Temporary - WKTV Journal

By West Michigan Works!

With the holiday shopping season right around the corner, retailers are growing their staff to meet customers’ needs. Last year more than 640,000 seasonal jobs were filled. This year even more openings are projected.

If you’re looking for a job, consider a temporary, seasonal position. Here’s why:

Gives you experience. Whether you’re providing customer service in a store or fulfilling online orders in a warehouse, you will encounter opportunities to problem-solve. You can use these situations as examples in future interviews.

If you aren’t working right now, this job can fill in an employment gap on your resume.

Provides a referral. Before your last day, ask your supervisor (or a colleague) to be a referral for future jobs. Consider exchanging personal email addresses and phone numbers so you can keep in touch if they move to a different company.

Leads to future opportunities. Treat your seasonal job like a permanent one. Impress your supervisor by being on time and working hard. If you are interested in long-term employment with the company, let your supervisor know. Ask them to keep you in mind for future opportunities.

Expands your network. Build a relationship with your coworkers and let them know you’re looking for a permanent job. Keep in contact with them after your position ends via social media, email or phone calls.

Ready to look into a seasonal position? Here are four openings to get you started in your search:

Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.

By West Michigan Works!

Nearly 3 million people hold temporary jobs. The number is expected to increase as employers struggle to meet growing demand for goods and services. The trend is seen in a variety of occupations and pay levels, in all industries and at companies, large and small.

Temporary employment appeals to employers for obvious reasons, but there are advantages for employees as well. While temporary jobs are just that —temporary — taking a short-term position can be a smart career move. Here are five reasons to seriously consider a temporary job:

Temporary work can be a great opportunity to develop new skills or open the door to a new industry you hadn’t considered. You can also use the opportunity to sharpen your current skill set. Many staffing companies provide training to their temporary workers.
Whether the position turns into a permanent job or not, you’ll meet new people. You’ll leave the job with new personal and professional connections. An expanded network can only improve your job search.
If you’ve been unemployed for a long time, you may feel restless or hopeless. A temporary job can provide much-needed structure and purpose to your day.
Temporary work often leads to permanent employment. A good work ethic and positive attitude will capture any employer’s attention. Treat everyday like an audition; if the employer is looking to hire full-time, you’ll be a front-runner.
“A” job is better than “no” job. A temporary job beats a large gap in employment history on your resume. Many recruiters and employers will see your temporary work as a positive sign of your ambition and work ethic.

Employment Expertise is provided by West Michigan Works! Learn more about how they can help: visit westmiworks.org or your local Service Center.