As we move into the Christmas period, 2017 will be here before you know it. The majority of contractors and freelancers will already be winding down, but it’s important to take advantage of your free time by refining your skills and planning. Both of which will ensure that you have constant work as we transition into 2017.
In this blog post, Gorilla Accounting will be taking a look at some of the steps contractors can take that could help in securing your next role in 2017.
Keep Track of People You’ve Worked with Before
If you’re only just getting into contracting or you’ve been doing it for a number of years, make sure to keep track of people that you may have worked with before.
For new contractors it can often by difficult securing your first client but reaching out to people you have worked with before such as previous employers can be a perfect way to get your foot in the door.
As it’s usually quieter around the Christmas period, this will be a perfect time to go for a catch up with any old contacts that you have made. Alternatively, you could send them a courtesy email thanking them for the opportunity to work together over the past 12 months.
When working as a contractor, it’s important to above and beyond for each client that you have as there is not always a guarantee of constant work. The small things that you think may not matter always do.
Preparation is Key
Preparing for the new year is essential to securing new clients. Providing that you’ve reached out to the right people and secured yourself an interview, it’s time to start your preparation.
Do as much research as you possibly can into the company that you will be interviewing at. Showing an interest in the company will put you in a better position than those who haven’t even bothered looking at what it is that the company does. Regardless of your overall ability there will always be someone who could be better than you and doing things such as research could ensure that you stand out as your next interview.
Ensure that you don’t come away from your interview with any second thoughts. This means that you shouldn’t hold back in any interview, anything that you’re proud of in your working life should be brought up if possible.
In addition, you should make sure that you actually want the job you are applying for. Never go for a job just for the sake of having a job. A job that you are passionate about will not only ensure that you are happy, but will also ensure that you do the job well.
If you would like any tips on how to prepare for an interview as a contractor, you can find out more here.
Give it Your All
As attractive and flexible as contracting is, it doesn’t mean that it’s easy. Becoming a contractor means that you are confident enough in your skill set that you decide to go it alone. The better your work, the higher the chance that you will secure more work throughout 2017.
