Reasons why Singaporeans should consider contractual working

We present a noteworthy solution to busting a mid-career slump or breaking the salary glass ceiling.

The recruitment scene in Singapore has seen a rapid growth in the number of contract opportunities over the past year. Contracting or temporary hire is now an option many organisations consider while looking at hiring plans. The reasons for these requirements vary across businesses, with the most common being maternity, project hires or expansion.

Companies have even recognised the need to retain temporary staff and some offer a completion bonus at the end of the contract. This is similar to professionals in a permanent role being rewarded for a job well done. With this increased demand, why do so many candidates remain cautious when considering opportunities while planning their next career move?

A common misconception of contracting is that it is not as fruitful as a permanent role, some even consider it the poorer sister. Candidates are also wary of temporary roles causing more harm than good to their CV which will prevent them from securing a permanent role in the future.

However, this cannot be further from the truth, contract roles hold many advantages to those willing to explore a new career opportunity and are immediately available. We outline a few reasons to choose a contracting role:

Upskill Yourself Quickly
Due to the nature of most contract roles, these positions often need to be filled in urgently as a result of a maternity cover, long-term sick leave or sudden resignation. Companies are unable to wait while conducting the long-drawn process of finding their perfect match on a permanent basis.

Therefore, contract roles are offered to ease the burden on existing employees. If a candidate has the key skills required, plus a positive attitude and strong work ethic, other missing qualifications can be overlooked. This enables candidates to learn new skills on the job. At this juncture, maybe even pick up a new system such as SAP or a more effective work process. By taking up this challenge, candidates can quickly add value to their skills sets, and ultimately their resumes.

Expand Your Networks
In the search for the ideal job, sometimes, it’s not what you know but who you know. By taking up contract roles in various industries, you are really improving your network of contacts for future positions. This temporary position could be an opportunity to rub shoulders with senior bosses with an influence on the hiring process.

There may not be an available headcount right away, however you are likely to be remembered if you impressed your employers during the short time with them. There is always the possibility of a role opening up in another team or department. The fact that you have already worked in the position and demonstrated your capabilities will put you ahead of other interested job applicants, i.e. the competition.

Get Your Foot In The Door
Some multinationals entering Singapore only have contract roles in the interim to offer while they set up their office here. By accepting a contract position, you have time to familiarise yourself with a global company, you could have never had the chance to come across.

Organisations new to Singapore often hire contractors with knowledge of the local market and business culture. This is a win-win situation for both parties as such companies need your Singaporean culture expertise as much as you would like to expand your portfolio.

Use This Chance To Razzle Dazzle
Your new employer will not know your capabilities unless you highlight them and this is the perfect opportunity for you.

For example, if you have been brought in as a marketing executive, use the limited time to show off your accounting skills or ability to speak a third language. Extra skills sets which make you stand out from other jobseekers ensure you a better chance at a future permanent role.

The Freedom To Choose
Nobody wants to be stuck in a career rut and in the same company for decades, going through the daily routine. By accepting contract opportunities, you get a taster of a variety of industries and job functions in order to make the best informed decision on which works best for you.

Even if you decide that the position is not a good fit, just make your graceful exit at the end of a contract and no one will question your commitment or loyalty. It was after all, a temporary role.