6 month contract or risk extension?

[AMH]

Hi all,

currently working my first ever contract, was initially for 3 months that ended in January but has been extended until of April (no new contract signed though).

They have said at end of April it will probably be extended again. However, I have seen a 6 month contract which is more money (but would have to stay away) - but its the 6 month that is appealing.

is it worth jumping to the 6 month contract or hoping for extension...........

Seen doesnt mean you will get the position - especially after the agency has played their games.

Apply for the other position, then IF you get offered make a choice based on whatever factors are important to you.

[aoxomoxoa]

Also, as this is your first contract you'll look like a better bet to future clients/agents if you can demonstrate sticking power and that you're sufficiently useful to get offered one (or preferably more) extensions.

[FatLazyContractor]

Also, as this is your first contract you'll look like a better bet to future clients/agents if you can demonstrate sticking power and that you're sufficiently useful to get offered one (or preferably more) extensions.

He hasn't been offered an extension yet. There is only a probability that client will. Which could mean, the client may not extend.

[JohnJizzle]

Thanks for the replies. My current contract has already been extended once (which I am now working) I just didn't get anything in writing.

This is my first experience of contracting so wanted some advice from others with more experience - who may have had to make similar choices.

[psychocandy]

Thanks for the replies. My current contract has already been extended once (which I am now working) I just didn't get anything in writing.

This is my first experience of contracting so wanted some advice from others with more experience - who may have had to make similar choices.

You turned up after the original contract term finished and you havent got extension in writing?

[JohnJizzle]

You turned up after the original contract term finished and you havent got extension in writing?

yeah I was told they can get rid of me any time anyway and If i havent signed anything I can walk away any time rather than the new end of contract

[psychocandy]

yeah I was told they can get rid of me any time anyway and If i havent signed anything I can walk away any time rather than the new end of contract

Did the agent tell you that?

Negative points to not having a contract:-
1) It could go all wrong and they decide not to even pay you leaving you high and dry in court.
2) You cant just walk away - by turning up you'll find you've probably agreed to same terms as last contract.
3) Insurance issues. No contract could be a big problem for your insurance.

Honestly, dont do it. At least get an email from client and/or agency.

[JohnJizzle]

thanks pyscho - no my friends in recruitment told me it ....I didn't go through an agency to get the job

I do have an email saying it's being extended. Never even thought about the insurance

[Willapp]

yeah I was told they can get rid of me any time anyway and If i havent signed anything I can walk away any time rather than the new end of contract

This is highly irregular. Regardless of any notice period in your contract (which may indeed be 0 days, i.e. immediate termination), a signed contract is your legal protection for getting paid for the work you do. With no contract, in theory your client can no only ditch you at any time but what legal footing do you have to force payment for time you've worked? None.

[psychocandy]

thanks pyscho - no my friends in recruitment told me it ....I didn't go through an agency to get the job

I do have an email saying it's being extended. Never even thought about the insurance

Email is probably good enough then as long as the first contract is ok.