So you just got offered a contract to hire position, right? Or maybe you’re thinking about applying for one but aren’t quite sure what all it entails. Regardless, you’re in the right place. What is a contract-to-hire job? And what does it mean for your future? We’re covering it all in this blog post. Read on!
Why Employers are Hiring Contract-to-Hire
Contract-to-hire jobs are gaining popularity, especially in the tech world where employers need a bit more time to assess a candidate’s hard skills before extending a full-time offer. To stay competitive, 63% of employers hire contractors into full-time roles. With the high cost of hiring the wrong person, we believe this trend will only continue to grow in popularity.
For positions that require more than an interview to truly assess a candidate’s fit for a position, contract-to-hire can be a fantastic option. This type of arrangement gives companies the time they need to determine whether a particular candidate can meet the job requirements and fit into the company’s culture. Basically, the contract portion of a contract-to-hire position is like a trial run for both the candidate and employer.
What’s In It for Me?
Even the most rigorous interview processes can leave people scratching their heads about whether or not a job or company will be the right fit for them. What if you sign a contract for a full-time position only to realize you hate the work environment, lack respect for your boss, or can’t keep up with the job requirements? A contract-to-hire position eliminates the unknown and gives job seekers a way to test the waters before fully diving in. You always have the power to walk away if the position isn’t what you were expecting.
Aside from the flexibility it provides, contract-to-hire positions typically give contractors the power to negotiate higher salaries at the end of their contract. At this point in your relationship with the employer, both parties understand what they’re getting into. Your boss (hopefully) sees the long-term value you can bring to the company and will feel more confident offering you a higher salary.
What Are the Drawbacks of Contract-to-Hire?
There are two main drawbacks associated with contract-to-hire roles. The first is that you typically won’t be eligible for employee benefits during the contract portion of your relationship. The second is that, of course, there is no guarantee that you will land the full-time position at the end of your contract. We don’t think this should hold you back from applying to contract-to-hire roles. After all, nothing in the business world is guaranteed. If the job sounds exciting to you, go for it! No matter what happens, you’ll have the opportunity to gain great experience and expand your professional network.
What Does it Take to Succeed?
If your goal is to get that full-time position, you’ll need to prove your value to the company from day one. Think of each day throughout your contract as an extension fo the interview. This is the time when your potential employer will be assessing your fit for the position. Show up with enthusiasm, work hard, and prove your value.
Looking for a tech job in the southeast? Explore 3Ci’s database of contract-to-hire jobs and apply today.
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