ºÚ¶´ÉçÇø

Time management – Wherever you choose to work, managing your time efficiently is critical. You have been hired for your ability and professionalism so do not be surprised if the client does not manage a contractor with the same intensity as a member of their permanent team. You are expected to be able to get on with the job and get it done.

Money matters – Whether you are working through an agency or directly for a client, you’ll have to complete timesheets or job records before any cash is parted with. With clients, you are likely to be one of many suppliers and will have to conform to their purchasing and accounts systems. You will need to have a good financial head, be an expert at invoicing and a debt management controller. And if you are doing it yourself, keep on top of tax and VAT matters.

Self-development – It is imperative that you keep abreast of technical and legislative changes that affect your practice and build in time and budget for training and professional development. Your clients will expect you always to be totally up to date with all matters affecting your practice.

Communication and influencing – Clients use contractors to help them through periods of heavy workload, or where they are seeking specific skills that their operation lacks, or where they need interim support to pull a project back on track. So while you must be an office diplomat, at the same time you must ooze professional and social confidence, possess excellent communication skills and have a persuasive ability to make others listen. This combination will ensure your client benefits to the maximum from your skills and you are able to do your job as effectively as possible. Contracting is not for those who are afraid to be heard.

Forging relationships – ºÚ¶´ÉçÇø relationships will prove a vital skill if you are considering moving into the contract arena. In particular, the ability to weave yourself quickly into your client’s fabric is essential to get your job done. And as somebody guiding their own destiny, spotting business opportunities within client operations and building solid, established relationships with clients and agencies will prove to be the ultimate skill you need to remain consistently in work.