Although temporary work can be rewarding, everyone’s schedules differ and you may be at a time in your life when a long-term position makes more sense. So, if you’re looking for a way to transfer the skills you’ve accrued from temporary or freelance assignments into something more long-term, here are a few tips to help you get started!

Understand where your skills fit

First, take a look at your skills on paper to evaluate where you have the possibility of applying. If the job requires 3 years of experience and you have 2 years of accrued experience from temp work, you may be able to play up your skills on both a resume and in an interview. Many of the skills gained in a short-term role can be showcased as transferable skills, so knowing what prior work can “count” as relevant experience can help to illustrate your qualifications.

Research what you’re worth

While looking for a long-term position, it’s important to know what you’re worth. So before applying to any positions, research average salaries for the position in your area through websites such as Glassdoor and Payscale. Understanding what the going rate is for a professional at your level can help you gauge whether the salary you want is appropriate. Likewise, it will also help you determine if an employer is offering enough for the job you’re applying for.

Network!

Now that you know where you stand, it’s time to put yourself out there. In addition to having an up-to-date LinkedIn account, reaching out to friends and family is a smart idea as well. Your decision to move to a longer-term role should be known so that if anyone in your circle hears of an opportunity, they know to pass on the information to you. It also couldn’t hurt to reach out to former colleagues and supervisors from past assignments. If you’ve impressed them with your work, they may have a position for you in mind!

Know how to talk about your experience

If your experience is spread out between a few jobs in a short time period, a hiring manager may be wary of job hopping or lack of long-term commitment. For that reason, telling a couple of stories that highlight your dedication and expertise within previous positions may help them to understand your commitment as a professional. Before meeting with a hiring manager, make sure you’re prepared with a few stories. This way you’re equipped to elaborate upon your professional skills and strengths.