Contracting - A Way of Life
So, you've got your first contract, and arrive at work on a Monday morning. So, what will be different from your last permanent role?
You can distance yourself from office politics and inter-departmental bickering (if you want to), and since you are your own boss, you no longer need to worry about getting that promotion!
Most large companies are used to contractors, so you shouldn't have a problem with others resenting your high rates and freedom. At the same time, it's best to keep your rate to yourself, and just get on with the job.
If your boss parks his car on the first floor of the car park, it might be an idea to park your Porsche on the 2nd!
As long as you perform your role well, and keep your employer happy, the days of long hours trying to gain a promotion are over. It is now up to you to advance your career, learn new skills and try new things.
Most contractors earn significantly more money than their permanent counterparts - you may be tempted to splash out in the first year or so and wonder why they didn't go contracting sooner.
Chances are, you'll also meet many more people as a contractor - the average contract length is nine months, with the chance to meet a fresh bunch of people each time, as well as gaining a wider variety industry/project experience than the average permie gets a chance to do.
Having said that, some contractors stay on the same project for many years - it's completely up to you.
Contracting is a way of life, and the chances are you will not be disappointed. At the end of the day, if things don't work out, with all the extra experience you have gained, you won't have a problem finding another permanent role.
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