Have you been laid off? Not sure when you’ll get the call to come back to work? Did you lose your job because of COVID-19? Like thousands of Canadians, you’re probably considering your options and thinking about the next step in your career.
With CERB coming to an end in October, and with the federal government planning to fold it into EI, now is the time to start ramping up your job search (if you already haven’t.) How this will play out is still to be determined and will ultimately affect how much support you’ll receive.
While many laid off workers are looking to find a similar position, it may not be feasible right now. One way to get back on your feet quickly is to consider temporary work while you continue your job search.
Here are the main advantages of taking on temp roles until something permanent comes along:
are you open to working a temporary job? we can help you find the right fit.
have a source of income coming in
Having a job means you’ll have money coming in on a regular basis. You’ll know how much you are making and will not have to worry about the government changes to CERB or EI. Many temporary jobs can be full time and will pay you more than you would receive on CERB.
it shows you’re taking initiative
Rather than waiting for the perfect opportunity to present itself, going out and working a temp job shows initiative and a willingness to work hard. Hiring companies will take note of the fact that you stayed active in the workforce, especially during this challenging time.
it could lead to a full time position
You never know when a temp role could lead to a permanent full time job. Many companies hire on a temporary basis and if they find the right person, they hire them as a permanent member of their team. Working for a company in any capacity gives them the opportunity to learn more about you, see your value, and better understand how you can be an asset to their organization.
network and meet new people
Taking on a temporary role allows you to meet new people in a new organization. It also allows you to network and potentially connect with people who could help you in your job search. You may be able to identify opportunities within the company or with another organization that is hiring permanent roles. You never know who you’ll meet that can help you with your career and offer guidance.
build your confidence
Getting out there and working, even if it’s temporary, will help you build confidence. Getting laid off or losing your job is a tough situation for anyone. Getting out there and working, interacting with people, and taking positive steps forward in your career is good for you mentally. It will help you get back your confidence and put you in the right mindset when looking for a job.
identify and build new skills
Taking on a temporary job can help you develop new skills that you can add to your resume. You may even identify new skills and tasks that appeal to you. This can help you better refine your job search and open you up to new types of roles and positions you may have not considered in the past.
Temporary work may be just what you need to find the full time permanent role you are looking for. Don’t discount opportunities just because they are not the perfect job. They can be a means to an end and help you take a step forward in your career progression.