Here at Beyond Recruitment, we know that contracting can be highly rewarding, offering plenty of flexibility and providing exciting opportunities to experience a range of projects and teams.
In this series of interviews, we dig a bit deeper into this way of working by talking to some of our top contractors to find out what life is like for them in 2022.
Today we talk to a Senior System Administrator who has been contracting for more than 10 years.
Tell us why you choose to contract?
There’s not just one thing – it makes me happy. It’s a combination of lifestyle, balance, flexibility, challenges and there’s never a dull moment. The money just tops it all off.
What do see as the advantages of contracting?
You can learn a diverse set of skills a lot quicker by doing contracting work than you would from one role in one company. As a contractor, you have a lot more ability to walk in and offer a solution and that can be quite empowering whereas for permanent employees you can be quite restricted to their role. As a contractor, your job is to find ways to add value and you aren’t limited to one role, function or even one part of the business.
What changes have you seen in contracting over the last 18 months?
Due to COVID-19, yes I’ve seen dramatic changes such as the shortfall of qualified candidates in the marketplace and lack of access to highly-skilled candidates. It gives me an edge in the market and allows me to showcase my skills better and makes me feel more valuable. It’s nice to feel so appreciated.
How important is your relationship/partnership with your contracting recruiter?
I think the Beyond Recruitment relationship is quite critical. You give people a good opportunity and representation to the client. You do a really good job of that.
What would you say to anyone thinking about contracting?
Do it would be my first instinct, but contracting doesn’t fit everyone. You need certain skills like being flexible, being a self-starter, taking initiative and adapting quickly. You need to be okay going out of your comfort zone, working through ambiguity, having open communication and working transparently. It has to suit your financial situation too. It’s not something everyone can mentally cope with.
Can you tell us why you decided to move from a permanent role to a contract?
I felt indifferent in a permanent role. Every day I would wake up and go to a job and then leave at the end of the day. I felt not fully rewarded or appreciated. When I decided to step outside my comfort zone, I got to take on new challenges, new clients and I found it more rewarding personally and financially.
What did you like about your onboarding process with Beyond Recruitment's Technology, Transformation & Digital contracting specialists?
Previously, I found dealing with recruiters painful. I did not feel that they had my best interests at heart. I felt like I was always chasing them and all the effort was one-sided. This time around with Beyond Recruitment's contracting specialists, it was a much better experience.
You guys sold me into a great opportunity and it’s been amazing. I think you nailed that whole onboarding experience and I really appreciate the regular follow-ups. I feel like you genuinely care.
Summary
If you’d like to learn more about opportunities for contractors in Transformation, Technology and Digital, get in touch with the Beyond Recruitment team today. Our Technology, Transformation & Digital contracting specialists can talk you through the roles currently available and help you plan out your next move.
