Agencies - is there a better way?

[jamesbrown]

I guess the initial instinct is if there were no agents, I'd get paid more, the client would pay less.

In reality, a large percentage of clients use agents for very good reasons, regardless of what we think of them.

And they do have their upsides for contractors too; in terms of getting paid on time, for example.

[TheFaQQer]

Does it really matter weather you go direct or via an agency, so long as you are happy with the rate? I like using agencies as I have good relationships with a couple and they find me some nice work. Good clients, and they always keep my rate where I want it.

Even when I take 6 months off, i contact them and within a week I'm interviewing

Have you tried not opting out with an agency who insists on you opting out? You don't have that if you are direct.

[jmo21]

And they do have their upsides for contractors too; in terms of getting paid on time, for example.

absolutely!

A lot of newbie contractors don't see this though and just the agent as taking a slice of money that "should" be theirs!

Here's a strange one while we're talking about agents costing us and clients money.....

With my current contract, I asked for £x per day (which would have been my highest ever rate), agent said, "hmm, I think we can get you £X+£50.

So they definitely cost their client money, while making me more money than I asked for

[quackhandle]

absolutely!

A lot of newbie contractors don't see this though and just the agent as taking a slice of money that "should" be theirs!

Here's a strange one while we're talking about agents costing us and clients money.....

With my current contract, I asked for £x per day (which would have been my highest ever rate), agent said, "hmm, I think we can get you £X+£50.

So they definitely cost their client money, while making me more money than I asked for

But for every one of those there's the "Sorry, just got off the phone to the client, there's no movement on rate."

Pimpspeak: I've not contacted the client I have just went and made a tea then called you back and tried to fleece you for more wonga."

Yes it's a game and you get better with practice.

qh