Centred Content
Centred Content
Dear Joanna,
I’m on a three-month contract working as a part-time kitchen assistant at a local catering company. My contract ends in a month and I really don’t want to be unemployed again. I have been applying to job at similar companies. I lucked out and have a job interview for the same position with restaurant. I feel guilty as I really enjoy my current job and team. If I were to actually be offered another job, do you think it’s okay to leave prior to the end of my contract or should I stay till the end date?
Signed: Concerned Contractor (CC)
Good for you for continuing your job search before your contract ends. I would also consider the following strategies based on the feedback from our employers:
1. Communicate.
With only one month till the contract ends, I would request a meeting with your boss as soon as possible. It’s a great time to ask the big question – could the three-month contract lead to long term, permanent employment? If yes, I would ask for something in writing and get more details. I would also express my enjoyment of working with the team and that you have developed a great rapport with everyone. Reiterate your interest in staying at the company and growing your career there. Listen to the manager’s response. This will determine your next step. Do not share at this time if you have a job offer.
2. Get feedback from your boss.
Have you asked for or received any feedback from your manager on your performance – what you are doing well and what can you improve/learn over the past two-months? If you had not had a performance review, I would ask to meet with the manager and
discuss your performance. Find out if there is any education or training that would be worthwhile for you to learn to enhance your value at the business and for your career growth. For example, the Food Handling Certificate, WHIMS, etc). This feedback is critical for you to know in order to determine your next steps with your job search.
3. Continue your job search.
Until you have a guarantee in writing from your current employer that your contract is extended or that you will transition into a long term employee, attend ALL job interviews and continue your job search. If you do get a job offer, speak with your current manager and be very transparent about what is going on. Legally you have to give only two weeks’ notice. Depending on your relationship with the manager, and on the other employer, it might be a good idea to offer to stay until they find a replacement.
4. References.
It might be a good idea to find other references other than your current manager unless he or she has offered to do this. Consider other co-workers and bosses from former employment and volunteer placements. It could be risky to use your current manager as a reference especially if you are leaving before your contract ends. On the other hand, if you have a good rapport with the manager, double check if it’s okay to use him or her as a reference when you start looking for other work. Depending on their response, I might also find out if they can give you tips regarding employment after your contract is over or possibly refer you to other law firms who might be hiring.
Joanna
employment@reena.org