Am I good enough to start contracting, exactly how did they start?

I ran a recruitment agency for a number of years and I can tell you that it even surprised me, to see the types of people that were and which became successful contractors.

To dispel some myths and to help you start your contractor journey I’ve put together some pointers. Sometimes; though it just comes down to the fact that you are ready and feel ready to start contracting your services.

Up-to-date -  there were those people that always seemed to have the skills that clients were asking for. Get trained, keep trained don’t work with legacy.

Contractor Expertise - if your skills are so niche, you can market yourself as “the” expert – don’t update your skills with every new technique, method, or practise but become “the” person for one area.

Knowledgeable -  there is no need to become the ultimate expert; if your skills are as good as permanent employee but you are available for fixed term contract work then there is no reason why you can’t become a contractor.

Unusual - There are some contracts which are very unusual or even peculiar, (the money can be great!!) if you can market yourself as a problem solver, able to turn a hand to any problem again you’ll have some success.

The biggest hurdle to starting is getting started, and what I mean by this is most employers shy away if you have to give notice, or the contract that you want to start will start before your notice finishes.

How do you get round this? Here is the inside line. It’s what people do time and time again. But never give up a perm job to start contracting unless you can face the consequences of it going down the pan.

You might not feel comfortable with some of these options, but they are just that. Options.

Tell the agent, employer that you can start the contract ( then make sure you do everything possible to get the start date you need)

Tell the agent, employer that you have already finished ( then make sure you do everything possible to start)

Book a holiday and start your contract. Deal and negotiate with the consequences of not being able to return to your perm job.

Be upfront and tell your boss that your 1,2,3, month notice is a nightmare, and that you need a break. After all you’ve been loyal for the last 1,2,3 years and you need help now.

Leave and Don’t look back. (don’t count on getting any future reference)

Beg or negotiate. (depends on how much you need your future reference and how close knit the sector you work in is)

If you are smart though you would have already booked some unpaid leave during the time of year that you know is going to give you some contract work.

Normally the lead up to Christmas time or for period of the summer where permanent employees may take leave are “busy” contractor times every year and could be the right to for you to start your contracting career. 

Most bosses are understanding, even if they don’t show it on a daily basis. Just remain committed and be decisive!