When you’re on the job market, your goal is often to find a full-time, permanent position that keeps you engaged, covers your bills, and supports your long-term career growth, and you want the whole package without compromise to any of these terms. However, the job search can sometimes take longer than expected. According to Teal, the hiring process is about 23-28 days, and the average job search takes between 5 – 6 months. Consequently, each week that passes widens your resume gap and shrinks your bank account. While searching for your next permanent role, consider taking on a temporary job. Here’s why it can be a game-changer.

Stay in Circulation

First and foremost, building your career relies heavily on your personal network to help you find hidden opportunities. A temporary position can expose you to a new workplace, new people, fresh perspectives, new relationships, and possibly even valuable professional friendships. Therefore, it’s not a bad idea to shake up your social ecosystem with a temporary role.

Develop New Skills

Additionally, when you think of a “temporary job,” you might imagine basic tasks like filing or typing. However, most temp jobs today require a higher level of skill than you might expect. Moreover, temporary employers often provide on-the-job training, helping you develop new skills that can benefit your long-term career growth. These new skills can be your secret weapon in making you more competitive in the job market.

Close the Resume Gap

If you’ve been on the job market for more than six months, interviewers and potential employers will likely ask what you’ve been doing during this time. Fortunately, working a temporary job, no matter where or how, provides a solid answer and keeps your resume current. This can significantly support your career development by demonstrating your continuous employment and adaptability.

Reduce Financial Pressure

Furthermore, having any paycheck coming in from a temporary job allows you to keep the lights on and the bills paid. Financial stability can also reduce the pressure to accept the wrong position or a lower salary than you’d like. As a result, patience gives you leverage at the negotiating table, and nothing builds patience like a steady income.

Stay Updated in Your Industry

Most industries evolve rapidly. Even if your temporary job ends in a few weeks or months, staying active in the workplace helps you stay aware of industry changes. Plus, a short-term gig might turn into a long-term opportunity. Ultimately, being present and attentive in a temporary job makes you more likely to recognize and seize available opportunities, supporting your career trajectory.

For more information on how to find and land a temporary job that supports your career, turn to the staffing experts at PSU.