Contract and subcontract work has historically been used in many fields to support busy times, fill in during maternity leave, long service leaves, and provide specialised skills for particular projects. It has always been common in blue collar jobs.
However, contracting jobs and non-permanent employment now cover a variety of industries, from IT and Finance jobs. The pandemic has revolutionised the way we work, and hybrid and flexible working are quickly becoming the norm.
If you've been considering a contracting role, this may be the best time to take the plunge. In order to help you decide whether you're ready to switch to contracting, we've gathered some of the main advantages of doing so.
Contracting gives you the freedom and flexibility to live the four-day work week or have more free time to engage in other interests that you have. Contracting gives you the flexibility to work when and how you want, whether that means juggling family obligations or taking on short-term projects while travelling.
You have the freedom to decide how and when you work, as well as the types of assignments you want to take on. Holidays or time off in between contracts are permitted by the flexible nature of contracting, giving you more control over how your work and personal lives are balanced.
Contracting is a smart and very effective way to diversify your skill set and increase your experience. It is possible to continuously learn new skills and experience various management styles, cultures, processes, and practises by being exposed to a diverse range of businesses, industries, and assignments. Building an impressive resume and honing useful and transferable skills like communication, creativity, and adaptability are both facilitated by this.
People who enjoy a varied work life may find constant stimulation through contracting. Contractors frequently take on a variety of projects in various settings, places, and industries, getting to know new people in fresh organisations with each new task. Therefore, contracting might be the ideal career choice for you if you enjoy variety and are motivated by new challenges.
The chance to establish connections with a variety of different businesses is one of the main advantages of contracting. Your reputation as a talented and trustworthy expert will grow if you consistently deliver excellent service to each employer. Building a large network and a solid reputation can then assist you in finding additional contract work or pave the way for more long-term opportunities.
Working remotely or in amusing places is another possibility made possible by contracting. Particularly in the wake of COVID-19, the world is embracing remote work. In a post-pandemic world, being a contractor doesn't necessarily bind you to an actual office. In many positions, such as Finance or IT contracting jobs, you are no longer required to be in a set place. You can choose to work from home, in a co-working area, or just drop by the office once a week.
Contractors often earn significantly more money than full-time employees in many industries. In fact, contractors can make up to twice as much per hour or day as a full-time employee while also receiving overtime pay for each additional hour worked.
You can also set your own rate for jobs and projects with contracting work, and you can take on more than one job if you need the extra money. However, this must be weighed against the lack of paid sick days, vacation days, and your obligation to make your own contributions to your retirement plan.
Contracting work is an opportunity to dip your toe in the water and determine if it's a good fit. if your dream employer isn't hiring permanent staff, contracting is the best option.
Another excellent way to establish yourself as a subject matter expert is through contracting. Additionally, it gives the employer a chance to evaluate you for upcoming roles and gives you the chance to get to know the business or position before deciding to work there permanently.
Ready to start your next contracting position?
Network Contracting Solutions, a specialised contracting firm, is to connect top IT and Finance contractors with the best employment opportunities. Specialist consultants with connections to some of South Africa’s most illustrious businesses make up the Network Contracting Team.
Do you want to begin contracting? Submit your CV with us and unlock incredible opportunities with us.