This is a guest blog, written for us by Cecily Snell at Churchill Knight & Associates Ltd., who are an accounting firm specialising in contractor accounts. As you can see, Cecily thinks contracting is a fab idea – if you’d like to know more about it, check out last week’s blog post here. – Jess.

Are you worried about finding a job post-graduating? Have you ever considered becoming a contractor? Do you know what a contractor is and how this may benefit you and your career?

Read this blog to find out what a contractor is and how you can go into employment as a contractor once you have graduated.

What is a contractor and why is it different to permanent employment?

Being a contractor essentially means selling your skills and services on a contractual basis as well as helping to pay back your student loan. These contracts are usually paid per hour or per day and they are valid for the period of time which you agree to. So, imagine you come across an exciting job advertisement relating to your degree but it is only a 6-12 month contract; contracting will allow you to take advantage of such opportunities. Choosing permanent employment will offer more security than contracting and develop skills working in an organised environment.

How will becoming a contractor benefit me and my career?

• Higher Income – potential earning is higher than similar job roles in permanent positions.
• Flexibility – you can choose when to work and are not restricted to company holiday structures (if you want to continue having the majority of holiday in the summer this could be possible!).
• Networking – as a student you will know how important networking can be. Note if you don’t already have a LinkedIn account – create one! Working with multiple professionals and businesses means you will meet an array of colleagues, more than in a permanent position, all of which may be useful networking contacts.
• Skills gained – further to the vast network you will have following contracting work, you will also have a wider skill set due to the different contracts and businesses you may get the chance to work with.
• Utilising degree specific skills – if you have learnt specific skills e.g. GIS skills in your Environmental Geography BSc degree, it can be frustrating not immediately putting these to use in a professional manner, contracting will allow you to utilise these skills quicker than permanent employment.

Which steps can I take to become a contractor?

Becoming a contractor straight from university can be daunting but it is actually easier than you think. First and foremost make sure you have an excellent CV – this goes for contracting and permanent employment. It is useful to distribute your CV to websites such as CV Library as well as recruitment agencies. It goes without saying when searching for work be proactive! Many students may think a job will fall into their laps, but it is important to actively search for jobs and there are jobsites specifically for contractors. It’s also useful to look to your current network. You may know friends or friends parents who work in your industry and reaching out to these may benefit you although be sure to be subtle in your approach.

There are more steps involved in becoming a contractor including setting up your contractor company usually operated through a limited company. Don’t hesitate to get in contact with Churchill Knight & Associates Ltd for a greater understanding of contracting, and our expert advisors will answer any questions you may have.

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If you have any questions about contracting or other forms of freelance, or if you’d like to talk about setting up your own business, please don’t hesitate to pop into the Careers space in Holgate to talk to one of your friendly Careers, Placements & Student Opportunities team!