I manage a firm that handles over 1,000 contractors who specialise in providing compliance consulting and contracting support mainly in the Financial Services Sector. We work with some of the UKs leading banks and building societies as well as small firms who need occasional compliance policy guidance. Every day we are constantly asked why a person has not been nominated for a pending project. There are a number of does and dont's that will help you be in the right place at the right time when the next contract arises: Does Make sure that youve completed your registration fully and have submitted a CV. This is the most basic error that many contractors make. Call your agency / consultancy / outsourcer every 3 4 weeks, but not more often than this. We do like to hear from you and yes it does increase your chances of being known for the next appropriate opportunity. Set the rate that you are prepared to work for at a realistic level. If you overprice then youll miss out on opportunities. If you price yourself too low then youll always be fighting to achieve what you expect for your services. Its better to turn down positions than to not receive them at all! Register with at least 4 resource providers. This way youll increase your employment chances. Only take on a project that meets at least 70% of your own requirements. Always be open with each of the companies that you are registered with. They will understand and be more helpful to you with this in mind. Keep an eye on the evolving contractor market. You should be learning new skills and achieving new qualifications to remain competitive and increase your marketability. If you are unsure of anything relating to the contracting process then it is always best to ask for help. You are the expert in your chosen field. We are the experts in finding you the place to perform your work. Dont's Terminate an existing project early to take on a new project that you prefer. Clients are now savvy to this and many specifically request a reference from your most recent contract. You will also create a bad reputation for yourself by jumping contracts. Take on a project that you believe may not be suited for you on the basis that you need to be working. Most contractors doing this either leave or find their contracts ended prematurely. When You Achieve a Project: Interact with your line manager and team at the clients location. Its likely that youre an expensive resource and paid more than the full time employees that you are working with. This will help with your enjoyment on the project and also with references and contract extensions. Smile and even offer to make tea where possible! Once a week touch base with your line manager for an informal appraisal. |
