If you are a professional that has ever made a major career decision, you know that the consequences of poor planning can be immense. For example, relocating to another state, making a career change, or returning to school, are all major decisions that can have an effect on your income, at least for the short term. Fortunately, a transition job can be a great way to meet certain financial obligations while actively pursuing your long-term goals.

Since every professional’s journey is different, transition jobs will help you stay engaged with the working world and use your time and money more efficiently. Here are four of the most common circumstances where a transition job might be right for you:

1. You’re relocating to another setting

Maybe you just got accepted into a graduate program across the country, or decided to pack up and change locations. In either case, one thing is certain; getting accustomed to a new environment can be both exciting and frightening. On top of this, finding a job to stay afloat while you settle into your new environment can be draining. If you have the chance to secure a job before you relocate, great, however, if you don’t have a form of income in place, a transition job can prove to be a cost-effective solution. You may soon be able to manage your major expenses, while focusing on better long-term solutions to adjust to your new location.

2. You’re changing careers/industries

Whether you’ve found yourself in a rut at your current job, or you’re at a crossroads in your career and want a change, a transition job can help to alleviate the stress that comes with making such a critical decision. For example, starting out in a temporary position in a new industry can serve as a great introduction to the field. It may give you the opportunity to gain an understanding of the different aspects of your new work environment and help you figure out if it is a field you’re truly invested in. Ideally, this type of transition job should allow you to learn the ropes, while building core skills you will need to thrive in the field in the long-run.

3. You’re a recent graduate

In today’s competitive job market, a number of companies will sometimes use work experience as the deciding factor when considering between two prospective candidates. Although this is a common issue recent grads face, many aren’t aware of the employment alternatives available to them. For example, pursuing a temporary assignment can be a great way to gain exposure to different types of employers, company cultures, and/or responsibilities as a recent graduate. While the job doesn’t necessarily have to be in the field you studied, you can use these assignments to build certain in-demand skills employers are in search of to make yourself a more marketable candidate. Most importantly, a temporary assignment has the potential to evolve into a full-time role based on your performance and cultural fit.

4. You’re starting your own business

Since everyone isn’t cut out to work for someone else for their entire career, becoming an entrepreneur has become an attractive career route for many. If this sounds like you, transition jobs can be a great way to sustain an income while focusing on your side project. Freelance or consulting roles, for example, have become a great way to create your own schedule, as they give you the flexibility to work at your own pace, while building that hobby or side project into a business.