contractor work

How to Get Work as a Contractor

Are you looking for a better quality of contract? Or a higher volume of work?

There’s a few things you can do which will maximise your chances of achieving both of these things.

Accountants Nixon Williams have gathered some tips you can start using today in order to enhance your contracting life.

Can your CV do more for you?

Hirers will most likely only read the first few paragraphs of your CV.

So it’s important to feature your most relevant skills and assets at the top of your CV. You should also summarise what you can offer that others can’t.

Do you tailor your CV to each application?

This simple little technique will enhance your application. Attention to detail will show you’re thorough, and it’s a good way to personalise your CV.

Also, think about what you can do to stand out.

For example, what about creating a personal QR code that links to your LinkedIn account? Something like this also gives the hirer more insight into who you are and showcases your experience.

Are you only looking at one source of finding work?

If so, then one thing you can do is to seek out other ways of getting a contract. Some of the most common sources are below.

Direct application

One obvious way of finding work is to apply directly to contracting roles.

Keep records of what you apply for. Be proactive: chase potential clients if you’re waiting to hear from them.

A simple Google search for your projects in your industry and location is a good start for finding work. There are also specialist job boards such as Contract Recruit and Technojobs.

Recruitment agencies

Recruitment agencies are an ideal source of work if you’re new to contracting.

They can offer a more stable stream of income.  You get access to jobs, help with contract terms and rates, and connections with clients.

Take time to seek out contractor-specific recruitment agencies and send over your shiny new CV. A few you could try include Stopgap (Marketing), Marks Sattin (Finance) and Verovian (Healthcare).

Networking

To some, it can seem terrifying.

But networking often reaps terrific rewards.

Building relationships with professionals is valuable, not just for the advice you could glean.

You never know who other contractors know and what a source of work they could be.

Plus:

It’s nice to have a network of people who understand what contracting life is like.

Find them on relevant spaces, including LinkedIn, Twitter and at events related to your industry or contracting in general.

Nixon Williams has a wealth of information on the most pressing contracting issues.

2 Comments

  • SimpleGuy says:

    Uhm… I’m not sure what value this article adds. Who is the target audience for this advice?

    Make sure your CV is good, apply for roles directly or through agencies, keep a professional network and reach out to them ….

    I can’t imagine anyone with the wherewithal to look for employment wouldn’t have considered these things.

    This tells me nothing about how to get more contracts. It’s click-bait for Nixon Williams

  • SimpleGuy says:

    Uhm… I’m not sure what value this article adds. Who is the target audience for this advice?

    Make sure your CV is good, apply for roles directly or through agencies, keep a professional network and reach out to them ….

    I can’t imagine anyone with the wherewithal to look for employment wouldn’t have considered these things.

    This tells me nothing about how to get more contracts. It’s click-bait for Nixon Williams

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