New York Times Says Temporary is the New Permanent

Some fascinating statistics about the temporary work industry appeared in yesterday’s New York Times:

• 80% of the 50,000 new jobs added in November were temporary jobs*
• 26% of 1.17 million new jobs created this year were temp jobs*

*New York Times article

The amount of temporary jobs being created in comparison to new permanent jobs is unprecedented, especially coming out of a recession. Furthermore, experts say that the trend may be permanent.

While these numbers and facts seem to be discouraging for many, I have always been an optimist and like to look at the positive side of things.  The times are changing and we need to change with them.

The Temporary Work Trend

Adding more and more temporary jobs seems to be a trend that is not going away.  The world is changing, the way we work is changing and that is why we need to change with the world.

The World is Changing

• Communication tools are in abundance
• Outsourcing is getting easier each day
• Individuals can compete online with large corporations
• The playing field is being leveled and companies need to stay competitive to get ahead
• Too many people are unemployed and competing for too few permanent jobs
• To stay competitive, companies are choosing to hire temps

With this in mind, it makes sense to change with the times and learn how to make the most out of being a temp.  Temping is often looked at as the second class of workers but once again, times are changing and smart temps can change that.

Advantages of temping

• Temps are often paid more per hour since their employers don’t have to pay for their benefits and other expenses.
• Temps can create their own availability and make their own schedule.
• Temps can move around the country and work wherever they end up.
• Temps can work for many different employers on many different projects.
• Temps can try out different industries.

There are many more advantages to temps which I am going to save and elaborate on in future posts.  I am not saying that being a temporary worker is easy or that anyone deciding to be a temp can take advantage of all the bullet points above.  I am saying that the times are changing and that this is an exciting time for workers who love change and are willing to adapt.

If you’re ready to become a temp and make the most of it, subscribe to this blog through rss or email and we’ll start the journey together.