Getting in to contracting

GETTING INTO

–

CONTRACTING

Why Consider Contracting?

Contracting can be a highly rewarding career choice, offering flexibility, variety, and often higher pay rates compared to permanent roles. As a contractor, you have the freedom to choose your projects, work with diverse clients, and develop a broad skill set.

Benefits of Contracting

Flexibility: Set your own hours and work from locations that suit you.
Variety: Gain experience across multiple industries and projects.
Higher Earnings: Contractors often earn more per hour than permanent employees.
Skill Development: Work on a range of projects to enhance your skill set.
Networking: Build a diverse professional network.

How to Get Started

Assess Your Skills and Experience
- Identify your core competencies and the industries where you can add value.
- Update your CV to highlight your skills, achievements, and relevant experience.
Set Up as a Contractor
- Decide on your business structure: sole trader, limited company, or umbrella company.
- Obtain necessary insurances such as professional indemnity and public liability.
- Ensure you have a business bank account and manage your finances effectively.
Find Contracting Opportunities
- Register with specialist recruitment agencies like Fort Search.
- Network within your industry to uncover hidden opportunities.
- Use job boards and professional social networks to find contracts.
Prepare for Interviews
- Research the client and understand the project requirements.
- Be ready to discuss how your skills and experience can benefit the client.
- Prepare a portfolio of your work to showcase your expertise.

Working with Fort Search

At FortSearch, we specialise in connecting skilled contractors with leading companies. Our dedicated team will support you through every step of the contracting process, from finding the right opportunities to negotiating contracts.

- Personalised Service: We take the time to understand your skills, experience, and career goals.
- Exclusive Opportunities: Access to roles not advertised elsewhere.
- Ongoing Support: Guidance on contracts, compliance, and professional development.

What our candidates say

Daniel helped me find the best possible opportunity based on my skills and aspirations. He assisted me throughout the recruitment process, with a friendly approach and an uncommon availability I recommend Daniel to any IT professional who wants to find the right job opportunity to make a change in his career and any manager who needs to find the best resource to hire.

Known Dan for a couple of years now as he liked to keep me informed of interesting roles in the Manchester area. He made a point of meeting me in person to understand what I was looking for and then only called me with very selected, relevant roles instead of the usual bombardment that others might try. When the ideal role did come along, we met again twice to prepare for the interviews and he came with detailed insight in to what the company would be looking for. I would have no hesitation in recommending Dan to both IT staff who are looking to move on, and to companies who are looking for someone to bring new people in. He's also a thoroughly pleasant chap to go for a couple of beers with. If Carlsberg made recruitment consultants...

I have been in touch with a good number of recruiters over the last 20 months, having changed roles twice in that time, and not one that I would recommend more highly than Dan. He demonstrates an excellent understanding of both the employers and the applicants needs, so doesn't waste the time of either with "long shots". He does however have sufficient technical understanding to know when a candidate could be a good fit for a role even when the key words might not match up 100%. Dan is always a pleasure to speak to. Friendly and good humoured, but focused on finding the candidate for the right position, and making sure that as a candidate you are well prepared when the right opportunity comes along. One of the best!

James is one of the most enthusiastic and professional recruiters I have ever worked with. He served prominent value to reach my goal by taking care of every steps of mine. He does not only collect the usual information for making a profile and organizing interviews, but he prepares you for them, shares hints and tips in order to have a successful interview. He paid special attention on my weaknesses as well and lifted my confidence level so that I overcame the obstacles. Moreover I got well detailed relocation brochure. I highly recommend him!

I was lucky enough to be contacted by James while in search for my next developer job. James was truly committed in helping me succeed and got me prepared for the upcoming interviews, by scheduling pre interview preparation sessions and giving me feedback. His organisation and attention to detail was also top level! He stayed close to me throughout the whole process from pre interview to my first working day. I highly recommend James! Thank you so much for everything.

Looking to get started?

Submit your info below