From “permie” to contractor: Making the leap

Contractors are in more demand than ever and this has resulted in a growing number of permanent workers ditching their 9-5 office jobs for the freedom of the contracting lifestyle.

Making a change can be daunting, but switching will be easier than you think and you’ll soon be reaping the rewards.

Here is some advice to help make the transition as smooth as possible:

Make a decision

Be confident in your choice and don’t waste time going back and forth. If you have researched the process you need to follow and if the benefits are ideal, go for it! You’ll enjoy greater flexibility, a higher pay rate, the variety of working on different assignments and an ever increasing skill set.

Get support

Join an umbrella company so you have access to professional guidance. We offer contractors unrivalled support, making everything straightforward. Our expert team is on hand to guide you through the whole process and you can expect quick prompt payment, your paperwork handled, access to our online portal and industry leading insurance. Plus you’ll enjoy all the rights and benefits you’d associate with ‘traditional’ employment, including guaranteed hours of work, holiday pay, sick pay, paternity/maternity pay and access to a workplace pension.

Actively seek work

Don’t expect assignments to come to you, get out there and network. Connect with recruiters and contacts and seek out opportunities. Know what you can offer a potential client and don’t be afraid to sell yourself. Keep your CV and online profiles up to date and have examples of your previous work to show off your capabilities.

You may have done a few interviews in your lifetime, but brushing up on your interview technique may be the difference between securing an assignment and not. Do some practice questions and prepare thoroughly before an interview. Plan some questions to ask the interviewer- this will show your enthusiasm for the assignment.

Have your say

Are you a contractor? Do you have any other advice for new starters? Join in the discussion on Twitter, or leave a comment below.