Talent today, especially in high-demand areas like tech and engineering, can often feel like they have their pick of opportunities. And while your skills are most certainly in demand, it can actually be very overwhelming to have too many options. Who’d have thought?
Chief among the considerations that need to be made when it comes to job options is whether to pursue contract or full-time opportunities. This is especially true in STEM. There is a range of both full-time and contract opportunities available in all locations, with companies across every industry and size.
So how do you know which option is right for you?
Here are some of the core differences between full-time and contract opportunities. Consider using them as a guideline to determine what’s most important for you in a potential career opportunity.
Why choose full-time job opportunities?
In our daily conversations with candidates of many backgrounds across the country, these are some of the more common reasons they choose full-time job opportunities:
Stability
Whether it’s because you have a family to support or that you simply like knowing where and when you’re going every day, full-time opportunities offer stability for those who crave it.
Benefits
Traditional benefits, including health insurance, life insurance, vacation and sick pay, 401k, PTO and more, are still very attractive for many professionals. Depending on your age and personal responsibilities, these “standard” benefits may or may not be a game-changer.
Relationships
There is something to be said for getting to know coworkers over the long haul. Becoming invested in each other and the camaraderie that comes with being part of a team.
Growth
Depending on the size of your full-time employer, there is likely ample opportunity for growth and promotions down the line. If you’re looking to “climb the corporate ladder,” you’ll most likely need full-time opportunities to do so.
What makes contract job opportunities attractive?
While many professionals still find full-time opportunities attractive, the desirability of contract job opportunities has increased substantially in recent years. The trend shows no signs of slowing down! So what makes contract job opportunities so attractive? Here are just a few reasons:
Freedom
At the end of the day, the freedom of choosing where and when you’d like to work is very attractive to some professionals. Although you have traditional “bosses” on assignments, and if you have clients, they become your “bosses,” you still can largely determine when you’d like to take time off, travel and more — the epitome of freedom.
Income
Contractors frequently earn a higher hourly rate than full-time opportunities. There are a few reasons for this, including the lack of benefits and other expenses that add up for employers and the short-term, high-skilled nature of many contract opportunities.
Excitement
Many professionals find excitement in working on different projects and using different skill sets. With contract opportunities, you can find opportunities to grow, expand and use your skills in a variety of areas. Then, pivot to another area of specialty or industry.
The best way to find full-time AND contract opportunities
Whether you’re looking for the stability and benefits of full-time jobs or the freedom and excitement of contract roles, it’s easier to find your ideal job when you’ve got a trusted partner in your corner. Here at Matlen Silver, we work with a range of organizations across the country. Large and small. Startups and 100-year businesses. In a range of industries. Whether you have a clear idea of what you want or you want to try out a few things, we are here to help you.
Search our current job opportunities or contact us to introduce yourself and get started.
