Would you ever leave a contract early?

**jmo21** · 13 August 2015, 10:31

I guess I would have a tipping point eventually, not sure what it would be though.

And it would vary depending on the contract I would be leaving. If I hated the work, the travel was difficult or whatever, that would lower my price.

To give you an example, I'm not driving just now so travel is a pain, my contract is a decent distance away, isn't the greatest for me tech-wise, BUT it is my highest rate ever by some distance, and it's a really nice team to work with, and I can work from home at least once a week which mitigates the travelling issue.

**bluedrop** · 13 August 2015, 10:32

Hmm.... difficult one. but I wouldnt jump unless its a sinking ship. Im currently jumping mid contract - for the first time in 6yrs.

**Eirikur** · 13 August 2015, 10:34

Seriously considering it right now, after being sidelined when I came back form holiday, but am not jumping until I have landed something else.

**northernladuk** · 13 August 2015, 11:03

There are always situations where it's has to be considered. It's a balance of professionalism and reward. There is always a point where the reward will far outweigh the professionalism argument. Each person has a different set of criteria and many won't value the professionalism so small rewards would tempt them. Each to his own. I'd be uncomfortable in a position where the reward tempts me but I'd go if it was right. Big changes in rate, working experience and interest in the gig at a known client makes for a very tempting package I must say. Jumping just because it's 20 quid a day more at an unknown client is most certainly not.

If the package is that good, it's done properly and it's only done very occasionally I don't think it will harm the long term.

**WTFH** · 13 August 2015, 11:26

Yes I would, but generally when I do it is because it's near the end of the contract, the work has dried up and I have been offered something new (not that I have gone out looking for something). When those three happen, I will discuss with the current client along the lines of "hey, are you thinking of giving me an extension or a new bit of work to go on?" If they say no, or are unsure, then I tell them that I have been offered something else, but they have first refusal.
If I have a good relationship with the client, the discussion can be honest and can make sure you leave on good terms.

...saying that, the last contract I left early was due to the tulip agency not paying me on time.

**Peej** · 13 August 2015, 16:33

Never have

Never have and probably never will. I can't defend it to any great level and wouldn't think badly of anyone that did but, in my line of work, other contracts aren't always quickly available and - a bit old fashioned but it still sticks - it seems a bit unprofessional to me.

Been thrown out of one or two mind...

**woohoo** · 14 August 2015, 07:15

I have left a contract early, well actually worked the notice period. Hated the contract, the work was not as discussed and the code was horrible. Quite stressful and felt like I wasn't doing a good job.

An old client contacted me so I had something lined up. It wasn't an easy decision and my name is probably mud with that client but life is too short.

**NibblyPig** · 14 August 2015, 07:23

I'd have no qualms about leaving. Only reasons I wouldn't would if be my departure would completely screw over the client, or if it would burn a bridge I cared about. Or if it was a breach of contract.

In 5 years will you look back and wish you'd done it? If it gives you a happier life with the WFH and more money, I would say you'd regret not doing it.

Firing up the potential Regret-o-meter is how I make most decisions.

**expat** · 14 August 2015, 07:32

Leaving a contract because of factors within that contract is one thing; jumping to another contract because the other gives you more money is something else, and it's the same something else regardless of whether it's £5 a day more or double the money.

Would you ever leave a contract early?