What it takes to succeed as an IT contractor

Looking for some advice about life as an IT contractor in the banking and financial services sector? Thinking about working abroad perhaps? Not sure you’re cut out for contracting? With over 20 years’ experience, IT contractor Daniel tells his story and offers his top tips that may help your IT contracting career.

“I began my IT career with British Steel on Teesside,” explains Daniel. “It was the perfect first job in many ways and I learnt my trade as a technical support specialist, installing software and helping programmers. I was fortunate enough to learn loads both on the job and via external training. The work was both interesting and stimulating.”

How do I know contracting is the right career choice?

“There then came a point where there’s only so far you can go, especially if you don’t want to become a manager or move into management. I was more interested in becoming a specialist in my field. That’s when the idea of contracting hit me, as it would allow me to move around and gain experience within different organisations.”

His first contracting assignment was with the Bank of Scotland in Edinburgh. “Being on your own and in a different city, in new surroundings, was scary. As a contractor you need to organise every aspect of your life, from living accommodation to administering your taxes. I had a wonderful 18 months in a beautiful city, working on mainframe support for a top client. By then, I knew that this was the lifestyle for me.”

Following stints for GEC-Marconi in Stafford and subsequently Bank of America in Croydon, Daniel was offered a four-month contract by the same US multinational financial services corporation – but this time with a difference. He had to pack his bags for the Dutch capital, Amsterdam. 

Understanding the contracting mindset needed to succeed

“I jumped at the chance. I didn’t of course realise that I’d end up staying for 12 years! My contract with Bank of America ended up being extended to a year and a half and then I moved on to Dutch state-owned bank, ABN AMRO. Again, similar kinds of role as before, mainly mainframe, back end server work dealing with data.”

It was to prove a rich cultural experience for Daniel, both inside and outside of work. “I was living in the centre of Amsterdam by one of the main canals. Language wasn’t a problem as English is widely spoken; however, a lot of the documentation is in Dutch so I did have to learn the language and be able to read it. Workwise, the environment was very relaxed and there was a motley crew of different nationalities, which was great.”

Daniel warns that despite the many benefits contracting delivers, life on the road can be a bit lonely and unsettling, so you need to think long and hard before embarking on that kind of contracting career. “You need to be resilient with the right contracting skills, as contracting isn’t for everyone.”

Here are his top tips that will help you develop your contracting career:

In-demand IT contracting skills

“To find regular work, you need to master the skills that employers are looking for.  Keep abreast of all the latest technologies, go on courses if you need to and take advantage of any learning opportunities. Invest in your career. Don’t forget to make detailed notes about techniques as every place is a little different. You’ll be surprised what may come in useful.”

Don’t expect to be spoon fed

“As a contractor, you’re expected to pick things up quickly and hit the ground running. If you think you’re going to be spoon fed, you’re in for a surprise. Even though you’re a one person business to some extent, remember that you’ll be working for a team, so be helpful and socialise. Nurture the relationship with your client project manager – always try to find ways to make them look good.”

Find a good recruitment agent


“Particularly if you’re considering working abroad, a good recruitment agent is priceless. They can help you with a whole host of things, from finding a place to live to local tax, pension and insurance provision. And try to learn the local language – although most people in major European cities where you are likely to find a financial IT contract speak good English, a little effort to integrate goes a long way.”

Manage your personal IT contractor brand

“Make sure you have an up-to-date profile on professional networks such as LinkedIn. Highlight all the projects you’ve worked on and quantify your achievements. Share articles, join relevant groups and even consider blogging. Be as visible as you can, so put yourself out there and ask for recommendations.”