Contracting guide

I had a conversation over the last week with a Learning Designer considering full time contracting.

Becoming a contractor is not suited to everyone but has great benefits for those who become successful. The pros and cons as I see it are as follows:

Pros

• Flexibility. You can choose projects, timing, and where you work.

• Variety. The choice of projects, tools and industries.

• Pay. Rates are often higher than equivalent salaries.

• Focus. Clear deliverables and less internal politics

Cons

• Gaps between gigs. You need a pipeline and a cash buffer to support breaks

• Less influence. You often brought have limited say in strategy.

• No paid leave. Also consider that contractors are often first to go in an economic downturn

• Admin. GST, super, insurance, contracts, and chasing invoices are on you.

Good fit if:

• You like pace, variety, and can handle ambiguity.

• You can hit the ground running and be judged on outcomes.

• You are comfortable marketing yourself and keeping relationships warm.

Permanent roles make more sense if:

• You want deeper influence and long term outcomes.

• You prefer stability, team belonging, and benefits.

• You are early in your career and want mentoring and development.

I would love to hear any other tips if you have had a successful period as a contractor.

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