12 Advantages of Full-Time Employment

When seeking out a new job, it is helpful to consider what type of employment you want. While working full time may mean spending longer hours in the workplace, it can have a larger return on investment than part-time positions. Choosing to work a full-time position can allow you to experience many employment advantages through the various company benefits and perks offered. In this article, we explore the differences between full-time and part-time jobs, provide a list of full-time employment advantages and offer tips for starting a full-time job.

Full-time vs. part-time employment

The biggest difference between full-time and part-time employment is the number of hours worked per week. Full-time employees work around 30 to 40 hours a week, while part-time employees typically work less than 30 hours a week. Schedules for part-time roles tend to be more flexible, often with rotating shifts, whereas full-time positions have more consistent schedules. Full-time employees are typically also eligible for more benefits than part-time emploContentyees. Many customer service roles are part-time, though other industries may offer part-time roles to employees who cannot work a full 40-hour week.

Read more:

• How Many Hours Equal Full-Time Employment?

• The Differences Between Full-Time Versus Part-Time Employment

12 advantages of full-time employment

Here are some advantages of working full time:

Steady income

Most full-time employees have fixed salaries and are paid weekly or biweekly. Every paycheck will be the same amount of money for the total hours of work, meaning that you know how much to expect in your bank account monthly and can properly budget based on your expenses. Full-time employees also tend to be paid more than part-time employees due to having more specialized skills.

Insurance

Most employers offer their employees health benefits and other insurance plans, such as dental and life insurance. Depending on the job and company, these may be provided at a company discount or paid in full. In addition to helping cover medical expenses, insurance coverage can also help when unexpected circumstances occur, such as a short-term disability.

Paid time off

Each pay period, employees typically earn a specific amount of paid time off, which can be used for vacation or sick leave. Companies also offer paid time off for certain holidays, like Thanksgiving and Christmas, as well as parental leave after an employee has a baby.

Retirement plans

Employees can invest in a 401(k) retirement plan to prepare for the future. Some companies offer an employer contribution match, where they match a percentage of the employee's contributions. As you progress in your career, you can keep your retirement earnings by rolling them over to your next job's retirement plan.

Related: How Does a 401(k) Plan Work?

More social security benefits

Working full time can help increase your social security benefits since you receive more benefits the more you work. Social security credits are earned while you work and pay taxes, and they can help replace earnings when you retire or if you become disabled.

Job advancement opportunities

Employers view their full-time employees as a long-term investment and are more likely to promote them than part-time employees. Your company may be more inclined to invest in you and help you in your career if they feel like you intend to stay with them for a long period of time.

Fixed schedule

Full-time employees work a fixed schedule, usually 40 hours a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though this may vary depending on the specific job and industry. Having a specific and consistent work time each day allows you to plan around your work schedule. The fixed schedule also provides stability in knowing when you are working, rather than waiting for a rotating schedule from a part-time job or having to unexpectedly switch shifts with someone.

Professional training opportunities

Companies often offer on-site professional training opportunities and workshops to help employees continue to learn and grow. Some jobs also offer tuition reimbursement to encourage employees to go back to college and enhance their skills.

Professional relationships

Working with the same people daily allows you to develop close professional relationships. Building relationships with coworkers can help expand your career network and teach you about different areas or aspects of your company or industry.

Employee stock purchase plan

Depending on the company, you may be able to contribute a portion of your check to the company's stock purchase plan at a discounted rate. Employee stock enrollment typically occurs twice a year, allowing you to purchase your desired percentage of stock shares. Because the discount rate is guaranteed, you may still earn money even if the company stock price goes down.

Read more: Employee Stock Options: Definitions and How They Work

Office amenities

In addition to receiving work supplies, those working in offices and work facilities may enjoy amenities such as free snacks, parking and access to an on-site fitness center. Companies might also provide space for different purposes, such as conference rooms for meetings and lounge areas for chatting with coworkers.

Discounts on products

Companies may offer discounts on products such as cell phone plans and job-related items. Depending on what products or services the company sells, employees may get discounts on them as well as early access opportunities and information.

Potential disadvantages of full-time employment

While full-time employment has several benefits, there are a few disadvantages to consider as well:

Tendency to become stagnant

Working at the same company for a long time can make you comfortable in your routine with no desire for change. The work may also become monotonous as you repeat the same actions each day. Make sure you continue to enhance your career skills and try taking on more challenging projects at work to avoid becoming stagnant.

Limited versatility on your resume

When you work one full-time job as opposed to multiple part-time jobs, your resume may lack versatility. To enhance your experience, try getting involved with volunteer groups or organizations outside of work to showcase your skills in other areas. For instance, someone who loves to write but doesn't use that skill in their current job may consider writing email blasts for a local charity in their free time.

Increased work-related stress

Since full-time work involves spending a large amount of time on the job every day, you may experience more work-related stress as you try to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Try to prioritize what needs to be completed first, such as by creating a to-do list and ordering your tasks based on importance. Also, make sure to take breaks throughout the day when needed to relax. For instance, you could go for a walk or eat a snack outside to enjoy some fresh air.

Related: How To De-Stress at Work

Difficulty balancing personal life

Having a good work-life balance may be more challenging with full-time jobs since you have less free time than you would in a part-time position. To ensure that you still have time to take care of your family, participate in your hobbies and meet up with friends, try hyper-focusing on your work tasks with no personal distractions, such as your cell phone. This will help you get all of your work done during business hours so that you can spend the rest of your day focusing on your personal life.

Tips for starting a full-time job

Here are a few tips to remember when starting a full-time job:

Take the initiative

Start projects on your own and take the necessary next steps to move the company forward toward success. Going beyond what is asked of you can showcase your capabilities and help you advance further in your career. The ability to see what needs to be accomplished demonstrates your initiative and leadership capabilities.

Stay organized

Remember to write out important meetings and assignments on a calendar or to-do list that you can check throughout the day. Also, keep your desk and office area tidy to make it easier to find items you need and stay productive.

Prepare for the day ahead

Each night, lay out clothes to wear for the following day and set an alarm to make sure you wake up on time. Taking steps to prepare for your day ahead can help make your workload lighter in the morning.

Get to know your coworkers

Initiate friendly conversations and interactions with your colleagues during the workday to help build professional relationships. Use active listening to learn more about them and find common interests.

Ask questions when necessary

As a new employee, it can be helpful to ask your coworkers any questions you have about how things are done. Try not to overload them with questions, however. Start by using your available resources to find answers on your own if you can.

Double-check your work

Before turning in assignments, make sure your work is free of errors, follows company guidelines and is something you are proud of. Use checklists to ensure you followed all of the necessary steps and avoided making mistakes. Double-checking your work will save you time in the future and show your employer that you are detail-oriented and have a strong work ethic.