There is no doubt that job searching is hard work. For some it can be an arduous process and it’s not uncommon for us to meet people who have been searching for six or twelve months without success. For those who have been looking for a permanent ongoing position only… consider a short-term option.

Whether it’s consulting, contracting, a fixed-term engagement or a casual appointment, thinking short-term will often open more doors than solely focusing on a full-time ongoing role without deviation and consideration for other options. Consider the following types of employment that Think Talent are currently recruiting for:

Contracting – typically on a daily rate, contractors are not just ‘skills for hire’ but often required to complete outcomes-focused projects that fall outside of BAU activity. When organisations are at capacity, navigating through change, or simply increasing output for a short period of time, a daily rate contractor is the first consideration for our clients on many occasions (being available immediately also helps).

Fixed-term contracts – I do a vast amount of work in seasonal industry sectors (sports, events, tourism, etc) where there are major peaks and troughs for when talent is required. Fixed-term contracts allow an element of security with an end date given for completion.

Consulting – for many, especially those with healthy networks, consulting is a great way to approach your familiar connections and offer your skills, knowledge, and experience for short-term appointments. I’ve seen many great candidates transition to consulting which allows flexibility and an opportunity to make decisions to work with organisations on agreed terms.

So, how do you ready yourself for a short-term appointment?

Firstly, think about impact. What are you capable and comfortable doing that can have an immediate impact? Think about skills, systems, strategies, and in particular, the functional outputs of a role that you can be accountable for.

Secondly, position yourself in such a way that will add value to the organisation. Short-term appointments are typically removed from investment into career succession planning, training and development due to the tenure of the role. If you can articulate how you will solve problems and create solutions coupled with your skills, knowledge and experience, you are well on the way to creating a value proposition.

Short-term appointments will offer an organisation an opportunity to see you in action. ‘Temp to Perm’ appointments are common, as are contract extensions and referrals from stakeholders to other projects. Making hay while the sun shines can go a long way to creating your own longer-term opportunities.

Think Talent consistently recruits for short-term appointments across a variety of roles and industry sectors. For current opportunities please visit http://thinktalent.com.au/careers/ or feel free to make contact with me to discuss some options.