Should I Consider a Contract Role?

The world is changing. Have you noticed? Employers are starting to figure out that they can make use of contractors and freelancers. In this way they exploit the “Gig Economy” and reduce one of their biggest costs, their labour force.

The Gig Economy is defined in this article by the BBC as “a labour market characterised by the prevalence of short-term contracts or freelance work, as opposed to permanent jobs”

As recruiters, we are also seeing this trend. Often our clients will be looking for people on a Contract basis. Sometimes these roles have the option of going permanent if it works out. This “try before you buy” approach can be useful for candidates and an employer.

What’s in it for you?

You get a great insight as to whether you are a cultural fit for an organisation. You also get a chance to make a great impression.

What’s in it for them?

They get an option on a proven employee. It is also possibly easier to finish a contract early if you are under-performing than it is to terminate a full time employee.

There are many reasons an employer might be offering a contract role rather than a full time position.

  • They may need a project delivered
  • They may have a maternity leave position to cover
  • They may have a seasonal peak in activity
  • They may have a freeze on permanent new employees
  • They just might like the flexibility it gives them and they always recruit like that

What should you think about when considering a contract role?

We think as a candidate that considering a contract role can be beneficial.

Pros

  • It is easier to hear about and be sought after for roles from within an organisation
  • You get to determine whether the company is a good fit for you
  • Contracts often get extended
  • It gives you flexibility
  • Contract roles are often hired quickly, getting you employed sooner

Cons

  • You might be looking for the stability of a permanent role
  • Potentially at the end of the contract you will find yourself back on the job market
  • You may be illegible for sick leave, annual leave and other benefits

Once you have landed yourself a contract role, we recommend that you treat it as if it is your dream permanent job. This is because, once you have impressed everyone and made yourself indispensable, you may be considered for similar permanent roles.

These are our tips for being an outstanding contractor:

1. Make a great impression
Be proactive, diligent, considerate and productive. Focus on performing in the role and prove yourself to be a great employee.

2. Learn everything you can
This will help you have the inside knowledge when a full time position becomes available. You will already have an understanding of how the business works, what their values and challenges are and how you can help.

3. Network
Make an effort to get to know your colleagues and supervisors. This will help extend your network and be useful when your contract is coming to an end. You never know who might have a contact or know of a great new role when you need it. After all we all know that approximately 70% of roles are not advertised.

4. Have a great attitude
Say Yes to additional responsibilities if you can. Be enthusiastic about what the company is achieving. Be confident in the contribution that you are making.

5. Leave with class
Should the contract end and you find yourself leaving, don’t take this personally. It is very likely you have done the job you were there to do. Update your CV incorporating everything you have learned and head off on your next employment adventure with the good wishes of your colleagues and supervisors.

If you are looking for a new role in 2017 then Arnold Group can help. We have developed a strong reputation for providing quality recruitment services. We focus on the niche fields of Safety, Insurance and Risk. We invite you to follow our LinkedIn Company page to see available roles and industry news.
___________________________