What do you do if your program coordination experience is primarily temporary or contract work?

1 Embrace Variety

Embrace the variety of your contract work as a strength. Each temporary role has exposed you to different industries, organizational cultures, and project types, making you a versatile and adaptable professional. Highlight your ability to quickly learn new systems and integrate into various teams. When discussing your background with potential employers, focus on the diverse skill set you've developed and how it can bring value to their permanent team.

2 Continuous Learning

Continuous learning is crucial in program coordination. Your contract work likely required you to adapt to new environments and pick up skills on the fly. Use this to your advantage by emphasizing your commitment to professional development. Showcase any certifications or training you've completed, and express your eagerness to keep expanding your expertise, which is highly valuable in the ever-evolving field of program management.

3 Networking Focus

Networking should be a central part of your strategy. Use your contract positions as opportunities to build a broad professional network. Connect with colleagues, supervisors, and other industry professionals. These connections can lead to future job opportunities or provide references that vouch for your program coordination skills and work ethic. Remember, a strong network is often the key to unlocking new career paths.

4 Portfolio Building

Build a portfolio that showcases the programs you've coordinated. Include any tangible results or successes from your projects, such as increased efficiency or achieved milestones. This portfolio will serve as concrete evidence of your abilities and make it easier for potential employers to understand the value you can bring to their organization, despite the temporary nature of your past roles.

5 Strategic Positioning

Position yourself strategically in the job market by identifying industries or companies that value the flexibility and broad experience that comes with contract work. Some sectors, like tech startups or non-profit organizations, often seek professionals with diverse backgrounds who can adapt quickly to change. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight how your contract work has prepared you for the dynamic challenges they face.

6 Skill Highlighting

Finally, highlight the specific skills that you've honed through contract work, such as project management, stakeholder communication, or budgeting. These competencies are highly transferable and sought after in permanent program coordination roles. Make sure to articulate how these skills have been sharpened by your experiences in various temporary positions and how they can contribute to a potential employer's objectives.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?