Part-time work can lead to full-time post
| • | New graduates prepare to hunt for jobs |
By Carol Kleiman
Chicago Tribune
If you can't get the full-time job you want or if you want to kick-start your career, get a part-time job.
"It's a strategic move today because part-time work enables you, while working, to continue your job search or education," said Laurie Rosen, career consultant specializing in senior-level employees.
"Part-time work is hard to come by, but today, full-time is harder," said Rosen. "Part-time gives you a foot in the door and may result in a full-time position — either one offered by the company or in response to one you see posted.
"Do that part-time job to the best of your ability and don't moan and groan that it's beneath you. Volunteer to do anything and everything. Be visible. When you finish your work, go around and ask if anyone needs any help.
"And remember that, once inside, you must let it be known you're looking for full-time work."
Taking a part-time job often melds with a company's hiring strategy.
"Many businesses are trying before they're buying — they're only hiring people on a part-time or project basis, which gives them a chance to evaluate the potential employee before they offer a full-time job," said Rosen.
"Working part-time is an in — and in today's job environment, if there's anything you can do to keep your skills current and bring in income, you should do it."
That's exactly what Addie Schroeder did. And today, she's a full-time sales representative at United Parcel Service Inc., headquartered in Atlanta.
Schroeder, 22, who is based in Lenexa, Kan., took a part-time job at UPS in 2001 when she was a college senior. "I liked the company and knew they had full benefits and tuition reimbursement even for part-timers, which was good for me and my family," she said.
In January, she was promoted to the full-time job of working with small businesses to get new clients. Make that part-time job work for you, Schroeder advises.
