What do you do if you want to break free from the stigma of temporary and contract work in Peer Support?

1 Embrace Flexibility

As a peer support worker, embracing the flexibility of temporary and contract work can be a potent career strategy. These roles often allow you to work in diverse settings, with different client groups, and on varied issues within the mental health field. This breadth of experience can make you a more well-rounded professional. Highlighting this diversity in your resume and during interviews can help shift the focus from the nature of the employment to the depth of your experience and the breadth of your skill set.

2 Value Learning

Temporary and contract roles in peer support are rich with learning opportunities. Each new position offers a chance to acquire new skills and insights, which can be invaluable in your professional development. Treat each assignment as a learning experience, and be proactive in seeking feedback and reflecting on your practice. This attitude demonstrates to future employers that you are committed to growth and continuous improvement, which are highly valued traits in any field.

3 Network Actively

Networking is a powerful tool for breaking the stigma associated with temporary work. Use each contract or temporary position to connect with colleagues, supervisors, and other professionals in the peer support community. These connections can lead to new opportunities and serve as references that vouch for your skills and work ethic. Networking also allows you to stay informed about industry trends and best practices, further enhancing your professional profile.

4 Showcase Achievements

In peer support, your accomplishments within temporary and contract roles can speak volumes. Document your successes and the positive impact you've had on clients and programs. When discussing your work history, focus on these achievements rather than the duration of your employment. This demonstrates your effectiveness and value as a professional, which can help counter any negative perceptions associated with non-permanent roles.

5 Reframe Perception

Reframing how you perceive temporary and contract work is crucial in overcoming external stigma. View these opportunities as deliberate choices rather than last resorts. By presenting your work history as a series of strategic decisions that have allowed you to develop a diverse skill set, you challenge the notion that such roles are inferior. This perspective can be contagious, influencing how others perceive your career path.

6 Positive Language

Using positive language when discussing your temporary and contract roles can significantly affect how others perceive them. Instead of terms like "just a temp" or "only contract work," use language that highlights your adaptability, such as "flexible professional" or "diverse experience." This subtle shift in language can alter perceptions and help you present your work history confidently and proudly.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?