5 things to look for in a contract

Can you believe it, it’s back to school already? Did anyone else manage to catch a glimpse of the summer? Or did it fly by just as quickly for you too?  As our commute back to work resumes in full force, we sit and fondly remember our days by the beach, sipping cocktails and biking through the national park as it dawns on us, it’s time to get back to it. It’s time to get back into work mode and what better way than sourcing a new contract to keep idle hands at bay.

It can be an exciting time looking for new projects to be a part of but it can also be a little daunting as there is so much to consider; where will you work and how long for? To make things a little easier when scoping out your next contract we have enlisted to the help of Chris Henry. Chris is part of specialist recruiter platform iContract and he’s going to share his 5 things to look for in a contract.

Length

Contract length is an important matter when considering any contract. Before making any decisions, think about your own situation and what length of contract would suit your unique position. For instance, a short-term contract of around 1-3 months might be ideal for you if you know your circumstances could change in the near future.  Lengthy contracts of 6-10 months can  be ideal for some as it should give you more time to plan your next move in the contracting market whilst keeping you financially comfortable.

Rate of Pay

As a contractor, it’s important that you don’t undersell or oversell your services. Be confident in what you’re worth when negotiating any contract rate.  Don’t present any hard ultimatums to an employer, show some flexibility. Just ensure it’s clear from day one what your day rate is, don’t let it be a grey area.

Challenge yourself

Contracting is work at the end of the day and in any workplace, you have to feel challenged in what you do. Before taking on any contract, be sure that this contract challenges you and will keep you moving forward in your career. In any role you take, you do not want to stagnate in your professional development. Ensure the contract you choose is a right fit for you and you’ll be motivated to be the best you can be.

Location

Where you work is of course an important factor in any contract. A long and stressful commute can have a negative impact on the way you work and your surroundings can also have an effect on the way you work. Ensure your work location is a good fit for you on a personal and motivational level. Of course, we’re not telling you to be fussy in any decision you make over location, but be sure you’ve checked that you’re happy before you make any final decision.

Flexibility

It is predicted by PeoplePerHour founder Xenios Thrasyvolou, that by 2020, half of the workforce will be freelancing. One of the driving factors of this trend is the flexibility you can enjoy as a freelancer or contractor. Ask the majority of the self-employed population, and the one benefit they enjoy as a freelancer is the freedom and flexibility it offers. With any contract negotiation, much like rate of pay, there is room to negotiate for flexibility. Again, don’t make it an ultimatum, but do ask about some of the flexible benefits you can enjoy in your contract, for instance, working one day a week remotely from home.

iContract is an online platform connecting contractors with recruiters, helping contractors find contracts that are tailored to their unique preferences as contractors.

Contractors can also access industry advice from iContract’s community of service providers, of which Caunce O’Hara is pleased to announce to be a part of.

Register as a contractor for free at www.icontract.co.uk

Key points contractors should look for in a contract