Temporary work can be beneficial for some, providing variety and a chance to learn new skills. However, it may not always be financially advantageous and can limit time for job searching. It can also help with mental and emotional wellbeing for those struggling with unemployment.
At first glance, the answer to this question may seem obvious. Any form of paid work, even temporary work, is widely regarded as preferable to long-term unemployment. In some real-world circumstances, however, the benefits of temp work may not outweigh the negatives. Many people find temporary work to be very beneficial, as both the employee and employer understand the temporary nature of the job and there is much less concern about an unexpected layoff or termination. Others may find it little more than a stop-gap exercise, temporarily limiting only the effects of unemployment.
Temporary work is still considered work, which means that an unemployed worker’s performance can be affected by additional income. In certain circumstances, unemployment benefits may be calculated based on your last job, not necessarily your last permanent employer. This means that if a laid-off worker takes a minimum-wage temporary job and then becomes unemployed again, his unemployment benefits can only be based on the lower wages of the temporary position, not the higher wages of the factory job. Some workers may find it more profitable to stay on unemployment than to take temporary work for less money.
There are those who benefit from temporary work, however. Some people get very frustrated while doing the same job tasks over and over again. Working for a temping agency often means taking on several job assignments for short periods of time, thus reducing the chances of boredom or job burnout. For those entering or re-entering the job market, this type of work can help entry-level workers familiarize themselves with an office or factory work environment before seeking more permanent work. Demonstrating a strong work ethic or exceptional aptitude while temporarily employed can help a person stand out if the company decides to hire a permanent employee.
Some laid-off workers may benefit mentally and emotionally by seeking temporary work rather than relying on unemployment benefits. When permanent jobs become scarce, some people become completely discouraged and can spiral into depression. Working a temporary job, no matter how menial the business or how overskilled the worker might be, can help some people avoid feelings of worthlessness or unemployment they may experience as a result of layoffs or layoffs.
For dedicated job seekers, the issue of accepting temporary work can be complicated. Time spent on a temporary assignment is generally time not spent looking for more suitable work. Scheduling a job interview or traveling out of town for a broader job search can prove challenging while working in a temp job. Fortunately, many modern job seekers can take advantage of online job application websites and e-resumes to continue a permanent job search while still working temporarily.
Some people find that temporary work in their field is a good way to learn new skills, which would be very useful when interviewing for a permanent position. Employers generally view any effort to stay active in the field as a benefit. Again, this benefit should be weighed against any potential loss of benefits.
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