By Jade Bennett.

The rise of the gig economy has been well documented, with over 7.4% of Victorian contractors using over 100 digital platforms to find work. This includes contractor jobs ranging from content creation, UX design and software engineering.

With an increasing number of jobseekers opting for greater flexibility, variety of work and career pivots, we offer our tips on how to leverage your opportunities as a contractor in tech.

1. Partner with a recruitment agency that specialises in contract or contingent recruitment

   Most agencies are heavily geared towards either permanent or contract recruitment across specific sectors. Make sure your recruitment partner knows the tech space well and, more specifically, your domain e.g. Software Engineering, Product Management, DevOps etc.

2. Always keep an eye on the market

   You may have landed an awesome 6-month contract job, but things can change quickly in contracting land; projects get cancelled, budgets run out, or time simply flies by and before you know it your contract is over. It makes sense to keep close to your chosen recruitment partner so you don’t find yourself with large chunks of time in-between roles.

3. Keep up to date with the latest technology and developments in your chosen field

   More often than not, companies bring contractors in to fill a tech gap in their existing team. This is usually when they’re moving to a new tech stack. By keeping your skills fresh, your expertise will always be in demand. 

4. Plan ahead

   Think about your future. Where do you see yourself in the next 3-5 years? Are you developing the skills and experience needed to get there? If you’d like to move into leadership, make sure you’re taking contractor roles where you’ll harness these skills. If your contracting roles are more tactical/ hands-on, consider taking courses to learn new and relevant skills, or joining tech meet-ups and mentoring groups.

5. Consider your professional set-up
   

   Are you planning on being a ‘career contractor’? If so, we recommend you find a good accountant and look into setting up your own Pty Ltd company. Or you may opt to contract as PAYG via an agency. Whichever option you choose, make sure you’re covered for the essentials such as PI (Professional Indemnity), PL (Public Liability) and Workcover.

At Middleton Executive, we work with our contractors to optimise your contracting experience. So if you have got any questions relating to career contracting, or you’re looking for your next contract role across Product Development, Product Management, Agile Delivery or DevOps, get in touch with us today!

Photo credit: Stefan Stefancik