In this fast-changing world, there are many different paths that your career could take. Mor...
In this fast-changing world, there are many different paths that your career could take. More and more people are deciding to start contracting to continue developing their career. This article will break down the top benefits of working as a contractor to help you decide if the move is right for you.
Interim professionals are in high demand, with contract roles making up 16% of all our live jobs in 2024. To meet this demand, more permanent employees are considering the shift into contract work. We want to help employees understand the advantages and disadvantages of life as a contractor.
For many, working as an interim contractor is ideal because of the flexible nature. The increased control of working hours allows you to create a work-life balance that works for you. For instance, you can decide:
Ultimately, as an interim contractor, you can take control of your schedule and give yourself the work-life balance best suited to your needs.
As an interim specialist, you can pick which projects and assignments you work on and in which industry. The variety will leave you spoilt for choice.
This ability to choose what you do allows you to focus on projects that genuinely capture your interest. This is a significant benefit compared to permanent jobs. Permanent employees often get assignments that are less appealing.
Additionally, having variety in your interim work ensures each day is different. We interviewed one interim professional who shared this was the main reason for becoming a contractor. She said, "By doing interim placements, it means that I get to work 9-10 months at a place, I get to see a project through, and then I'm on to the next thing. That's what works for me."
Interim work can provide the keys to new opportunities by allowing you to:
Contractors often receive higher pay per day or per assignment than permanent employees for the same work. Making an interim hire is often more cost-effective for employers as businesses save on paying benefits and other overhead costs associated. For instance, companies don't need to commit to paying holiday pay or pension contributions. As a result, the day rate is typically higher for contractors.
Also, because contract work is flexible, you can often handle several projects at once - increasing your earning potential. Ultimately, the stronger demand for your skill set will result in more opportunities for work, leading to higher earnings.
Finally, your tax status as an interim worker will result in you taking home a higher net pay than a full time employee.
Many dream about becoming their own boss. By becoming an interim specialist, you're essentially doing just that.
Contractors are their own boss - a significant benefit to people who prefer to work independently and manage their own schedule. Plus, unlike permanent roles, where you are obliged to work when your employer requires, interim work allows the individual to pick and choose what projects they work on, which businesses they work for, when they work and from where.
No one can deny that interim work is fast-paced. You need to put in time and effort to see the benefits. However, by being your own boss, you can take the necessary time off you need to dedicate to your personal life.
If you're ready to start searching for temp roles, get in touch with our specialist contract recruitment team or apply to our latest interim roles.
