Business torrents

Contract work and temporary employment are on the rise as the economy improves, especially for companies that need to meet increased demand but are hesitant to commit to permanent employees.

Working a temp job can be a great opportunity to keep skills current and make new contacts while continuing to look for permanent employment. But those seeking to turn these positions into full-time jobs need to be cautious, says Tim Schoonover, chairman of career consulting firm OI Partners.

"There are often no guarantees and no promises that they will be hired full time even if suitable openings arise," Schoonover said. "The downside of contract work is there is the possibility that it can detract from a regular job search and create false hope about a full-time job."

OI Partners offers this advice:

— Ask up front if you can apply for full-time openings that arise during your contract period.

— Aim to outperform full-time employees who are doing the same or similar jobs as you.

— Be positive and upbeat about your commitment to the company, and act as if you already are a full-time employee.

— Meet as many key people as you can. Sit in on staff meetings and let it be known what you are doing for the organization, as well as your background, experience and accomplishments.

— Keep in contact with people who recruit for the company, as well as employees in other departments.

MOVING TO THE BIG CITY

You’ve just graduated from college and are ready to settle down, find a job and start a new chapter of your life. Now you just need to grab a map, close your eyes and drop your finger.

Not so fast. For new grads feeling the pressure of deciding where to live after college, Apartments.com and CareerRookie.com have released a list of the top 10 cities for young adults. The roster is based on the inventory of jobs requiring less than one year of experience, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment and the highest concentration of young adults between the ages of 20 and 24.

"Finding an affordable apartment and a good job may determine where to live, but it’s also important to look at cities offering the culture and lifestyle these young adults enjoy," said Tammy Kotula, spokeswoman for Apartments.com.

The list, including average rent for a one-bedroom apartment:

1. Atlanta, $723

2. Phoenix, $669

3. Denver, $779

4. Dallas, $740

5. Boston, $1,275

6. Philadelphia, $938

7. New York, $1,366

8. Cincinnati, $613

9. Baltimore, $1,041

10. Los Angeles, $1,319

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