As one of the top employment agencies in Miami, Future Force knows that for some professionals, working part time simply makes sense, whether they have small children or elderly parents to care for. That’s likely why, according to a Pew Research Study, 47% of married mothers said “part time” was their ideal work situation.
However, just like any other work situation, there are pros and cons that come with part time work. If you’re trying to decide whether it’s right for you, your career goals and your lifestyle, consider the following:
The Pros of Part Time Work
- Less pressure. When you’re working part time, your workload and responsibilities will likely be lighter.
- More flexibility. When you don’t work outside the home as much, you have more time to devote to your children and other responsibilities, such as volunteer work, appointments, and caring for other family members.
- Access to benefits. If you’re working 30 hours a week or more, and depending on the size of your company, they are required to offer you health insurance.
The Cons of Part Time Work
- Lower income. Obviously, if you’re working less hours than a full-time employee, you’re also going to be earning less.
- Fewer benefits. If you aren’t regularly working 30 hours a week, a company isn’t required to offer you health insurance. Also, in many cases, part time workers don’t have access to sick leave or paid vacation.
- Less room for advancement. As a part time employee, you may find yourself overlooked for promotions and other advancement opportunities.
- More risk. When a company hits hard times, part time employees are typically the ones laid off first.
Clearly, if you’re interested in part time work, it’s a decision that needs to be fully thought through before making a move. However, if you’ve decided that it is right for you and your family, how can you secure such a job opportunity?
- Look to your current employer. It’s easiest to switch from a full time job to part time one by staying with your existing employer, where your skills and personality are already known. So look for internal openings with your company, or talk to your boss about cutting back your hours.
- Network. If nothing is available in-house, or you’re not currently employed, network your way to a new job. Reach out to former colleagues, alumni, family, friends, neighbors and anyone else that could potentially help you find the right opportunity. If you’re referred by someone, you’re much more likely to land a job then if you blindly apply.
Need more help finding a job that’s right for you, whether full time, part time, or temporary? Call Future Force. As one of the leading employment agencies in Miami, we can connect you with the top employers – and the top jobs – in and around South Florida. Contact us today or search our Miami jobs now.