The Part-Time Dream Job

Question:

I have finally landed my "dream job!” However, it is only part-time and no benefits. What recommendations/suggestions do you have regarding pursuit of another full-time job with benefits, while my dream job becomes full time?

Answer:

Congratulations! What an accomplishment!

First, you’ll want to assess the likelihood of your part-time dream job going full time within a reasonable timeframe. Will you be able to wait that long? If not, do you want to look for a similar full-time job? Or do you just want to supplement the dream job with an additional part-time job?

One option for a supplemental job is to do freelance projects for a variety of companies online. For instance, Upwork.com offers many project-based short-term jobs that might fill the bill. People post jobs they want done, with an estimate of how long it will take, and what they’re willing to pay. Freelancers bid on the jobs, and Upwork handles the payment when the job is complete.

If you won’t be able to wait around for the dream job, the usual advice applies: activate your network immediately; research companies; update your resume, customizing it for every job you send it out for; brush up your interviewing skills, including a Professional Practice Interview.

One more thought: dream jobs are hard to come by. Assess the situation carefully, but if it’s feasible to hold on for the full-time version (with or without taking other work), it might be better than taking a full-time job that gives you less satisfaction. Only you can make that decision.