A Helpful Guide To Sourcing New Contracts

Whilst recruitment agencies are often the first choice for contractors to help them find new contracts, it is possible to find your own contract without using a recruitment agency. Although, it is perhaps and daunting task, it is often seen as a challenge. This article will suggest some ways in which you can help yourself find your new contract.

1. Networking – For anyone in business, networking is great for developing leads and contacts. Get to know as many contractors as you can as often companies needing more contractors will ask current contractors if they know of any. LinkedIn is an online networking site that can help you re-connect with past and present colleagues and classmates and also power your career by discovering inside connections. It is important you create your own LinkedIn profile which promotes you and your business achievements as well as details what sort of contracting work you are seeking.
2. Contacts – To succeed at ‘going it alone’ and finding your new contract, you need to optmise your existing contacts and also build a new set of contacts. It is important to remember that potential clients could be anywhere, so do not be afraid to discuss your contract services in both business and social settings. By thinking about everyone you have previously worked with, you may find some could be potential clients or they may know someone who is. Don’t be afraid to pick up the telephone and contact them.
3. Online Presence – It is crucial you create an online presence. By having a LinkedIn profile, you already have an online presence but enhance that by perhaps creating a website which details all your past employment, business achievements, what you are looking for and what you can offer to a potential client. It should look professional and keyword friendly so a client searching for a specific job title will find your website. Also, as a recent article discusses, use Twitter and other social networking sites to search for contracts as well as state what you’re skills are.
4. Stationery – Ensure you have professional business cards and hand them out to friends and contacts you may have so they can spread the word too. The cards should have all your contact details as well as a brief description of what services you offer.

We hope the guide has provided you with some helpful tips to find your next contract. Independent Contractor Services can offer advice to anyone considering becoming self employed or a contractor. They can take you through what’s involved in running your own business, as a sole trader or limited company, or working through their umbrella service. Call 0800 195 3750 for full details of the benefits.