Trial-to-hire positions have gotten a bad rap as the employment equivalent to a tryout. But there are several benefits to sampling your next great career—think of it as “speed dating” for your next employer. We’ll take a closer look at some of the benefits below.
Common Misconceptions About Trial-to-Hire Positions
Some of the misconceptions you might hear about trial-to-hire positions are:
- Workers receive low pay
- Trial-to-hire workers are overworked with menial tasks
- The work environment is unfriendly
- Workers have a difficult time fitting in, or finding their place in the employers “culture”
While this has historically been true for many trial-to-work positions, the job market for employers has changed. Previously, employers had their pick of workers to fill any role. But the new reality is, employers are working harder than ever to find quality trial-to-work candidates. They’re even making big changes to benefits and protections for temps to attract the best talent.
The benefits below will help dispel the outdated notion that trial-to-work positions are undesirable.
Benefit #1: A Huge Boost to Your Professional Development
Ever apply for an entry level position that requires industry experience to be qualified? When you’ve never had a job in your preferred field, or have limited experience, getting a foot in the door can seem impossible.
You could take an internship to gain experience. But the reality is, not many workers can afford to take a low-paying or even unpaid internship.
Here is where trial-to-hire opportunities can help. Even though you lack the experience many employers desire, you’re giving them leeway to see if things will work out as you learn the ropes.
Regardless of whether you stick around, this type of relevant industry experience can go on your resume.
Benefit #2: You Have the Freedom to Choose Your Destiny
While many standard contract roles have probationary periods, it’s not the same as trial-to-hire. When the probation period ends, you’re under the same contract as when it started. That’s good in the case you like your job. But what if you’re ready to move on while your employer wants you to stay?
Employees leaving a standard employment contract need to think very carefully about their decision to leave. Your employer will have invested in you, and your absence will be putting them in a tight spot.
It’s a tricky situation. Leaving the job, you run the risk of burning a bridge, or worse, missing the opportunity for a reference from your former employer.
Alternatively, trial-to-hire gives you far more freedom. If you’ve decided the company isn’t a good fit after the trial period, you can leave. No hard feelings.
Benefit #3: You’ll Have Leverage When the Trial Period Ends
Provided an employer wants to hire you after your trial period, you now have proof you can deliver and perform. And that gives you leverage.
This type of leverage can lead to better pay, benefits, and overall perks. Remember, the employer will want to keep you around if you’ve excelled during the trial period. They don’t want to take a chance on someone else. Use this to your advantage.
Get started with your next great career with Trial-To-Hire
Are you interested in a trial-to-hire position the JobFinders way? We have connections to the best available opportunities that match you with employers that best suit your personality and skill set. Contact us today to find out more.
