Here's how you can navigate job security in the Economics industry through temporary and contract work.

Early in my Economics career, I underestimated the value of flexibility, focusing solely on securing a permanent role. However, taking a temporary contract at a consulting firm changed my perspective. I worked on diverse projects, from analyzing economic trends for a government agency to developing market strategies for a startup. This variety not only kept my work interesting but also helped me develop a broad skill set and adaptability. These experiences made me a valuable asset to employers, leading to more opportunities and eventually a perfect full-time position. Embracing flexibility was crucial in building my versatile and resilient career.

To secure job security in the economics industry through temporary and contract work, take a proactive approach to networking, skill development, and career management. Build a strong professional network, stay flexible and adaptable, demonstrate value and expertise, seek continuous learning, expand your skill set, manage finances effectively, stay connected with recruiters and agencies, network with peers and colleagues, be proactive in seeking opportunities, and maintain a positive attitude and persistence. By doing so, you can position yourself for long-term success and career advancement in the economics industry.

I believe it's all about the value that you can extract from your temporary or contractual job in this field. If you learned and adopted something new during that job, it will definitely increase your chances of securing your next job in the economics field given the additional value that you can contribute to your next employer.

Track Contracts and Applications: Keep a record of all your contracts, applications, and interactions with potential employers. Use tools like spreadsheets or project management software to stay organized. Set Goals: Set clear, achievable goals for your career. This can include the number of contracts you aim to secure each year, specific skills you want to develop, or particular organizations you want to work with. Enhance Your Online Presence Professional Website: Create a professional website to showcase your portfolio, resume, and any publications or presentations. This can serve as an online resume and help potential employers find you.

LinkedIn is one of the networking platforms that aspiring economists can utilise and obviously networking events will also help to expand a person's networking as you may never know that one may come across a person who can be that enabler to aim for your next ideal job / employer as an economist.

Always keep up with the latest key economic news around the globe and think about how it is inter-related with other aspects of the global cog machine. You may even use writing as a way of enhancing your thought process and refine it over time as you gain new skills either through workshops or other means of upskilling.