Okay, I'll admit it – I've been guilty of falling for that whole "full-time is always the best option" mentality.

But the more I've worked with job seekers, the more I've seen the light on contracting. There are some seriously cool things about it, especially if you fall into one of these seven categories...

#1 I Need a Job Yesterday

Okay, not literally yesterday, but if you're in a hurry to find work, a contract role could be the way to go.

Here's the deal: full-time hiring is like dating someone with super high standards. There are layers of interviews, reference checks, and soul-searching on both sides.

A contract, on the other hand? It's more like speed dating – they need someone who can do the job fast. It might not be the most glamorous, but having a paycheck coming in sooner rather than later is always a plus.

#2 Work-Life Balance Is My Jam

I've worked with plenty of clients who'd happily trade their fancy office for the freedom to do their thing, on their own time.

Sound familiar?

Contractors often have more control over their schedules. You won't be roped into every fire drill or random meeting (unless it's in your contract's scope, of course).

That's not to say you won't have deadlines, but the flexibility can be a major perk.

#3 Hello, Career Pivot!

Craving a change? Contract work can be a sneaky way to get your foot in the door of a whole new field. Think of it like a trial run.

You might not have all the skills checked off on some full-time job description, but a company might be willing to take a chance on you as a contractor to see what you can do.

I've seen this play out a ton of times with clients I've worked with. You show them you're capable, and suddenly that full-time conversion isn't so far-fetched.

#4 I'm Building a Side Hustle Empire

Want a steady pay check while you also work on launching your dream business? Contracting can be the perfect balance.

Since there's usually less of that full-time "always-on" expectation, you'll have more time and energy to focus on your passion project.

Let's be real, the last thing you want after a full day at the office is to start brainstorming marketing plans.

#5 You're a Specialist with Highly Sought-After Skills

If you have a niche expertise that's in high demand (think cutting-edge tech, complex regulatory knowledge, etc.), contracting lets you capitalize on that.

Companies often need these specialized skills for short-term projects and are willing to pay a premium for them.

Plus, you get to bounce between different companies and industries, keeping things fresh and your skills sharp.

#6 You Want to Explore Before You Commit

Unsure if a specific company culture or industry is a good fit for you? Taking on a contract role is like test-driving a career.

You get to experience the work, the people, and the environment before deciding if you want to make it a long-term thing.

Less risk, more insight – that's a win-win!

#7 You're Craving a Change of Pace (Maybe Semi-Retirement?)

Maybe you've spent years climbing the corporate ladder, or you're inching towards retirement but not quite ready to fully hang up your hat.

Contracting can provide a gradual transition.

You can take on projects that align with your expertise and interests, work a reduced schedule, or try something new without the pressure of a full-time commitment.

It lets you stay professionally engaged while having more control over your time and workload.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

A word of caution, though: contracting isn't all sunshine and rainbows.

Be ready to handle your own health insurance and taxes, plus there's a little less job security.

That said, if you're versatile, it can unlock some seriously awesome opportunities that just wouldn't be possible in a standard full-time role.

Are you struggling with your job search?

I've been in the career services industry for a long time (16+ years as of this newsletter) in a coaching capacity, but also in a recruiting capacity.

Over the course of my career, I've noticed that job seekers struggle with the same areas:

• Building and using a network of contacts to find career opportunities

• Creating a resume that effectively sells your skills and abilities

• Answering those tough interview questions

These also happen to be the pillars of the job search. Fail in any one of them, and your whole job search suffers.

Because of this, I've built a toolbox to people tackle these tough challenges. It has a few really cool resources, including:

• An in-depth resume writing handbook. Covers how to write a solid resume, from top to bottom

• Interview prep guide - never fail another job interview (this will replace a $200/hour interview coach)

• Interview question bank (contains over 100 interview questions to help you prepare)

• 30+ hidden job boards

• A database of 100+ message/email templates you can use for every part of your job search (i.e., reaching out to recruiters for jobs)

If these sound like areas you're struggling with, consider checking it out. While it's not free, it's definitely affordable ($29).

Access it below.