Tag Archive for: switching careers

Is a Contract Position Right For You?

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Contract work has become increasingly popular amongst early career professionals. Due to increased difficulty in finding a role that matches their degree, many are turning to temporary work because of it’s flexbility and practacality. But is contract work the right choice for your career?

Contract positions are short-term roles that typically range from a few months to a year. However, many employers offer the possibility of transitioning into a full time role for good performance. One of the primary benefits of contract positions is flexibility — they allow you to gain experience in diverse industries, build new skills, and expand your professional network. Understanding the benefits of contract work can help you make an informed decision about your next career move.

Here are 5 benefits of contract work:

1. Try a New Role

Contract work provides an excellent opportunity to explore different career paths without making a long-term commitment. You can test out new industries, work environments, and job responsibilities to see what truly fits your interests and skills. This trial period allows you to gain firsthand experience in roles you might be curious about but hesitant to pursue permanently.

Many professionals use temporary work as a stepping stone to discover their true calling. You might find that a role you never considered becomes your passion, or you could confirm that a particular field isn’t right for you. Either way, contract positions give you valuable insight into different career options without the pressure of a permanent decision.

2. Gain Experience

Temporary work helps you gain experience in your choosen field while learning new skills. This can be important for landing your next role or transitioning to a new industry. These roles expose you to diverse tasks and environments, helping you develop critical skills that employers value. Contract positions also allow you to explore new roles, industries, and work cultures without a long-term commitment, giving you insight into what truly aligns with your career aspirations. Contract work helps you break in to a new industry, demonstrate your abilities, discover your passions.

3. High Earnings

Contract roles can be a smart way for job seekers to boost their income quickly. Because companies often need specialized skills on a short-term basis, they’re willing to pay a premium for contract workers who can hit the ground running. In many cases, hourly rates for contract positions are significantly higher than those for permanent roles—especially in industries like skilled trades and light industrial work. Without the long-term commitment of a full-time hire, businesses can offer more competitive pay, and for job seekers, that means the chance to earn more in less time while gaining valuable experience across a variety of companies.

4. Fill Resume Gap

An ideal solution for addressing employment gaps that might concern potential employers is contract positions. Rather than having unexplained periods of unemployment, you can use temporary work to maintain continuous employment history while searching for the right opportunity.

These positions demonstrate to future employers that you remained active and engaged in your field during transition periods. Contract work shows initiative and adaptability, qualities that hiring managers value highly. It also provides recent references and keeps your skills sharp, making you a stronger candidate when permanent opportunities arise.

5. Increased Flexibility

Contigent positions offer unparalleled flexibility, enabling you to take control of your career path. It allows you to select projects that align with your interests and strengths, offering the chance to tailor your workload to fit your personal and professional goals. Additionally, it provides the freedom to explore various industries and roles, helping you gain diverse experiences while finding what resonates most with your career aspirations. This adaptability empowers you to grow and thrive on your own terms.

Take the Next Step in Your Career Journey

Temporary opportunities offers numerous advantages that can accelerate your career growth and increase your earning potential. From gaining diverse experience to enjoying greater flexibility, temporary positions provide opportunities that traditional employment often cannot match.

If you’re interesting in beginning a contract role, Award Staffing is here to help you find the perfect temporary position. View our newest job opportunities to find the best fit for you.

How to Transition to a New Industry and Build the Career You Want

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Switching careers can feel equal parts exciting and intimidating. Whether you’re chasing a passion, hoping for better pay and benefits, or seeking a role that aligns with your values, transitioning to a new industry is often the best way to achieve your goals. But it’s also a process that comes with unique challenges. With careful planning and thoughtful execution, you can make this leap successfully.

Here are 6 steps to help you transition to a new industry with confidence and purpose:

1. Align Motivations and Goals

Before making any changes, start by clarifying why you want to switch careers. Is it a desire for higher pay? More fulfilling work? A better work-life balance? Understanding your motivations will help you make informed choices throughout the process.

When considering a new career, it’s important to reflect on your goals and aspirations. What are you hoping to achieve in this new path? Think about the type of lifestyle or professional environment you want and whether it aligns with your values. Additionally, consider if there are specific industries or roles you feel passionate about pursuing.

By aligning your goals with your career switch, you’ll not only have clear direction but also the motivation to stay focused through potential challenges.

2. Identify Transferable Skills

Transitioning to a new industry doesn’t mean starting from scratch. One of the most important parts of making this change successfully is recognizing your transferable skills. These are abilities you’ve developed in previous roles that can apply to your new field.

Soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership are essential in any role. Hard skills, including inventory analysis, project management, or technical proficiency, showcase specific expertise. Additionally, highlighting achievements that demonstrate your ability to add value can set you apart and strengthen your profile.

3. Skill Development

Once you identify your transferable skills, it’s time to fill in the gaps. Every industry has specific technical knowledge that might require additional learning. Use this opportunity to upskill and show potential employers that you’re serious about making this transition.

Online courses from platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy provide industry-specific certifications to enhance your skills. Workshops or bootcamps are another great option, offering intensive programs that can quickly prepare you for in-demand areas.

If you’re pursuing a role in manufacturing, consider courses on operations, quality control, or equipment maintenance. Attending workshops on machinery operation or safety compliance can also give you hands-on experience and boost your competitiveness. These steps will strengthen your resume and build your confidence for a manufacturing job.

4. Networking

Breaking into a new industry becomes much easier when you have the right connections. Networking is essential to understanding the current hiring landscape, discovering hidden opportunities, and identify challenges.

Reconnect with your existing network by reaching out to former colleagues or mentors who might have valuable connections in your desired field. Joining industry groups is another great way to expand your network—consider attending webinars, events, or workshops specific to the industry you’re targeting. Additionally, consider conducting informational interviews by reaching out to people in your desired role and asking for 15 minutes of their time to learn how they got there. This can provide valuable industry information and potentially even lead to job opportunities.

5. Gain Hands-On Experience

One of the biggest hurdles when switching careers is lack of experience in your new field. But don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to overcome this by starting small. Internships, even if they’re part-time or short-term, can provide valuable exposure and a great starting point for building experience. Freelance projects are another option, allowing you to take on small, project-based gigs to grow your skills and credibility. Additionally, contract work is great for on-the-job training while helping you build relevant experience.

6. Be Prepared to Start Small

When breaking into a new industry, you may need to start at an entry-level or mid-level position—even if you’re coming from a senior role in your previous career. While this can feel like a step back, it’s often a stepping stone to learning the ropes, proving your value, and climbing the ladder again. Keep an open mind and embrace the opportunity to learn and grow. Remember, every experience adds value to your career journey.

Take the Leap with Confidence

Transitioning careers is one of the boldest and most rewarding moves you can make for your professional growth. By clarifying your goals, identifying transferable skills, building new expertise, networking strategically, and gaining experience, you can set yourself up for success.

Every great professional story includes a leap of faith, and this is yours. Remember, it’s not about the speed of the transition but the quality of the effort you put into the process. If you’re ready to make this leap, check out our job opportunities and start the career you want.

Is a Career in Manufacturing Right for You?

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When it comes to choosing a career, there are a multitude of options. From healthcare to education, technology to hospitality, each industry offers its own unique advantages and challenges. One industry that many people may overlook is manufacturing. With the current job market and increasing demand for skilled workers, manufacturing is becoming a more viable option for job seekers.

A survey conducted by WTW found that 53% of employees are open to changing jobs, with 44% having actively searched for a new job in the last quarter. The manufacturing industry is no exception, with a growing number of opportunities for those looking to enter the field.

Here are 6 reasons that a career in manufacturing might be perfect for you:

1. You Have Technical and Analytical Skills

First and foremost, manufacturing requires a certain skill set. While it may seem like a more low-skill industry, the truth is that manufacturing workers need to possess a variety of analytical and technical skills. It’s important for workers to be detail-oriented, have strong problem-solving skills, and can work with complex machinery. In the manufacturing environment, these skills could manifest in the ability to troubleshoot equipment issues, analyze production data for efficiency improvements, and make informed decisions when faced with production challenges. Demonstrating these skills can set a potential employee apart and prove their value in the fast-paced and complex world of manufacturing.

2. You Have Transferable Experience

Hiring Managers look for candidates who have a stable work history and the necessary skills for the position. You’d be surprised that several careers translate well to the manufacturing industry. For example, if you have experience in customer service, you may find that you excel in a manufacturing setting due to your ability to work well with others and deal with customer concerns. Cashiers would be great at mail processing due to their high attention to detail and team-focused mentality. People working in the food industry would be great at order fulfillment because they are task-oriented and can select necessary components. These are just a few examples, but it’s important to consider your own experiences and how they may be valuable in the manufacturing industry.

3. You Want Job Security

Another advantage of a career in manufacturing is job security. With the increasing demand for products and materials, manufacturers are always in need of skilled workers. Additionally, many manufacturing companies provide benefits such as healthcare and retirement plans, which can make for a stable and secure career path. As technology continues to advance, it’s likely that the need for skilled manufacturing workers will only increase, making this industry a valuable one to consider.

Additionally, manufacturing plays a pivotal role in the economy, contributing significantly to GDP and employment. It forms the backbone of any economy, driving growth, enhancing productivity, and fostering innovation. This sector is particularly crucial for providing job security due to its consistent need for skilled labor. The demand for manufactured goods doesn’t wane, even in economic downturns, maintaining a steady need for a diligent workforce. Consequently, a career in manufacturing can offer you a level of job security unmatched in many other fields, making it a compelling choice for those seeking stability and growth in their professional journey.

4. You Work Well in a Team Environment

Working in a customer-facing role demonstrates that you are capable of collaboratively interacting and communicating effectively with a team. This experience, where you often work hand in hand with your colleagues to deliver the best service possible, is a clear testament to your teamwork abilities. Daily interactions with customers help you hone your skills in listening, empathy, and problem-solving, all crucial elements in a manufacturing team setting. Furthermore, dealing with a variety of customer needs and expectations equips you with the adaptability to work alongside diverse team members, contributing positively to team dynamics and overall productivity in the manufacturing environment.

5. You Are Dependable and Reliable

Dependability and reliability are highly valued qualities in the manufacturing industry. The nature of the manufacturing sector demands strict adherence to schedules and precision, which can only be ensured when team members are reliable and dependable. A reliable employee consistently meets their deadlines, is punctual, and is rarely absent, which directly contributes to the smooth operation of the production line. Dependable individuals follow through on their commitments and can handle responsibilities effectively. This combination of traits not only ensures that the manufacturing process stays on track, but also builds trust within the team, leading to a more efficient and harmonious working environment.

6. You Have a Good Attitude

A positive attitude is an essential trait for those aspiring to excel in the manufacturing industry. This sector is characterized by dynamic environments that require resilience, adaptability, and an eagerness to overcome unexpected challenges. Individuals with a positive mindset are more likely to develop creative solutions, embrace new technologies, and work effectively as part of a team. Employers value those who bring a can-do attitude to the workplace and are willing to learn and grow. Remember, a good attitude not only benefits yourself but also makes for a better work environment for everyone. Keep an open mind and maintain a positive outlook, and you’ll be sure to impress potential employers in the manufacturing industry.

Succeeding Together

A career in manufacturing can be a highly rewarding and fulfilling choice for individuals who possess the right skill set and mindset. With its emphasis on precision, innovation, and problem-solving, the manufacturing industry offers a unique blend of job security, benefits, and potential for professional growth. Moreover, the transferable experiences gained in various fields can be seamlessly applied to the manufacturing industry, making it an attractive option for career seekers from diverse backgrounds.

If you are intrigued by the prospects of a career in manufacturing, we invite you to explore our wide range of open positions. Each opportunity presents a chance to contribute to the industry’s growth and find a role that resonates with your passion and ambitions. Don’t miss out on the exciting possibilities that await you in the dynamic world of manufacturing!

7 Signs That You Should Consider a Career Change

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Making a career change can be a daunting prospect. After all, it’s not easy to up and leave a job that you’ve been doing for years, even if it isn’t necessarily one that you’re passionate about. If your work doesn’t get you excited-then it might be time for a change. Additionally, if you’re not excited about work, there are probably other reasons that something is wrong. Are you unhappy, under appreciated or even underpaid? This post will discuss how to identify these issues and how the right position gives you purpose and adds meaning to your life.

Here are 7 signs that you should consider a new career:

1. You’re Unhappy at Work

This is perhaps the most obvious sign that it might be time for a change. If you find yourself dreading going to work every day, it’s probably because you’re not doing something that you love. And that’s okay! It’s perfectly normal to feel like your current job isn’t exactly what you want to be doing for the rest of your life. But if that feeling of unhappiness persists, it might be time to start thinking about making a change.

It’s important to find a job that makes you happy because you’re likely to spend a lot of time doing it! There are a few key sings that indicate that you’re in the wrong job.

  1. Feeling constantly stressed or anxious
  2. Dreading going to work
  3. Don’t feel fulfilled or motivated

When you notice these things about yourself, then you know it’s time to make a career change and ultimately improve your mental and physical wellbeing.

2. You’re Not Challenged Enough

If you’re the type of person who likes to be constantly challenged and pushed to learn new things, then a lack of challenge in your current job can be extremely frustrating. Conversely, if you find yourself feeling bored at work, it might be time to start looking for something new. Signs you’re not being challenged enough include day dreaming, scrolling on your phone, or simply finding yourself with extra time. Additionally, if you’re not being challenged than you’re not learning or growing in your career. It’s important to keep developing your skills and expand your experience to fulfill your goals and get to where you want to be in the future. So, if you’re not being challenged enough, then it could be a sign that you’re not on the right career path and it’s time for you to make a change.

3. You’re Underpaid

Being underpaid can be frustrating, especially if you feel like you’re working hard and not getting recognized for it. If you’re considering a career change, here are a few things to keep in mind. First, take a look at your skills and experience. Are you being paid what you’re worth? If not, it may be time to move on. Secondly, consider your goals. What do you want to achieve in your career? If you’re not being paid what you’re worth, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to reach your full potential in your current role. Finally, think about your happiness. If you’re not being paid what you deserve, it’s unlikely that you’ll be happy in your current position. If any of these things resonate with you, it may be time to start looking for a new career.

4. You’re Underappreciated

If you’re feeling underappreciated at your job, it may be time to explore other options. Starting a new job that values you will ultimately make you a lot happier. By knowing that your contributions are worthwhile, you will feel more fulfilled and purposeful. Remember you are worth more than how your boss or coworkers make you feel. You deserve to be recognized when you put in your time and effort. Go for that new opportunity where your talents and skills will be put to use. Don’t let yourself stay in a situation where you’re not being appreciated- make a change and find a job that values you.

5. You Want More Flexibility or Work-Life Balance

Many people today are looking for more flexibility and work-life balance in their careers. If you find yourself yearning for more time outside of work, or more control over your schedule, those could be signs that it’s time for a change. There are a number of ways to add more flexibility in your life. You might look for a job with a company that offers flexible hours or remote working options. Work from home options are especially popular these days as businesses are looking for ways to add value for their employees. It also provides more flexibility as it lets you choose your own hours. Also consider a night shift position. These positions add a lot more flexibility as you are able to get more done during the day. Whatever route you choose, remember that it’s important to do what’s right for you. Consider your goals and values, and make a decision that will help you lead a happy and fulfilling life.

6. Feeling Disconnected to Company Culture

If you don’t feel like you fit in with your co-workers or your company culture, it might be time to find an organization that is a better match for your values and personality. Feeling like an outsider can make going to work each day feel like a chore, so finding a job where you feel like part of the team can make all the difference. One way to distinguish company culture is by observing the employees that work there. Do they seem happy? A good company culture will foster an environment where employees feel valued and engaged. This will help you feel more motivated and excited about the work you’ll be doing. By taking the time to assess the company culture, you can get a better sense of whether this new position would be right for you. Therefore providing you with fulfillment and greater opportunity.

7. Lack of Support at Work

It can be tough to stay motivated at work, especially if you’re not getting the support you need from your superiors. This is the perfect time to consider a change. A new career can offer opportunities for growth and allow you to use your skills in a more fulfilling way. Look for if they provide regular feedback. Both positive and constructive feedback helps you grow professionally and reflects the progress you’re making. Regular communication means that you’ll be up to date on the latest happenings and know where you’ll be heading in the future. Therefore, this will help you feel more comfortable at work when you’re in the loop.

 

For any reason that you might be looking to change careers, Award Staffing is here to support you! Whether you want to start your career or level up, we can help you find the right position for you. Our goal is to make work meaningful-that gets you excited and motivated. To get started, contact us today or visit our open opportunities.

Self-Study for Job Seekers

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Something that most people don’t do while in pursuit of a new career is ask themselves questions and really make it a study to learn what they want in a job. The majority of the time; people look at pay, how well a company is known, and the title/prestige of a position to determine whether or not they’re going to apply somewhere. While all of those things do need to be taken into consideration, it’s not often that people do a self-assessment to establish what’s best for them outside of those parameters.

Every person is going to need different conditions to be met in order for them to be both happy and successful. It’s often the small things that we experience every day that determine whether or not we can be truly fulfilled in a job over the long term. Whether or not we enjoy what we walk into every day affects our ability to thrive and the amount of time we stay in a position.

Here are some factors to consider to help you assess whether or not a job or company could be a good fit for you.

1. What in your last job did you like and not like?

We all need an income, that’s a given. That’s why in many cases it can be difficult not to just take the first offer that comes your way. However, if you want to sustain your happiness and continue to produce quality work after the thrill of a new position goes away; you must be sure that you’re ok with most things that come along with it. For example, if you know that you couldn’t cope with the strict dress code at your last company, working for another company with a similar policy is probably not the best option.

2. What are you interested in?

What industries and/or what type(s) of projects? While it’s not realistic for every single aspect of a job to be your favorite, there has to be some level of interest. Whether it’s the work you’ll be doing on a daily basis or the line of work you’re involved in, you’ll want to choose something that you’re either interested in learning more about or something you have already been involved in and know you enjoy.

3.What natural proficiencies do you have?

The ability to lead, write, sell, plan…Are you excellent with technology or graphic design? Even if it is something that you have never done before, don’t be intimidated to inquire and apply if you have a knack for something. This is how many people begin working their dream careers. If you write in your spare time and know you enjoy it, why not look into a copywriting or columnist position?

4. What are the key things you can bring to your workplace?

No matter what, it is crucial that you have the opportunity to showcase your abilities and use your talents in your place of work. If you list out all of the things you have brought to past work places, you will likely open yourself up to even more options by having a wider net to cast.

5. What are your top values?

Service, financial stability, free time? Knowing these things about yourself ahead of time and asking about them in the interview process will be of great benefit. If free time is important to you, having a position that requires you take calls at night after you’ve left the office or on weekends is not an option. If your top value is service, you can likely go onto the company’s website and research if there is a cause they contribute to. You could also search specifically for positions in non-profit or sustainability. Values run deep within all of us; if something is important to you, your career choice should be in line with it.

6. Is there a certain environment you know you can’t work well in?

We all thrive in different environments. If you are an extravert and prosper in an environment with a lot of people, an office position with a team of three will not be your best option. If you are an introvert and you know you need your surroundings to be quiet in order to focus, a factory with loud machines is likely not your best bet; even if you do have your own office. Don’t try to convince yourself that you’ll be able to just deal with it. There are plenty of options out there for everyone, no need to get caught up in a scarcity mindset.

7. Does your lifestyle require a certain type of flexibility?

If you have regular doctor appointments or would strongly prefer to be able to be home with your kids more often than not, a job that is partially or entirely remote is a good choice. If you have a very busy schedule and want to be able to go straight from one place to another, (such as from work to the gym to your piano lessons) you likely want one with a lenient dress code so you don’t have to change in between. If you travel a lot, freelance or brand ambassador work may be your answer.

8. Are there any tasks you specifically want or don’t want to perform?

Even if you like your job for the most part, if there are certain things you dread, you likely won’t appreciate it over the long haul. List out all of the things you can’t envision yourself doing and be sure to choose positions where those things are not a requirement. If there are things that you really want to do because maybe you have never had the chance in the past, search specifically for those types of roles.

 

If you are in search of a new job, we at Award Staffing are here to help you find your future! Check out our newest available positions here.

How Successful People Navigate a Job Change

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You’ve decided to change jobs. Good for you, but don’t forget these essential steps to help you on the way.  Now don’t get stressed – it’s not as complicated as it may initially seem if you do the planning and know the necessary measures you need to take to successfully navigate a career change.

Do the Research-

Take some time to research and discover everything you need to accomplish – from education to deadlines and dates which are relevant to your career change. Though this step may seem tedious, it never hurts to be too prepared.

Sign Up for Applicable Education-

Depending on what you’re going to be changing your career to, you may or may not need to go back to school or receive a professional certificate or license. In your research process, you should have been able to find more information about those requirements, so you’ll know if this applies to you or not.

Start Looking for New Jobs-

Even if you’re still in the beginning phases of switching careers, you should start looking for new jobs as soon as possible. The reason for this is because you want to know what the job market is like when you are ready for a new job. Plus, it’ll give you an end goal to accomplish as you start on your new and exciting path.

Finally, contact Award Staffing. We help people make career changes every week. We have offices located in Bloomington, Chaska, Crystal, Delano, Maplewood, and Ramsey Minnesota to help you with your job search today! We will be able to recommend current jobs opportunities for you that would fit in well with your new line of work but also take into account your past career and experiences. Want to learn more career tips and tricks – check our When Work Works blog.