Virtually any country in the world will have a thriving expat contractor community. However, there are some issues to take into account when choosing to contract abroad. If your contract is within the European Union and you are an EU citizen then you will not require a Visa or work permit but outside of the EU, it is likely you will require a Visa or work permit.

If you have a transferable skill set in IT, engineering or construction there are many opportunities to work with client companies almost anywhere in the world. It is now as easy to identify contracts in Australia, the Middle East or the USA as you would in the UK.

The internet is your most useful resource here and will be the key to sourcing your new contract abroad. Embassies and consulates can be a very useful source of information for both contract work and regulations about working in the country in question. Major importers of UK labour, such as Australia, Canada and the USA, also have lists of skills shortages.

ICS have a number of accountancy options available to contractors working abroad. For more information please email info@ics.me.uk or telephone 0800 195 3750.

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.