Finding contracting work is every contractor’s worst fear when there are long, unplanned gaps between contracts. Follow these 10 steps to assist you in securing your next contract and enhancing your reputation.
1. Use your networks
A significant number of contracts are discovered through word of mouth. The more proactive you are in promoting yourself, the greater your chances of finding contracting work. Consider reaching out to:
- Individuals you have previously worked with
- Friends and family members
- Relevant professional associations
- Contacts on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn
Inform people that you are actively seeking work, specify your desired type of work, availability, and highlight your skills.
Building a strong network requires time and effort. It’s important to stay in touch with people regularly, not only when you are actively searching for your next contract.
2. Build a good reputation
In contracting, holds significant importance. Do a good job and your next contract will be much easier to secure. If you don’t have the appropriate skills for a particular contract, be honest—no matter how much you desire the work.
People tend to assess contractors more rigorously than other team members. Therefore, keep in mind to maintain the utmost professionalism at all times.
3. Make time to look for your next contract
Budget and plan time to connect and seek out contracts. Arrange meetings over coffee, engage with agencies, and stay updated on industry news and job listings.
4. Use recruitment agencies
A reputable recruitment agency is aware of upcoming contract opportunities before you are. Select agencies that specialise in your specific industry. Register with multiple agencies, and as you progress, you will likely develop a preference for one or two that truly comprehend your situation and skills.
Help getting the hours and rate you’d like
Recruitment agents can assist you in comprehending the market and negotiating the terms of your contract. This proves helpful if discussing finances makes you uncomfortable. It can also be beneficial to consult other contractors with similar skill sets to gauge appropriate rates for specific tasks.
Recruitment agents can also inform you about potential requirements, such as professional insurance.
It’s important to note that agencies charge additional fees on top of your rate. Contracting directly with an organisation instead of through an agency might increase your chances of securing a higher rate. You can use a combination of agencies and direct contracting, so there’s no need to restrict yourself to one or the other.
What to watch out for in contracts
5. Keep your CV up to date
When you’re contracting, it’s crucial to have the ability to promptly send out your CV when needed. Ensure that your CV contains up-to-date information and can be easily customised to fit various roles. Maintain a list of skills and experiences that can be swiftly incorporated based on the client’s requirements.
Whenever you make changes to your CV, be sure to send an updated copy to your recruitment agents.
6. Search job sites
Certain contracts are posted on the online job and tender platforms, such as the New Zealand Government Electronic Tenders Service (GETS). It is worthwhile to stay vigilant and subscribe to receive job alerts via email.
Government tenders – GETS
7. Be flexible
The greater your flexibility, the wider the range of contracts available for you to choose from. Don’t exclude the possibility of working for organisations that you wouldn’t consider for permanent employment.
Additionally, be flexible with your rate, particularly when you’re starting out. Avoid undervaluing your worth, but be open to having a rate range.
8. Show you understand the client
Contractors are frequently hired to bridge gaps, resolve issues, or address urgent tasks. Demonstrate to clients that you can quickly fit in, efficiently complete the job, and have the skills to tackle their specific needs. This approach will contribute to building your reputation.
9. Don’t get too settled
When your contract keeps getting extended, it’s easy to get too comfortable. Don’t. About a month or so before each contract ends, start preparing for your next job.
Give yourself as many choices as possible — give your agencies a call, meet up with people for a coffee, and stay updated on the job market.
Think about if you want to stay
When you’re presented with a contract renewal, take some time to seriously consider if you genuinely want to continue. The uncertainty surrounding your next contract can make it difficult to let go of a guaranteed opportunity. However, it might not be the best decision for your professional growth or overall well-being.
Experiencing gaps between contracts is quite common. Make sure to allocate funds for being unemployed for a minimum of two months per year and have a savings buffer in place to handle unexpected periods of unemployment.
10. Think about the time of year
When choosing between two contracts, take note of their respective end dates. For instance, it can be challenging to secure new contracts from December to February, as organisations tend to slow down during the Christmas and summer periods.
If you’re contracting with government agencies, be aware that the period leading up to an election may have limited job opportunities available.
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