Posted December 11 2020
By Jade Mason
As the countdown to Christmas kicks in, there are three things that almost inevitable. You’ve already raid that tub of Quality Street that you were absolutely, positively not going to open until Christmas; you’re already wondering if you’ll be able to go away somewhere sunny next year; 2020 has been the wake up call your career needed.
I can’t really help you with the first two on that list, but I am already speaking to a host of HR candidates who – through choice or an unfortunate Covid-19 related redundancy - are ready to make the change with their career.
Whether you’ve been in a job for one year or ten years, however, a move can seem daunting. Will the people be as nice? Will you get the perks and benefits you’re used to? Will you be working remotely long term? These can all be big factors in your decision-making process.
That’s why becoming a temp can be really useful. This gives you time, as an attractive prospect, to think about what it really is you want to do next. It’s a nice “trial period” within a particular workplace and a regular source of income.
Temporary work often allows for the transition between different sectors of business – say, from FMCG to legal; accountancy to manufacturing – that full-time work doesn’t always lend itself to. This wealth of experience gives you the chance to gain a well-rounded view of the working world, having successfully been employed in many different environments.
You will still be able to job search whilst keeping a hand in at your specific skill set. It gives an employer a chance to see how you work and how well you blend into their existing workforce. Some of my temp candidates even find themselves being offered permanent roles, such is the impression they’ve made.
And, if permanent work is your long-term goal, taking on a temporary contract can be a great way to keep your skills refreshed and your CV up-to-date. It will keep you up to speed with any developments in your chosen sector and perhaps give you the chance to develop your skillset – something you can add to your CV with pride.
Temping is an incredibly flexible way of working. You are in control of your career and it’s far easier to take career breaks and fit your job around your life than the traditional 9 to 5. Many candidates, in fact, make an entire career out of temp positions as they enjoy being able to pick and choose their next contract.
The recruitment process at temp level – whilst quicker – is no less bespoke. I will always ensure that my candidates are placed in an environment that matches their needs and their skills set.
If you have decided to take on a new challenge in the Scottish HR market, I’d be delighted to help you secure an interesting temporary assignment.
Whether your long-term goals have changed or you are looking for new experiences,
click here to get in touch for a discussion on the HR roles that I am currently working on.