If you have not considered temporary work as a valuable option, you may be surprised at all the perks it has to offer. Whether you’re in between roles, looking to make a transition, or seeking a job that fits into your schedule, temporary work could be the answer!
Here are some of the advantages our BiblioTemps® candidates experience through temporary positions:
- Flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of temporary work is the flexibility, especially for retirees or college students. You can choose a temporary role that works for your schedule and timeline. Many temporary positions are project based and could align perfectly with the short-term needs of your life.
- Networking
According to Cornell University, 80% of jobs are filled through connections and not public job ads[i]. This statistic means that networking could play a significant role in your job search. A temporary position is a fantastic way to meet fellow library workers and expand your contact list. You could gain new professional references or even a future job lead.
- Gain Hands-on Experience
If you have been finding it difficult to get your foot in the door in the library field, a temporary position could be a very helpful stepping-stone. Even though the position is short-term, it will allow you to continue building your skills, gain more hands-on experience, and make you a more competitive candidate for future opportunities.
- Test the Waters
If you’re new to the library field or are looking to make a transition, but are unsure of what direction to go, temporary work is a great option to try out different types of roles and see what you like. You can more easily pivot towards what feels right for you and make more informed decisions.
- Extra Income
If you’re looking to supplement a part-time job, saving for a goal, or finishing your degree, temporary work can help boost your income without having to commit to a long-term position.
- Expand Your Options
Through a temporary job, you may be exposed to a new environment or library service that you hadn’t previously considered. For example, you might have your heart set on public libraries, but you may find yourself in a temporary position in an academic library and discover that you love it. You may be surprised by the new insights and passions you can uncover through temporary work.
- Build Your Confidence
Through trying a variety of roles and developing new skill sets, temporary work can be an amazing opportunity to build your confidence in the library field. Consider reading an interview with one of our BiblioTemps library workers to hear how their temporary placements helped them grow as a library professional and discover their strengths.
We hope you’re feeling inspired to try out temporary work and we encourage you to review the open temporary positions on our job board. If we don’t currently have any open positions that interest you, apply to our Candidate Pool to be considered for future opportunities!
[i] Verywell Mind. 9 Tips to Network Like a Pro and Build Your Inner Circle.