What do you do if you want to transition from temporary and contract work to a permanent position?

1 Assess Readiness

Before making any moves, assess your readiness for a permanent role. This involves an honest evaluation of your skills, experiences, and the value you bring to an employer. Consider the responsibilities you've handled in your temporary roles and how they've prepared you for a more stable position. Also, think about your willingness to commit long-term to a company and whether you're prepared to potentially sacrifice some flexibility for the benefits of permanent employment. Using motivational interviewing techniques on yourself can help uncover your true motivations and readiness for this transition.

3 Network Effectively

Effective networking is key to finding permanent employment. Reach out to your existing contacts, including those you've met during your temporary assignments, and let them know about your desire to find a permanent position. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and use social media platforms to connect with potential employers. Remember, networking is not just about asking for a job; it's about building relationships that can lead to opportunities and valuable advice.

4 Interview Strategically

When interviewing for a permanent position, be strategic in how you present your contract experience. Emphasize the diverse skill set you've developed through various assignments and how it makes you adaptable and quick to learn. Use motivational interviewing techniques to communicate effectively, focusing on open-ended questions and reflective listening to build rapport with the interviewer. Show them that your contract background has equipped you with unique insights and a robust professional toolkit.

5 Negotiate Terms

Once you've received a job offer, it's time to negotiate the terms of your employment. This includes salary, benefits, and other aspects like work-life balance and professional development opportunities. Approach negotiations with a clear understanding of your worth and the market rates for the position. Be prepared to articulate how your background as a contract worker makes you a valuable asset to the team and use this to leverage a better offer.

6 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?