Being a contingent worker (temp for hire)

Finding a full time job is challenging in this economy in spite of all the wonderful news articles informing us of the market rebounds in recent months.  Finding a full time and exciting job is even tougher!  As I peruse job listings in search of my dream job I've come across temporary opportunities.  Now, who would think of taking a short term opportunity that only lasts 3 or 4 months?  I used to think that, but again there are lots of folks with interesting circumstances that would raise their hand in a New York second to be considered for such an opportunity.

I'm one of those folks now.  I love the idea of trying on a company for 3-4 months.  It meets all my basic expectations--it generates a revenue stream and most importantly exposes me to a different industry if not a different world.  Let's face it--no one ever said you had to stay home and wait while the opportunity of your life came by.  Why not have some fun to kill the time before that great opportunity comes by?

But don't go crazy signing up with every temp agency in town.  Interview them---sure they will be interviewing you, but take notice on how they return your phone calls, their preferred mode of communication, and most importantly take note on how they are seen in your industry.  Are they reliable? Are they personable?  All these factors count because this will also predict the success of the temp opportunities they will have for you.

Being in the HR industry I looked around...and just like I wouldn't go to Mexico for a hamburger....or go to Germany for a bowl of spaghetti...I'm not going to sign up with a financial, accounting, or administrative staffing firm for hot HR leads.  I chose HR Solutions.  I loved the people there.  Personable, candid, and very professional.  They found me a couple of assignments, and I'm currently their HR Solution for one of their clients that just experienced a maternity leave in their HR Department. The experience has been delightful so far and I love the time spent while I'm in waiting mode for my dream job.  It helps that I'm doing what I love to do---making the world a better place--one HR activity at a time!

Who said you couldn't have fun while you're waiting for your dream-boat to arrive?