What you are thankful for this holiday season? According to a 2016 Bureau of Labor Statistics report, the average employee tenure was 4.2 years. The report says the average person changes jobs 10 to 15 times (with an average of 12 job changes) during his or her career. With this many transitions, employees spend a lot of time and energy considering job changes and switching from one job to another. These statistics may surprise you (and might not seem positive) but the idea of being able to find new opportunities is encouraging. Having the freedom to explore new and different career options is very positive for employees.

Maybe you would like to add an element of learning and flexibility to your career. Exploring locum tenens experiences is a temporary way to investigate different job locations, employers or positions. You may find you want to change jobs or stick with what you have. Moonlighting gives you the chance to try multiple different jobs and oversee your own schedule. You can do short- or long-term, one day-a-week or multiple days-per-week. Here are some other advantages to locum tenens (moonlighting) opportunities:

There’s no risk in inquiring about another opportunity – Locum tenens positions are meant to be temporary and inquiries are encouraged, especially if you work through an agency.
Placement agencies are a wealth of information – Placement agencies are aware of local and regional opportunities and job trends. They can provide research and contact information.

It’s a kinestic learner’s dream – Do you learn best by doing? Moonlighting is a great way to get hands-on experience without having to make a long-term commitment.

Go where you’ve never gone before – Locum tenens jobs are a great chance to travel. You can spend some time in a different city and try something on a full- or part-time basis.

It can provide bonus income – Already happy in your job? Moonlighting jobs can provide supplemental income. Whether you’re a millennial saving money for a first home or a more experienced employee in-between full-time positions, moonlighting shifts provide income that can add or sustain your bank account.

The flexibility of staying or leaving – There’s more job security with locum tenens than you might think. Facilities benefit from having locum tenens employees. From filling in their employment gaps, especially during maternity leaves, extended leaves, vacations or moving, locum tenens employees are an asset to an employer. A plus for you could be a long-term position leading to a permanent position with benefits. Another plus for you is if you don’t like your moonlighting job, you can choose a different job or facility, or if you still have a full-time job you still have consistent income. Either in your current job or a locum tenens job, you may discover a job that you are truly thankful for.