Each week, an average 3 million people in the United States choose contract work as their method of employment. According to the American Staffing Association, over 16 million people will work in a contract or temporary position each year, and that number is expected to grow. Pursuing contract work has tons of benefits. The ability to test out new roles, work when and how you want, network, maintain job security and grow your career are some of the top reasons employees turn to this type of employment.
Test the waters
Contract work offers freedom to test the waters and determine what type of position is best for you. People who work contract roles often have the opportunity to utilize their current skills in different roles and environments, or they can even develop new skills. Temporary roles are a great way to try out different positions or industries for a short period of time. If you enjoy a position, there may even be an opportunity to join the organization full time after the contract is up. On the other hand, if you decide your skill set is better suited elsewhere, you’re free to move on to the next opportunity once your time is up. If you’re someone who enjoys trying new things, contract employment may be the path for you.
Work when you want and how you want
Contract employees typically have more control over their work schedules than permanent employees. Since workers are hired for a set period of time or for a specific project, this gives you flexibility on when and how you want to work. Depending on the line of work, some workers are offered opportunities to work remotely or in a hybrid environment. Temporary work also allows you the option of taking breaks in between assignments to evaluate what your next career move should be. Contract work is an excellent career path if you enjoy being in control of your schedule.
Build your network
Contract positions open up opportunities to meet new people and build your professional network. Since workers typically change positions every few months or so, they meet many more people than the typical full-time employee. As you explore different positions and organizations, you’ll have the opportunity to network with lots of people who can provide professional guidance or answer questions about potential career paths. If you enjoy meeting new people and growing your network, contract work could be the perfect fit for you.
Maintain job security
Temporary work can sometimes be seen as lacking job security; in fact, it’s actually the opposite. On average, contract jobs last anywhere from three months to two years. During that time, temporary workers are not seen as part of an organization’s regular head count. This means more job security and possibly a lower risk of being affected by organizational change or restructuring. At the same time, once a contract job is complete, contract workers can tap into their vast professional network or utilize a staffing recruiter to quickly find their next assignment. Contract work offers you many career opportunities while also maintaining job security.
Grow your career
Contract work puts you in charge of your career growth. Many job seekers cite the need for a clear path to career advancement as a top priority during their job search. Temporary work allows you to advance your career at your own pace. Employees who choose contract work can see advancement much faster than employees in a traditional, permanent position. Most promotions take one to two years on average. However, contract employees can see a promotion as soon as their next role. Temporary work can help skyrocket your career.
No matter which industry you choose to pursue a career in, it’s likely that contract work has a part in it. Contract work allows you to test out different positions and industries, work how and where you want to, build a solid network, maintain job security and grow your career quickly. Regardless if you’re just getting started or you’re ready to take your career to the next level, contract work is for you.
Ready to find your contract work opportunity? Check out our contract opportunities and chat with a recruiter by visiting jobs.medixteam.com.
