If you are currently working in a temporary position, or on a contract-based project, with the hope that the position will turn into a full-time job opportunity—you may need to reevaluate your current approach. The tips below will help to improve your chances of going from a contractor, to a full-fledged employee.
1. Perform Your Job Duties As If It Is Your Full-Time Job
If you approach a contract position as though you may only be working there for a few months, you may not be as dedicated to the project as you would be if it were your full-time responsibility. Even if the quality of your work is high, your commitment and dedication to the project may not be where it should be. This means you may not invest as much time in to personalizing the project to ensure that it best represents the company, or that you may not be as motivated to meet or beat your deadlines.
However, if you approach all of your job duties as though this job is your full time position—you are more likely to go the extra mile required to show your temporary employer what you bring to the table.
2. Connect And Engage
Many contract positions allow you to work remotely, which can make it more challenging to truly connect and engage. Even when collaborating on-site, you may be less motivated to socialize with your colleagues—especially since you may only be working with them for a short period of time. However, investing time and energy towards truly connecting and engaging with your colleagues goes a long way in making it feel as though you are already a part of the team—not just a temporary fixture. This means you must participate in networking opportunities, casual conversation—and that you should check-in and communicate with your team and/or project manager on a regular basis.
3. Do Your Homework
Another thing that will help to increase your odds of being kept on as a full-time employee, is to do your homework about the company you are working for. This includes factors such as learning and researching:
Once you learn more about who you are working for, you will be able to apply your knowledge towards your work. For example, when you provide your weekly progress report, you can link how your work supports the company Mission Statement.
Each of the tips above are designed to increase your value. Even if you are not offered a full-time position in the near future, following these tips may place you at the top of the list when a full-time position opens up. Last but not least, do not forget to express that you are interested in staying on full-time.