMT
3. Healing After Job Loss: 100 Practical Ideas

   

   $11.95

   Full of practical, time-tested counsel, this handbook offers simple, useful tips and activities to counter the typically negative reactions to job loss, such as loss of self esteem, and explores thoughts and feelings with the goal of healin

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   12/19/2024 09:52 pm GMT
4. Moving On: New Life After Job Loss

   

   $10.95

   This book is about getting one's life in order and moving on after career setbacks. The book shares a number of anecdotes from personal experiences, intending that the book be both instructional and motivational in its tone.

   Buy on Amazon

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   12/20/2024 12:33 am GMT