We all know somebody who either has been, or is about to be, made redundant – unfortunately, nobody is immune writes Chimene Felton of Mercia Recruitment.

Many candidates  at our agency have been ‘victims’ of redundancy and would much rather adapt by decreasing outgoing costs and finding temporary work than registering for unemployment benefits.

Temporary work, either on a full or part-time basis can be a good way of keeping motivated as well as avoiding an ugly gap on your CV.

Many excellent job-seekers are ready and available for work and, whether it’s on a temporary or permanent basis, they want and need to continue to feel useful within the community.

From a potential employer’s point of view, these candidates offer fantastic value for money – not to mention a positive approach and a willingness and desire to get back into work.

Clients are sometimes a little unnerved when they’ve asked for a temporary filing clerk, or a data entry person and we send them a recently redundant buyer, secretary or an accountant.

But, if the role is only short term, then why let their background cloud your decision on who to hire? If they are capable, keen and willing to do the job then it’s a win-win situation.

You never know, they might also be able to help out in other areas for you and offer additional advice and support that you weren’t expecting.

Realistically, the chances of them being interested in undertaking this type of role long-term is pretty remote, but in the short-term they are certainly prepared to commit themselves.

It’s often said that finding a job is easier when you’re already working which is why people are keen to keep doing so, regardless of the level.

Undertaking temporary work as a stop gap is just what’s needed to help keep people motivated and ‘work ready’ until a more suitable permanent position comes along.

If they manage their time well, they should be able to strike a good balance between earning money and career planning as they hunt for a more permanent role.

That said, some candidates are sometimes genuinely looking to take a step back from the level that they were working at previously.

They may not want the stress any more, but are keen and happy to undertake work at a less senior level – all they need is the opportunity.

Reproduced from the Mercia Recruitment blog with kind permission.