Temporary employment can be a good way to reintegrate into the labour market after a setback (professional or personal) or a prolonged absence (sabbatical year, maternity leave).
“For someone who hasn’t worked for awhile, returning to work temporarily causes less stress and helps get back on their feet,” says Julie Gosselin, Employment Advisor at GIT Employment Consulting Services. She adds as well that temporary work helps to retake possession of your skills, as well as having a lighter return to work to regain confidence and self-esteem.
The benefits of temporary employment
Temporary employment, that is, for a given period (fixed duration contracts, carrying out a defined task or project, seasonal, occasional or day work) has several positive aspects for a gentle return. It enables flexible hours, particularly for work-family balance.
If it is a career change after a leave from work leading to a reorientation, temporary employment will help gain experience to get a permanent job, if that’s what you want.
Of course, any job, even temporary, will also increase your income.
Are you ready to plunge back into the job market? “Use your network of contacts by clearly setting out what you are looking for,” advises Julie Gosselin. “Contact employers directly by phone, email or LinkedIn to offer your services,” adds the employment counsellor. Other social media, such as Facebook, or job websites are also good routes to find what you are looking for.
According to the professional, it is also important to target the companies that interest you and that offer temporary jobs, or to specify it when expressing your interest. “You can even go in person to the companies,” says Julie Gosselin.
Giving yourself the means
To understand the temporary job you want better, and to get back in the saddle, sign up for training and get involved in the fields or groups you might be interested in. This may help guide your search for the assignment you are seeking.