Benefits of Working Part-Time
A part-time job involves working less than the normal time in an establishment. This form of work is popular among students, full-time parents, or people who thrive on flexibility. Part-time jobs have a set number of hours or days an employee would put in. Some people see a part-time career as lacking when compared to a full-time one maybe because they think it does not imply having a role or position with status. But there is really no difference between the two except in work hours and pay. Responsibilities and every other facet of work-life remain the same. The good news is that with the changes our 21st-century world is bringing, more and more companies and organizations are embracing flexible work styles like part-time. Are you considering taking a part-time job? If so, you might be wondering if there are benefits. This article has compiled a list of the perks of working part-time.
- Time to Pursue other Interests: Working lesser hours makes it easier for one to pursue other endeavors like completing an academic course or performing other activities outside of the normal duties of the job like volunteering or hobbies like painting and writing. Some people have acquired a degree or opened and managed a business while working part-time. Part-time jobs provide time to explore more than one job opportunity and even do something you love.
- Flexibility: This could be the biggest perk of a part-time job. Unlike a full-time job with permanently fixed work days and hours (except there is a holiday), in some part-time jobs, you can schedule your time or choose the days and hours you will be coming in with your employer especially if you are a student taking classes.
- A Healthy Work-Life Balance: For employees who find it hard to balance the pressure of work and family, a part-time job is a good option. It provides more time to spend with family, care for a sick family member, take care of children or even relax by traveling or vacationing. Working new mothers will find it easier to take care of their babies if their work hours are reduced to part-time. People who want to focus on their families find part-time work very helpful.
- A Chance to Earn More Money: Some part-time workers juggle two or more jobs to increase their financial earnings. The upside is that one can work more than one job, let us say 30 hours a week, 15 per one job, and still have more time left when compared to a 9-5 full-time worker that gives 40 hours a week to one job.
- Healthier Life: With lesser hours being put in at work, part-time workers have more time to take care of their health. They are able to work at a pace that suits them best. They do not work under stress-inducing and time demanding full-time jobs. Part-time work also provides a good opportunity for people with limiting physical or mental health issues or even specially-abled ones to earn their keep. They will be able to attend to their body demands while still doing the best they can.
- Work Experience and Network: For students, future, and active job seekers, a part-time job is a good way to gain skills, experience, and referrals even if they plan to move on to a full-time job later on in the future. Working part-time is also an opportunity to learn responsibility and practice finding and keeping a job. If you are out of work or searching for a big break, a part-time job gives you time to job hunt while keeping you gainfully employed so you do not have a gap in employment. With a part-time job, you have more time to work on your CV and cover letter, prepare and write recruitment tests and also prepare and attend interviews without encroaching on the time of your present job or feeling guilty about your plans of leaving.
Work experience gained at a part-time job is not inconsequential and can be listed on a CV. Time spent at a part-time job can be an opportunity to network and open doors for bigger opportunities. If you find yourself at a part-time job, try to build useful connections with your bosses and colleagues. It may come in handy. Another plus is that some employers give an offer for full-time employment or a better position to part-time workers if they do well because they believe that they already know the company culture and the tasks and responsibilities required.
- Time Management Skills: Instead of dictating what you do with your life or restricting you to a routine like a 9-5, a part-time job lets you arrange your hours and then carry out your tasks within the allocated time. Knowing that you have a set time to finish your tasks will move you to finish them before your work hours are up. This helps you learn to manage your time wisely by working within a time frame and possibly moving on to something else.
Final Thoughts
No style of work is entirely free of disadvantages, none is perfect. But if you are considering taking a part-time job, going through the pros and cons will help you decide. Check to see if it fits your lifestyle, goals, and plans for the present and future. Remember that working lesser hours than normal is not a free ticket to slacking off. Your employers will expect you to give in your all and work diligently regardless of how many hours you are working. Also bear in mind that what you do with your extra time is left for you to decide. So try to make the most of it so you do not lose out on any ground. If you decide to take a part-time job, do not hesitate to use the benefits to your advantage as you grow your career.
