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Temping may have been seen as a less attractive option than permanent work in the past, but the economic downturn has re-shaped the job market landscape; while we continue to see some growth in new jobs, companies are remaining cautious and temp jobs have started to overtake permanent roles in terms of popularity.
We have found that while there are more jobs out there now than in recent months, there are also more people applying for these jobs. So, if you’re struggling to find a permanent job or don’t want to tie yourself down to one role for a long period of time, temping could be the answer.
1. You’re in control
One of the biggest benefits of temporary jobs is flexibility. YOU are in control of your career and it’s far easier to take career breaks and fit your job around your life. Although not having a fixed job may be scary at first, it’s easy to become addicted to the freedom of doing temporary work when you want.
While there are more new jobs out there than in recent months, there are also more people applying for these jobs. If you’re struggling to find a permanent job or don’t want to tie yourself down, temping could be the answer.Click To Tweet2. Learn new skills
Different companies use different systems to get the job done, even if they’re doing the same work. For example, IT jobs have hundreds of different computer programs to contend with, sales jobs utilize different databases, and even catering and hospitality jobs and retail jobs have different ways of dealing with customers. By spending time temping across various roles you can learn new skills and see how different companies operate, making you far more employable and really enriching your resume.
3. Experience counts
And that brings us on to experience. If you manage to work on a couple of contracts with respected companies, you’ll find it immediately makes your cv more impressive and could mean the difference between ending up on the Yes or No pile.
4. Network, network, then network some more
It’s not what you know, it’s who you know. Although not entirely true, there is something to be said for building up contacts. Whether it’s for references or meeting like-minded people who may be able to help you further down the line, temping can really lengthen your contacts book.
5. A foot in the door
Some jobs are far more competitive than others. Following our totaljobs.com Barometer report into the jobs market, we found that each of our customer services jobs was receiving an average of 41 applications. Ouch. And this was closely followed by secretarial jobs, retail jobs, transport jobs, and catering jobs. If you’re looking to break into these competitive industries then a temporary job could be a very important foot in the door.
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6. All work and no play
Temp work allows you to take more time out for yourself. And recent reports have shown that more workers than ever before are suffering from work-related stress. Happiness in a job has never been more important to us and a temp job can help you to gain perspective.
7. You’re still protected
It’s important to remember that as a temporary employee you still have rights and are entitled to benefits like sick pay, holiday allowance, and regular pay. You are also expected to be given the same quality of working conditions as your permanent colleagues.
8. I’m leaving on a jet plane
If you want to experience a new culture then you can always think big and look for jobs outside of your state or country. For example, if you have experience in engineering jobs or construction jobs then Middle East jobs may appeal for a change of pace. And the best thing is, if you change your mind it’s only a temporary position so you won’t harm your career.
9. What now?
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10. Onwards and upwards
Don’t forget, if you are after something more permanent, many temporary jobs can lead to permanent positions, particularly if you prove yourself to be invaluable to the company. Never turn down a good temp role just because you want a permanent contract – you never know where it might lead…
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