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4 Reasons You Should Become an IT Contractor

November 27, 2012

York’s blog recently spoke about IT contracting from the clients’ side, describing the top 4 reasons to use an IT contractor. But why would you want to become a contractor and what are the benefits of contract work? There are plenty of reasons to explain the growing number of contractors in the IT industry. Here are a few of them:

IT Contractors report higher satisfaction

86 percent of contractors say that their current level of job satisfaction is very good or excellent compared to 73 percent of permanent workers. A question that professionals often ask is “Aren’t contractors constantly worried about finding new work?” While this issue will never completely go away, IT contractors are a very hot commodity right now. What’s more, contractors feel they have more control over their career. Contractors’ independence along with overall job satisfaction not only makes them more efficient workers, it makes them happy professionals.

IT Contractors play to their strengths 

TechRepublic contributor Chip Camden explains, if you want to work in contracting you need to be an expert in your field. “Don’t be just another {technology-du-jour} consultant. If you can become an expert in a particular segment of the industry, you’ll rarely lack for work that’s profitable and interesting (unless you get tired of that segment).” IT contractors don’t try to be a jack-of-all-trades all of the time. Instead, they are the source of knowledge about a certain subject, concept, language, etc. Take a look at York’s blog post about the top IT certifications to find certifications that demonstrate your expertise.

IT Contractors earn more

One of the biggest incentives to becoming an IT contractor is simple: you’ll be paid more for your work! Perhaps even more important, you’re being paid what you feel you’re worth. 60 percent of contract workers strongly agree with the statement “I am paid what I’m worth,” compared to only 42 percent of permanent workers, according to a Randstand study. While you may have to pay for insurance coverage, that also depends on whether or not you are self-incorporated, work through a consulting firm, and the benefits your client offers.

IT Contractors are taking a central role in IT departments’ hiring strategy

The demand for IT contractors is growing, with 73 percent of contract workers rating their growth potential in their current gig as good or excellent. According to the same Randstand study, over two-thirds of companies say they plan to increase their hiring of contractors in 2013. With a growing role, flexibility, and higher job satisfaction, we will be seeing more IT professionals turn to contract work in the future.

Are you an IT contractor/consultant? Why did you decide to become one? Share your story in the comments section below.

Posted By: James Sweeney

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