Here’s Why Unemployment is Better Than Poor Employment

Employment expert Rob Wilson, President of Employco USA, warns job-seekers about the risks of accepting "stopgap" positions—roles that are below their experience level or offer suboptimal pay.

A study in the International Journal of Epidemiology found that low-paying, poor-quality jobs can harm physical health and emotional well-being more than unemployment. Additionally, research from the National Bureau of Economic Research shows employers prefer candidates who are unemployed but have relevant experience over those working in lesser roles.

Wilson advises against taking jobs that don’t align with long-term career goals but notes that temporary work through staffing agencies can be beneficial. These agencies can match job-seekers with roles that provide relevant experience, helping them avoid career missteps.