Temp position gets short extension - Next move?

[Ron61]

Whenever I had a temp employee come to me for advice on whether to stay or go, it was always the same advice. Go now before the other company changes its mind! Companies love to dangle the “we’d love to hire you full time but we can’t right now” carrot, and far too many good people believe that lie and miss golden opportunities elsewhere.

[kenmtb]

Originally Posted by lchoro

You have two options. One is to approach your present client to see if they'd be interested in hiring you permanently. It would keep you in the present situation in a NARROW MATCH. The other option is to look elsewhere to see if you can get hired where you have a chance to develop a broader skillset.

EDIT: You should also approach your agency about it. If the client hires you at the end of the 2-3 months, they may waive any fee they're owed by the client. I recall that it's typically 2 months of full-time billing for hiring away an employee of a staffing agency, but depends on the contract.

Exactly. I am beginning to look for the next gig right now. The client is in a delicate position of getting unproven software on its feet for the first time. I do not know if there would even be enough work after the application is launched. As it stands, I would have to go with the best long term employment wherever that may be. It is good to at least have the option of leaving an unstable position without hurting your resume.

[lchoro]

Originally Posted by kenmtb

Exactly. I am beginning to look for the next gig right now. The client is in a delicate position of getting unproven software on its feet for the first time. I do not know if there would even be enough work after the application is launched. As it stands, I would have to go with the best long term employment wherever that may be. It is good to at least have the option of leaving an unstable position without hurting your resume.

You can get pigeon-holed contracting since the agencies and clients are always looking for an exact match for new people who can hit the ground running from day one. At least, the contract takes you through the end of the dead period during Xmas for new contracts.

[bobsell]

What does your contract say?

Take a look at your termination clause. Does it require 2 weeks notice? Then give them 2 weeks notice before taking the new job.

Is there a non-compete clause? Make sure the company you're going to work for is not one of their clients. If there is any issue here, obtain a written waiver. Email is sufficient.

Always follow the terms of your contract.