Jobs with a fixed term contract are more common than ever before. When reading job adds, fixed term contracts almost seem to be the norm. This is especially ture for fresh graduates.
During your job search, you might be asking the question: should I apply for fixed term positions or should I aim for permanent positions only?
I do realize that you don’t always have the choice to opt for a permanent employment contract. However, let’s list some pros and cons that help you decide whether you should consider a temporary contract.
Pro
Not all permanent jobs are equally permanent anyway
If you are looking for safety and stability, preferring a permanent employment contract makes sense. However, don’t make the mistake of just looking for the type of contract when selecting a job.
The type of work and the even more the type of company or organization is more important in this respect. For example, there is no permanent job within a startup company.
Fixed term contracts often end in permanent contracts
Very often, your fixed term contract will be permed eventually. Thus, fixed term contracts are a very good step on the way to your permanent contract.
The job search can take longer if you exclude fixed term contracts
If you exclude all jobs that come with a fixed term contract, you might miss many great opportunities. Besides, the job search may take much longer. So, be open to fixed term positions.
Con
Benefits might differ
In some companies, certain benefits are only available to employees with a permanent contract. If you have a fixed term contract only, you might miss out.
You might find yourself in a difficult position come unforeseen circumstances
In the case of unforeseen circumstances, you might find yourself in a challenging position with a fixed term contract. Such circumstances could be restructuring or downsizing of the company or long-term sickness.
If push comes to shove, you are in way worse position with a temporary employment contract that with a permanent one.
Fixed term contract often end in more fixed term contracts
As I mentioned earlier, fixed term contracts often lead to permanent employment. But do not assume this is always the case. It also happens that your fixed term contract is followed with yet another fixed term contract.
Development opportunities might be stinted
Development opportunities for employees with a fixed term contract might not be on a par with the ones for permanent employees. There are also exceptions to this rule. But oftentimes, being a fixed term employee means, that you do not enjoy the long term career coaching or mentoring others receive.