The IT world is changing fast and so is the way people work in it. More and more skilled professionals are stepping away from permanent roles and choosing to contract instead. If you’re thinking about making the switch – or you’re just curious about what contracting involves – here’s what makes it such an appealing option.
1. The potential to earn more
Contractors typically charge higher day rates than the equivalent permanent salary. That’s partly because you bring specialist skills to short-term projects and partly because you don’t get the benefits that come with a permanent role like annual leave, sick pay etc. So if you’ve got in-demand tech expertise, contracting can seriously boost your earnings.
2. You get real flexibility
This is the big one for most people. As a contractor, you have much more say over when you work, where you work and what projects you take on. Want to take a month off between contracts? You can. Only interested in remote roles? You choose. It’s a level of control you just don’t get in a permanent job. It’s understandable why having the freedom and flexibility is so attractive for contractors.
3. You’ll work on varied projects
Instead of being stuck in the same role for years, as a contractor, you get to move between different projects and industries. One contract might be in finance, the next in retail or healthcare. This variety keeps things interesting while diversifying your learning and builds a strong CV.
4. Your skills stay current
IT contractors are often brought in to work on new systems or the latest tech. That means you’re constantly learning and staying ahead of the curve rather than getting comfortable with legacy systems. Over time, you build a toolkit that keeps you competitive and relevant.
5. You’ll build a strong network
Every new contract means new people – developers, project managers, CTOs, hiring managers. But it’s not just the people you work with day-to-day, good recruiters become part of your network too, and they’re often the ones who know about opportunities before they’re advertised. These connections – both the clients you work for and the recruiters who place you – often lead to your next role, and the one after that. Your network becomes one of your most valuable assets as a contractor.
6. You’re in the driver’s seat
Contracting means you’re essentially self-employed. With this independence you negotiate your own rates, pick your clients and decide where your career goes. It’s not for everyone, but if you like autonomy, it’s incredibly rewarding.
7. You can test the water
Not sure if you have the right level of skill? Or if there’s a market for your particular skills? Contracting allows you to test new roles and industries with less risk if it doesn’t work out. Similarly, it allows you to also test particular companies in case you are seeking longer-term or permanent employment.
8. You can actually take proper breaks
Yes, some contracts are intense. But between them, you can take time off without worrying about using up holiday allowance or getting approval. Travel, recharge, work on a side project – it’s entirely up to you.
Contracting isn’t without its challenges. You need to be comfortable with uncertainty, manage your own finances and stay on top of finding your next role. But for a lot of IT professionals, the benefits – higher pay, flexibility, constant learning – make it well worth it. If you want to stay at the cutting edge of tech and have more control over your career, contracting could be exactly what you’re looking for.
Hanson Regan work with many clients that offer contract roles for SAP and IT specialists.
If you’re a client that is in search for experts, contact us now or find out more here.
For those seeking new contract roles, see what opportunities we have now.
