How to Find Contract Work in the Social Work Field
Social work involves working with adults, children and families who are experiencing emotional, physical or financial difficulties. It is a rewarding, but challenging career path. If you have other commitments, such as children, you may not want to work on a full-time, permanent basis; otherwise, contract work could perhaps fill a gap in your resume.
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Instructions
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List your requirements. Write down the number of days and hours you want to work, the length of contract you are looking for and the type of employer you would like. Knowing what you are looking for reduces the number of hours spent searching vainly for ill-suited positions.
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Conduct research. Look on job forums and blogs for specialist social work sites. Create a list of top websites and add them to your favorites. Each morning go through the websites to see if any new jobs appear. Remember to tick the contract work button on the search option so the jobs are filtered.
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Contact agencies. Job agencies offer both contract, permanent and temporary work. They already have a relationship with the client, so if your name is advanced as qualified, you may not even need an interview. Typically, contract jobs have immediate start dates and occur because someone is on holiday, on long-term sick or maternity leave. Look for agencies specializing in the social or education sector. Before you can receive a job offer with an agency, you need to register. Typically, this involves completing an application, undertaking a test and giving copies of your documentation, such as proof of identification.
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Contact old employers. Ask your old employers if they have any contract vacancies. If you performed well during your employment, they may find an opening for you, even if no official vacancy exists.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not give up. Finding a job can be a demoralizing process, but if you are persistent, it is only a matter of time.
Ask a recruitment agency to look over your resume. Small changes can make all the difference.
Dress professionally. First impressions do count, so you do not look the part, you are unlikely to get the job.
References
Resources
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