Slarky

While salaried positions are being cut back, either in pay or overall numbers, more businesses are taking advantage of contractors, temporary employment agencies, and freelancers to boost their productivity while cutting down on expenditures for benefits and retirement funds.

This trend means that many who suffer from layoffs or paycheck cuts may be seeking temporary work to replace or supplement their income. Career counselors advise that temporary employees milk as many benefits as possible from this situation. The income, of course, is paramount, but your new job situation has also cost you security. By taking advantage of networking opportunities provided by temp work, employees can continue to progress in their careers and enhance their long term possibilities.

Communicate with salaried co-workers to find out whether the company utilizing your services regularly hires contractors, or if this is a stop-gap measure. If it’s the latter, position yourself for the potential to be hired permanently later on. If the department you’re currently working with does make a habit of using temp services, research which departments do hire full-time employees, and make contacts within them.

Also, be aware of the terms of your contract. Some agencies require you to wait 90 days after fulfillment of your contract before being hired by companies they have assigned you to previously. If this is the case, plan a savings fund for weathering this period.