Thursday, March 22, 2012

Before you turn your nose up at that temp job...

Sometimes people think of temporary jobs as having limited value.  Well, before you politely decline to discuss the contract job that the recruiter has called you twice about, consider this.  A temporary or contract position is just as much an interview and screening for you as it is for the employer.  Things often look better during the recruitment phase of the process.  This gives you a chance to see if you will be able to deal with the micromanaging boss or the constantly complaining coworker or even if the selections in the cafeteria support your vegan lifestyle. 

More than that however, as companies look to better manage their human capital, you may find short-term opportunities showing up more frequently.  Carefully consider the project or task that is to be accomplished and how it may increase your industry visibility or give you local credibility.  An assignment like this should do it's part to grow your knowledge and stretch your abilities as well as put money in your pocket. 

Another consideration is reputation of the organization.  An organization that is well-respected in the community on your resume is almost like a Las Vegas billboard, it makes you look.  And that's exactly what you want hiring leaders to do. 

So, even though it is not permanent (by the way, no jobs are ever "permanent"), consider all the benefits before you say no.

Until next time...

No comments:

Post a Comment