What do you do if your availability and skills aren't reaching temporary and contract work agencies?

1 Refine Resume

Your resume is often the first impression you make on an agency, so it must reflect your skills and availability accurately. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the types of roles you're seeking. Ensure it's formatted cleanly and professionally, with clear headings and bullet points for easy reading. If your availability is flexible, state this prominently. Use action words to describe your accomplishments, showing how your skills have had a tangible impact in previous roles.

2 Elevate Skills

If your current skill set isn't making the cut, consider upskilling or reskilling. Look at job postings and agency requirements to identify in-demand skills within your field. There are numerous online courses and certifications that can help you acquire new skills or polish existing ones. Furthermore, volunteering or freelance work can also serve as a platform to learn and demonstrate new competencies. Remember, continuous learning and adaptability are highly valued in the dynamic landscape of contract work.

4 Communicate Clearly

When you have the opportunity to interact with agency representatives, clear and effective communication can set you apart. Express your enthusiasm for temporary or contract work and articulate how your skills and experiences align with what they're looking for. Be concise, professional, and positive in your communications, whether via email, phone, or in person. If you've had a change in availability, make sure to update the agencies you've been in touch with.

5 Seek Feedback

If you've been passed over by agencies, don't be afraid to ask for feedback. This can provide valuable insights into areas where you may need to improve, whether it's your resume, interview skills, or certain technical competencies. Use this feedback constructively to refine your approach. Remember that each piece of feedback is an opportunity to learn and grow, bringing you one step closer to securing the contract work you desire.

6 Adjust Expectations

Lastly, it's important to assess whether your expectations align with the current job market. If you're aiming for roles that are highly competitive or not in demand, consider broadening your scope or targeting different industries. Sometimes, taking a short-term assignment that isn't exactly what you were looking for can lead to more opportunities and valuable experience. Stay flexible and open to different possibilities in the world of temporary and contract work.