How to tell if you are suited to IT Contracting

This article is part of our series on 'the beginners guide to IT Contracting.' Being an IT Contractor is very different from being employed. You do not have the stability of permanent employment, but equally there are many advantages. In particular the financial rewards can make contracting very appealing as well as the variety of work.

This article is a great starting point for someone considering IT Contracting for the first time, especially if you live and work in the UK. It is relevant for IT professionals who are seeking their first job after completing their training / qualifications / degree, or someone who has spent a few years in the IT sector within a permanent role and now wants to try contracting.

Question 1. Do you like being you own boss?

This is one of the most important questions to ask yourself. For some people the idea of running your own business (yes, that is what being a professional contractor is all about) can be extremely enjoyable and satisfying. You are responsible for all aspects of the legal and financial operations of your company, as well as needing to be disciplined with your time-management and work ethos.

Question 2. Are you very financially driven?

If you have a great internal drive to earn money then this is a definite sign that contracting could be for you. Overall, contractors earn (in some cases) up to 40% more than permanent staff. Yet, you need to also be quite financially aware, as you will have to deal with your personal and company tax, as well as working with Accountants on a regular basis.

Question 3. Is variety of work important to you?

This is another key indicator as most contractors we know are stimulated by the opportunity of being involved with a variety of new projects. They enjoy moving from contract to contract and company to company, and as a result usually develop very varied experience and impressive CVs.

Question 4. Do you enjoy working with Cutting Edge technologies?

Contractors have been at the leading edge of many new technology projects we have been involved with over the last 25 years, as they utilise time between contracts to enhance their skills. Contractors are usually at the forefront of all new projects, so if this appeals to you then this is another sign that contracting is probably the route for you to go.

Question 5. Do you prefer to stay out of office politics?

This is our favourite one to finish on, as we know it is a key reason why quite a high number of people prefer contracting. It gives you the opportunity to take on a senior role (for the period of the project) but without all the ‘baggage’ and internal issues that goes with being a senior permanent employee. If you like just getting on with your job, then definitely consider this point.

To Summarise

If you have answered yes to all the above questions, there is a good chance that contracting is right for you. But, before you go giving up your job, or spending money setting up a company or talking to an accountant, do some more research. There are plenty of resources out there, including the additional links at the base of this article, to help you understand contracting in far more detail, the types of skills that are in demand, how much you can earn and a step by step guide to get you there. Best of luck and thank you for taking the time to read our article.

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