BUILDING A FLEXIBLE CAREER PATH THROUGH TEMPORARY WORK

Building a Flexible Career Path through Temporary Work

In today’s rapidly changing job market, flexibility has become a cornerstone of career development. Traditional career paths, characterized by long-term commitments to a single employer, are increasingly being replaced by more dynamic and adaptable approaches. One such approach is leveraging temporary work to build a flexible and fulfilling career path. Temporary work, or temp work, offers numerous benefits that can help professionals navigate the modern employment landscape with greater agility and confidence.

The Rise of Temporary Work

Temporary work has seen a significant rise in recent years, driven by both employer needs and worker preferences. Companies are increasingly relying on temporary employees to manage fluctuating workloads, fill short-term gaps, and bring in specialized skills for specific projects. Simultaneously, workers are seeking greater control over their schedules, diverse work experiences, and opportunities to develop new skills without long-term commitments (Forbes).

Advantages of Temporary Work

  1. Skill Development and Diversification: Temporary work provides an excellent platform to acquire and refine a wide range of skills. Each assignment presents a new environment, different challenges, and unique learning opportunities. This continuous exposure helps you build a versatile skill set, making you more adaptable and valuable in the job market (Indeed).
  2. Networking Opportunities: Working in various organizations allows you to expand your professional network significantly. Each temporary role introduces you to new colleagues, managers, and industry contacts. Building a robust network can open doors to future job opportunities, collaborations, and valuable industry insights (LinkedIn).
  3. Career Exploration: Temporary work is an ideal way to explore different industries, roles, and company cultures without long-term commitments. It enables you to gain firsthand experience and insights into what suits you best, helping you make more informed career decisions. This exploration can be particularly beneficial for recent graduates or individuals considering a career change (The Balance Careers).
  4. Flexibility and Work-Life Balance: One of the most attractive aspects of temporary work is the flexibility it offers. You can choose assignments that fit your schedule, allowing for better work-life balance. This flexibility is especially valuable for those managing family responsibilities, pursuing further education, or engaging in personal projects (FlexJobs).
  5. Income Stability: Contrary to the perception that temporary work is unstable, it can provide a steady income stream when managed effectively. By maintaining a roster of potential assignments and staying proactive in your job search, you can ensure a consistent flow of work and income. Additionally, temporary roles often come with competitive pay rates, especially for specialized skills (Monster).

Strategies for Success in Temporary Work

To maximize the benefits of temporary work and build a flexible career path, consider the following strategies:

  1. Be Proactive and Organized: Stay ahead in your job search by maintaining an updated resume and a list of potential employers and staffing agencies. Utilize online job boards, social media, and professional networks to find new opportunities. Keeping a calendar of assignments and deadlines will help you manage multiple roles effectively (CareerBuilder).
  2. Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Embrace every temporary role as a learning opportunity. Stay curious, ask questions, and seek feedback to improve your performance. Being adaptable and open to new experiences will make you a more attractive candidate for future assignments (Harvard Business Review).
  3. Market Your Skills: Clearly articulate your diverse skill set and experiences on your resume and professional profiles. Highlight your ability to adapt quickly, work in various environments, and bring value to different types of projects. Demonstrating your versatility will attract a wider range of job opportunities (TopResume).
  4. Build Strong Relationships: Make a positive impression in every temporary role by being reliable, professional, and collaborative. Building strong relationships with colleagues and supervisors can lead to repeat assignments, recommendations, and permanent job offers (Entrepreneur).
  5. Balance Short-term Goals with Long-term Vision: While temporary work is inherently short-term, it’s important to keep your long-term career goals in mind. Use each assignment strategically to build skills and experiences that align with your overarching career aspirations. Regularly reassess your career plan and adjust your approach as needed (Fast Company).

Conclusion

Building a flexible career path through temporary work is a viable and rewarding strategy in today’s job market. It offers a unique combination of skill development, networking, career exploration, and work-life balance. By embracing the opportunities that temporary work presents and adopting effective strategies, you can create a dynamic and fulfilling career that adapts to your evolving goals and the changing employment landscape. Embrace the flexibility, stay proactive, and watch your career flourish in ways you never imagined.

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS FOR JOBSEEKERS

Your resume captured the employer’s attention and now it’s time to organize for the interview! Reviewing questions and preparing ahead of time enhances confidence on your big day! Don’t be alarmed with unexpected interview questions. Be prepared to give proficient and thought-out responses, highlighting skills required for the job opening.  Do allow room for creativity as you may be asked perplexed questions, and rehearse the questions below with others for constructive feedback. Much success on your interview!

ARE YOU READY FOR YOUR INTERVIEW? CONSIDER THESE QUESTIONS:

1.  What are your career goals this coming year?

Share career goals and the steps you’re taking to achieve them. Having long-term and short-term goals paints a professional picture of your dreams and aspirations. Companies like individuals who are motivated and goal oriented.

2. Did your previous employer need improvement in any area?

The idea is to identify potential problems, while offering positive solutions. This is a great opportunity to highlight leadership skills, as well as strategies implemented that have proven successful in the past.

3.  Can you describe a challenging scenario, and share how you handled it?

Discrepancies on the job happen, yet how we handle circumstances makes all the difference. Think outside the box and get creative when pondering different solutions. For instance, you can share of a scenario when you went beyond your job duties to assist a client who was upset gathering resources, making phone calls, and more. This scenario shows employee flexibility, dedication, and strong leadership skills.

4.  What are looking to gain from our company?

Rather than focusing on pay rate and employee benefits, consider other positive attributes the company offers like longevity and opportunities for career growth.

5.  What are your professional strengths?

The interviewer wants to know what you have to offer to the company. Why should they choose you over other job candidates? Highlight attributes you possess that pertain to the job position at hand. For example, if you are applying for a customer service role, mention your people skills and ability to be a team player. Creating a self-assessment list prior to the interview can also prove beneficial.

6.  What professional areas are you looking to improve?

My recommendation is to share attributes that can be tolerated by other colleagues. These should be traits that can be worked on over time. For example, becoming more proficient in another language, learning a new software program, or getting to know co-workers.

7.  Why are you leaving your current employer?

The company is curious as to why you chose to resign from your current position. Be honest about circumstances causing you to leave or seek for new employment opportunities.  

8.  Why are you applying for this position?

Why did you choose this company over other employment opportunities? This is a great time to express your passion and qualities that make you the perfect candidate for the job. Share features that make the company stand out from other employers. For example, mention the length of time the company has been in business, or the professional assistance you’ve received since day one.  

9.  Are you willing to relocate for work if needed?

It’s important to show flexibility, but also be realistic in your response. Share work accommodations that fit your schedule and current lifestyle. Perhaps you are flexible and willing to relocate, yet only within the same state or county. Most companies will value your desire for a fair compromise.

10. Do you have any questions for me? 

Be prepared to ask questions. This shows interest in part of the potential job candidate. This is also a good time to inquire on company benefits, scheduling, and job expectations.

TIPS FOR LEADERS ON DELEGATING EFFECTIVELY

Feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities and expectations others have of you in the workplace? Oftentimes those in leadership positions are consumed with numerous tasks and job roles. Yet, some assignments that can be entrusted to other coworkers are not being delegated. Sharing responsibilities is essential in leadership to help alleviate workload, allowing more time for important matters that cannot be taken care of by others. 

7 TIPS FOR LEADERS ON DELEGATING EFFECTIVELY:

1. Be precise when describing tasks that need to be accomplished. When delegating it’s important to be specific on what’s expected of the individual. For example: Sally, I need you to contact the phone company regarding an error showing in our phone bill this month. Our company account number and information you may need is attached to the original bill. Please contact the phone company, and get back to me today by 2:00p.m with updates on the matter.

2. Be clear on expected deadlines. Provide deadlines that are within a reasonable timeframe. This gives employees time to prepare and plan accordingly. Please see example above.

3. Define the job culture. Employees should have a clear understanding of “who to go to” with any given situation. Some companies have set departments, while others have a chain-of-command. Each job culture varies, yet employees should be aware of what’s expected of them.

4. Plan team meetings. Scheduling meetings is a great way to evaluate each team member’s progress, ask questions, and share concerns. It offers everyone the opportunity to voice his or her perspective and to brainstorm ideas. It also allows team leaders to reexamine the course of action if outcomes are not as anticipated.  

5. Avoid delegating assignments that are beyond the employee’s scope or skills. Some occupations require licensure or certifications to perform specific job duties. Familiarize yourself with employee positions and job roles to ensure delegation falls within their skills and scope of practice. 

6. Remain flexible and supportive. This may be a new responsibility for some employees, which may take time and practice to master. You can show support by answering questions and being accessible for help if needed. Patience and support from leaders is crucial.

7. Define responsibility. Some job roles can be delegated without any shared responsibility, while others cannot. For example, a Registered Nurse can delegate a nursing assistant to take a blood pressure reading on her client, yet if the job is not done the responsibility falls on the nurse in charge of the client. In this case the responsibility is on the Registered Nurse who’s been assigned to care for the client, not on the nursing assistant. Always keep in mind your occupational responsibilities and scope of practice when delegating work assignments.

HOW TO CREATE AN ACTION PLAN FOR YOUR DREAM JOB.

You’re ready for the job market with a professional resume on hand and a list of potential employers. Having an internal drive launches employment opportunities, yet for optimal possibilities preparation and planning is paramount. Why settle for the first job offer, when you can attain the position of your dreams? Landing the ideal occupation is reachable with determination and adequate career planning. 

Here is a 7-Step Action Plan to Landing Your Dream Job:

1. Join meet-ups, professional groups, and related organizations with topics and activities surrounding your occupational field. For example, if you’re seeking an educator position connect with other teachers, tutors, coaches, leaders, and speakers in groups and community meetings. 

2. Create a blueprint outlining your occupational goals for the upcoming weeks, months, and years. Mapping out short and long-term goals allows for adequate planning with a step-by-step approach in accomplishing each milestone. Don’t limit your creativity. Build a picture board, design a career graph, develop a career scrapbook, or start a professional portfolio. The idea is to inspire creativity, define goals, and develop attainable milestones to land your dream job.

3. Attend job fairs and career workshops in your area. Step into the work field examining opportunities, career demands, and job offers. Job fairs offer vast resources in addition to employment opportunities such as business networking, research, volunteer positions, invites to upcoming events, and more.

4. Take time to learn companies of interest. Learn the organization’s mission, history, purpose, and accomplishments. This offers valuable company data that can be shared during the interview process. Researching the company shows interest and seriousness in part of the job seeker, and also allows the individual to determine if this company is truly a good fit for his/her personal career goals.

5. Be open to the possibility of other related jobs. Certain milestones, work experience, and credentials may be required before the opportunity opens to land the job of your dreams. In such instances individuals can seek employment in related fields, serving as a springboard to other career goals. For instance, if you lack credentials for a management position search for employment opportunities that embrace like skills such as leadership, guidance, coordinating, directing, and other administrative roles.

6. Read journals, news articles, periodicals, magazines and other educational materials in your occupational niche.  Staying current with the latest technology and advances in your job field is crucial for employment and for optimal work performance. This is particularly important for individuals who have been out of the workforce for some time. The employee’s ability to stay relevant and well informed in the latest career and technological advances gains confidence with employers and other professional’s leaders.   

7. Connect with individuals who share common job interests and goals. Meeting others in work-related fields welcomes opportunities, potential jobs, promotions, career tips, and professional guidance.

HOW TO THRIVE IN A MULTI-CULTURAL WORK ENVIRONMENT

There are numerous benefits to working with diverse teams of co-workers. Multi-cultural work environments bring forth positive attributes like creativity, new perspectives, unique solutions, and the influence of workplace culture. Working with individuals of different ethnic backgrounds may also present challenges and misunderstandings. In today’s multi-cultural society it’s crucial for employees to learn norms and expectations of other cultures. Embracing differences promotes staff and client relations, and also contributes to pleasant work environments.

TIPS TO THRIVING IN A MULTI-CULTURAL WORKPLACE:

1. Begin by researching common cultures in your work environment. There are interesting facts and suggestions to promote social skills on the job. Learning beliefs and behaviors brings understanding and improves communication among staff.

2. Speak to your supervisor about your interest. Leaders can direct you to resources, valuable information, and conduct meetings for the benefit of all employees.

3. Show curiosity in various cultures. For instance, if a staff member brings an ethnic dish to the holiday party you can ask about the ingredients, or if the dish is a typical ethnic food, etc. The idea is to welcome other cultures and to encourage individuals to share their ethnic backgrounds.

4. Communicate any misunderstandings with your supervisor before confronting an employee. Supervisors can share light on the situation providing information you may not have known. They can also speak to the employee about the issue giving your perspective in a professional manner. Be sure to follow-up with your supervisor to ensure matters have been resolved, and to discuss solutions. 

5. Be respectful of cultural differences. It’s rare to agree on all matters among people who share common backgrounds, let a lone when interacting with different cultures. Be mindful of other employee’s beliefs and ethnic norms. Keep in mind that embracing differences helps promote relationships and a better workplace.

TIPS TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY IN THE WORKPLACE

Job responsibilities and time constraints in the workplace calls attention to the importance of productivity. This is essential for individuals in professional roles were company success is co-dependent on leadership performance and accountability. Having more time to accomplish tasks doesn’t necessarily yield better results. On the other hand, using allotted time efficiently and effectively can bring about even greater positive outcomes.

LEADERSHIP TIPS TO INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY IN THE WORKPLACE

1. Focus on one project at a time. It’s difficult to concentrate on any given assignment when your attention is split on numerous tasks. Rather than multitasking, thoroughly complete one project before engaging in another.

2. Schedule times for correspondence. Not all messages and calls need immediate attention. Wait for an opportune time to address correspondence, and then address each message and phone call in order of importance. Being quick to respond to incoming emails and calls can disrupt creativity and workflow.   

3. Take care of important jobs first. It’s easy to procrastinate least enjoyable assignments or those requiring great effort. As the day evolves these projects seem all the more dreadful when a time crunch is in place. Instead, place important tasks on the top of your daily to-do list.  

4. Do what can be done today. If taking care of an assignment today alleviates tomorrows workload, then it’s best to finish the same day. Do take into consideration other work responsibilities and job roles. Don’t overload yourself to the point of exhaustion, which can potential decrease productivity the following day. Use discretion when considering additional assignments.

5. Take breaks. Skipping breaks and lunch time may seem like the best way to get the most out of your workday. Yet, depleting your body of nutrition and rest can have negative impacts on work performance and health. Take a breather from time-to-time throughout the day. Recharging your mind and body promotes creativity and productivity.

HOW TO EXPLAIN EMPLOYMENT GAPS DURING AN INTERVIEW

At times life circumstances cause longer than expected periods of unemployment. Extended time off from work raises questions for hiring mangers and human resource personnel considering potential jobseekers. Most employers understand career detours occur, yet how time is managed during such situations can greatly influence new job opportunities. Instead of contemplating long periods of unemployment, elaborate on knowledge and skills acquired during time off from work leading to greater career achievements. 

HOW TO EXPLAIN EMPLOYMENT GAPS DURING AN INTERVIEW:

Employment gaps may result from family or personal emergencies, changes in careers, continuing education requirements, a residential move, and others. What is done during extended periods without a job is what most employers seek to explore. You may be asked what resulted in long periods of unemployment, or to explain large gaps in your employment history. The key is to highlight steps taken that enhanced your career and professional goals. You may want to mention educational and technical courses, internships, and other accomplishments done during this period. Other things to mention are projects and career groups with other professionals in your field. Share efforts and steps taken for occupational achievements even while unemployed. Doing so shows career dedication, motivation, character, and creative thinking. 

What might seem like a weakness can turnout to be a strength when presented in a professional manner. Situations arise causing changes in career plans. Be descriptive when asked to explain employment gaps, elaborating on conscious efforts that resulted in optimal career enhancements. Share career goals and the steps you’re taking to achieve them. Having long-term and short-term goals paints a picture of your professional dreams and aspirations. Most companies are inspired by motivated and goal oriented jobseekers. Rather than delving on the negatives and what lead to periods of unemployment, draw attention to the multiple accomplishments that resulted in career achievements and new professional opportunities.

EFFECTS OF EXTENDED WORK SHIFTS ON EMPLOYEE HEALTH & PRODUCTIVITY

Most of us are familiar with jobs offering overtime hours extending beyond a 40-hour work week. For entrepreneurs and employees creating their schedule, working long hours is often the norm, making it difficult to disengage mentally from work. In turn many employees. Electronic devices intended to increase productivity are being used throughout the day, evening, and on weekends for work-related responsibilities. There are great benefits in using technology, yet it’s crucial to diligently balance work and social life. Whether you work a fixed schedule or different hours of the day employee safety begins with education. Taking positive steps when working extended hours promotes health, safety, and work productivity.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) comments on long work shifts, “According to U.S. National Health Interview data from 2010, almost 19% of working adults work 48 hour or more per week and over 7% worked 60 hours or more. Both shift work and long work hours have been associated with health and safety risks.” Sleep deprivation can affect concentration, alertness, mood, and general health. Attentiveness to details is critical in certain occupations like nursing, chemists, pharmacists, employees operating heavy machinery, and others. Feeling tired, stressed, fatigued, or burnout not only affects work performance, but also safety concerns for yourself and others.  

The University of Surrey documents a study by the Journal of Science on the effects of sleep loss on various brain regions. “Research has significant implications for our understanding of how the brain is locally affected by internal time of day and sleep-wake cycles.  Results shed light on why shift workers and people working very long hours struggle to pay attention and concentrate on their job, in particular in the early morning hours,” documents The University of Surrey. Working extended hours coupled with consistent lack of sleep can only raise health concerns. When working overtime hours, consider ways to ensure adequate sleep and proper nutrition each day. Accommodate your work schedule to allow times of relaxation. Perhaps take a power nap during one of your breaks or enjoy a 15-minute meditation? The idea is to find creative ways to take breaks, eat nutritious foods, and get adequate sleep each night when working extended hours.

5 TIPS WHEN WORKING OVERTIME HOURS:

1. Don’t skip meals. Healthy foods fuel your body and mind. When working long hours, it’s important to fuel the brain and body with nutritious foods.

2. Take a break. Disconnecting for a few minutes can increase creativity and focus.

3. Maintain a regular sleep schedule. To be your most productive and keep mentally sharp it’s vital to get a good night’s rest. If having trouble sleeping early, refrain from having caffeine in the later afternoon.  

4. Make times for activities that bring joy. Lasting success is grounded with balance. Hobbies and activities that create meaning, joy, and purpose enhance mood.

5. If overwhelmed talk with your employer. If you feel exhausted and depleted with all the job responsibilities, voice your concerns. At times the employer is not fully aware of the workload or how you’re coping with working extended hours. If you’re feeling burnout be sure to express your concerns to your supervisor. 

*This article is for informational purposes only and not intended to direct health advice. For health questions please inquire with your physician.

TIPS TO GETTING POSITIVE RESULTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA JOB SEARCHES

Social media is one of the strongest platforms used by jobseekers and businesses alike. Individuals seeking employment as well as companies needing qualified workers benefit from Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and other social sites. With the growing interest in social media, more and more individuals conveniently search for jobs using mobile and other electronic devices. However, it can be daunting to examine numerous job posts from various social accounts on a daily basis. The good news is jobseekers can narrow work options and get positive results by implementing a few strategies on social sites. 

TIPS TO GETTING POSITIVE RESULTS ON SOCIAL MEDIA JOB SEARCHES:

1. Use hatchtags (#) and keywords when conducting job searches. Keywords are often used to draw in candidates with occupational skills suitable for the job opening. When seeking employment on social media include your occupation (e.g. Administrative Assistance) and location of work preference (Miami, West Palm Beach, Boca, etc.). You can also search for work schedule preferences such as part-time, fulltime, temp-to-perm, and seasonal. Precise hatchtags are useful when seeking work specialties. Examples include #cardiacnurse, #pharmacists, and #automechanic. General hatchtags are also worth exploring as many posts are geared to attract a large social media audience. Examples include #jobseekers, #jobs, and #hiring.  

2. Explore different job searches. One job search can include the keywords “fulltime hairstylist”, while another search includes “hiring pharmacist Miami”. Introduce various keywords that align with your career options and desired work environment.

3. Review the date on social media posts. Established social accounts have numerous followers, and posts can be shared between followers rather quickly. A job that was available in the morning may no longer have an opening in the later afternoon. It doesn’t hurt to contact the company for more information, but do keep in mind jobs may become unavaibale rather quickly.

4. Reach out to human resources or staffing personnel.  Depending on the company’s social media manager, comments and messages left by jobseekers on social sites may not be retrieved instantaneously. It’s best to contact the human resources department directly for specifics on job openings.

5. Have a notebook or note-taking app handy. List available job openings in order of preference. Highlight jobs you contacted, and include information of the human resource personnel for follow-up if needed. Keeping organized decreases confusion and increases productivity, as many companies post the same job openings in various social sites.

6. Stay proactive. Social media sites are very active and the information spreads very quickly. If there is a job opening that resonates with your skills and qualifications be sure to respond in a timely fashion. 

TIP FOR JOB SEEKERS ON MASTERING PANEL INTERVIEWS

Panel interviews are gaining popularity as employers earnestly seek for exceptional staff to represent their company. The hiring process can be daunting, let a lone interviewing with a panel of top company leaders. Don’t be caught in a state of panic. Be prepared and confident throughout the interview process by mastering the ten strategies listed below.

10 STRATEGIES TO MASTER PANEL INTERVIEWS:

1. Learn the company. Research facts, accomplishments, projects, goals, and company credentials. Much information is accessible on the web and in company websites. Gathering company data can be of great value when preparing for an interview, demonstrating interest and adequate preparation in part of the jobseeker.

2. Examine the job culture. Every company has a unique work environment. Scope the workplace examining language, attire, employee interactions, and overall work ambiance. Verbal and nonverbal cues will key you into the job culture.

3. Be prepared to answer an array of questions. You may have all the credentials on paper, yet there are personal attributes that can make or break your chances of getting hired. How well do you handle change, stress, and unexpected life events? How do you spend your time outside of work? Are you involved in high-risk activities? Do you attend non-profitable organizations? Answers to these questions share insight on character and behavioral patterns in and out of the workplace.

4. Make a list of strong points you want to discuss. Panel interviews provide opportunity to share valuable information with company leaders. Outline how you can be an asset to the company, share goals & aspirations, and provide other valuable points. The idea is to stand out from the crowd, highlighting your passion and ambition for the job position.

5. Ask questions. Make a list of valuable questions for the interviewer. Be sure to inquire job responsibilities and expectations that may affect you as a future employee. Will the company be opening more locations? Is there room for growth in the company? What are the benefits for full-time employees?

6. Prepare days in advance. Practice and preparation is key for success when interviewing. Ask family and friends to listen as you engage asking and answering different interview questions. Have your resume, professional attire, and other needed essentials ready days in advance for the interview. 

7. Stay focused and confident throughout the interview. Fear, anxiety, excitement, dread, nervousness, and other emotions may arise as various leaders flood you with questions. Regain your focus and confidence remembering what you want to accomplish from this interview.

8. Follow-up. Send a follow-up email to the assigned personnel sharing your gratitude for the job consideration. If appropriate, inquire as to when you should be expecting a response on your qualification status. 

9. Be patient. Panel interviews can take days to weeks before a final decision is made. Some companies perform all interviews in one day, while others separate interviews into weeks.

10. Stay positive and learn from experiences. Give it your best and regardless of the outcome, this will be a valuable experience in the interviewing process. If you get the job, great! If you don’t get hired ask yourself what you can learn from the experience, and be confident for the next interview. Panel interviewing can be intimidating, but with practice and preparation it can be beneficial for both employees and companies. This form of interviewing provides job candidates one-on-one access with company leaders to address important points in the hiring process. Although it can be nerve-racking, panel interviews can have positive outcomes for both businesses and job candidates. Much success on your panel interview!