Q: I’ve worked as a contractor for 6 months. My job is very satisfying and I really like my team. And even though we don’t get all the perks of regular employees, it’s okay because we have fewer pressures and more freedom. My only issue is that whenever budgets get tight, contractors start dropping like flies. So regardless of how indispensable I feel, I know the “bottom line” will always make me vulnerable. Should I just enjoy my job while looking for another opportunity? Will job hunting so soon make me look like I can’t keep a job?
A: You’re absolutely right. Contract workers are understandably more vulnerable than regular employees when budgetary pressures force companies to cut costs and lay off staff.
So yes, I think you should be looking, or at the very least you should know exactly what’s out there, what opportunities exist (or don’t exist), and what’s available.
You could also discreetly find out whether it’s okay for you to apply directly to the company after a waiting period (usually 6-12 months), or if it’s completely prohibited.
I wouldn’t worry too much about whether “looking for another job so soon will make me look like I can’t keep a job” because you are not looking for another “contract” job. You’d be applying for a regular position, not because you can’t keep a contract job (you’re still there), but because you would much rather have a regular job with more benefits and stability. I think that any recruiter considering you for a regular job would understand that logic, and not hold it against you.
Even if you were currently thrilled in your job, I always recommend being in charge of your own career and future prospects. This means staying connected with peers, maintaining your network, staying current in your field, attending meetings and such.
Apparently most employees are doing just that. According to Careerbuilder research, 74% of respondents are either actively searching for a new job or open to new opportunities. Another 69% said that looking for new opportunities is part of their “regular routine”. For millenials make that a whopping 79%! Looks like this is the new normal.
© Copyright Eva Del Rio
