There are lots of reasons to choose contingent work. With our many years of experience, these are some of the things we’ve learned about the benefits of contract work.
Limited-term contracts can create a sense of work-life balance.
Having set contracts gives you flexibility and control because it lets you choose projects and companies that align with your goals. Don’t like your current job that much? There’s always another contract around the corner.
This can also improve your ability to negotiate your own rates and terms of work, which can help you stay engaged and continue to learn and grow professionally. It also provides a diverse portfolio of work experience, which can be valuable when seeking out new job opportunities.
Contingent work develops your skills and expertise.
There’s always something new to learn with a new contract, which makes it easy to stay up to date with industry trends and best practices. In turn, this can make you a more attractive candidate to prospective employers. Want to try something new but aren’t sure you want to commit? A contract can help you test the waters and see if an industry or position is right for you.
Love to travel?
You never know where you might end up with contract work because you’ve got lots of options. If you’re someone who enjoys new experiences or new locales—or even if you’re just trying to discover someplace special where you’d love to live long-term—contingent work can allow you to explore without sacrificing professional advancement.
Networking
Another major benefit of contingent work is that you can build a substantial network of professional contacts and references, which is invaluable to advancing your career. It can provide exposure to different work cultures and environments, and help you understand where you want to be in the future.
Is it all upside?
While contingent work has many benefits, there can be challenges too. For example, it can be challenging to build strong and lasting relationships with colleagues and clients if you’re constantly tackling new projects and taking new opportunities.
That said, you cover a lot more ground. What you may miss out on in terms of deepening your professional relationships, you will likely make up for by amassing a wide and diverse array of contacts—which is a tremendous asset when you’re looking for an exciting new role that will harness your skills and further your professional goals.
For more information on contingent work, get in touch with one of our Raise hiring advisors.
