What do you do if you want to boost your HR career through temporary and contract work?

2 Market Skills

To thrive in temporary and contract HR roles, it's essential to effectively market your skills. Highlight your HR expertise, such as knowledge of employment law, talent acquisition, employee relations, or benefits administration. Tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile to showcase projects and achievements that demonstrate your capability to deliver results in a condensed timeframe. Emphasize your adaptability and readiness to hit the ground running, which are key traits employers look for in temporary and contract professionals.

3 Network Actively

Active networking is a cornerstone of finding success in temporary and contract work. Engage with industry professionals, attend HR-related events, and join relevant online forums to make connections. Let your network know you're interested in short-term opportunities, as many positions are filled through personal recommendations. Building strong relationships within the HR community can lead to referrals and insider knowledge about upcoming projects that align with your career goals.

4 Choose Right Roles

Selecting the right temporary or contract roles is vital for career advancement. Look for positions that challenge you, introduce you to new industries, or offer the chance to work on innovative HR projects. Be selective and consider the potential of each role to enhance your skill set or provide valuable experience. Remember, the goal is to accumulate diverse experiences that will make you a more versatile and attractive candidate for future permanent HR positions.

5 Deliver Value

Once you secure a temporary or contract role, focus on delivering value from day one. Demonstrate your HR expertise by providing solutions, improving processes, or enhancing the employee experience. Employers appreciate temps who can make a significant impact quickly. Your performance in these roles can lead to extended contracts, return engagements, or even permanent offers. Plus, the positive impression you leave will expand your professional reputation and could result in glowing recommendations.

6 Reflect & Learn

After completing each temporary or contract assignment, take time to reflect on what you learned and how it contributes to your HR career. Update your resume with new skills and accomplishments. Assess the challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as these experiences are valuable learning opportunities. This reflection not only prepares you for future interviews but also helps you identify areas for further development, keeping you on a path of continuous career progression in HR.