Making the leap from part time to full time

From part time to full time: How do you make the leap? Gaining full time work can be a challenge if you’ve only ever held a part time or casual job.

You might find yourself competing with others who have more experience in full time positions. The good news is you can highlight the skills you’ve gained from a part time or casual job to land a full time one. Here are some ways you can show your employer that you are the right person for a full time role.

Let them know 

Make sure you express your interest in any full time positions that come up or might come up in future. Your employer will notice your enthusiasm in taking on more responsibilities.

Be reliable

Always show up on time for work and cover shifts for others when you can. Try to be available as much as possible too. You will become the first person your employer calls when they need someone to work an extra shift.

Work hard

Remember there is never ‘nothing to do’, even if you’ve completed your assigned tasks for the day. Ask your supervisor if there is anything else they would like you to do or ask your workmates if they need a hand. If they're not around, ask yourself 'if this were my business, what would I want done?'

Highlight your abilities

Demonstrate to your employer how much you have committed yourself to learning and why you are now ready to take on more responsibilities. Highlight the people and management skills you have gained. 

If you have been a carer or student while you’ve worked part time, this shows an ability to manage competing priorities and is a valuable skill in full time work.

Act like you’re in a full time role

Treat your current position as if it were a permanent full time position and work hard. This will help you stand out from the crowd and if a full time position comes up you’ll be the first person the employer considers for the role.

If a permanent job is what you want then don’t give up. Stay positive, keep at it and eventually you’ll get the role you want.