How Is The London Financial Contracting Market?

[ChimpMaster]

Financial institutions are bearing the brunt of le crunch. The bank where I am at has largely escaped the crisis and even they are making cutbacks in order to prepare for the ensuing wider slow down. And there will be a slow down, no matter what central (b)ankers try to do about it.

I am in agreement with most of the replies here. Generally I don't believe it's a great time to get into contracting, especially in support sectors. Even if you're good and have niche skills, you will not be irreplaceable.

I get the feeling that my contracting run is about to be thoroughly tested this year, and so if it comes to it I may revert back into a permie role if need be, to tide me over. If I was a permie right now, I would not be considering taking a contract unless -
- I didn't need financial security for several months
- I knew that I could fall back into a permie role if I wanted to
- I was offered a long term contract at a great rate, to cover the risk

Having said that, if you're great at what you do, and even better at selling it, then there is always a market out there. Either way - good luck and do keep us posted.

[BrilloPad]

It will be very interesting to see what happens when budgets come out in March/April. I still reckon they will be good.

[grey_lady]

Op, dont forget to take everything you read on here with a pinch of salt :-)

[BrilloPad]

Op, dont forget to take everything you read on here with a pinch of salt :-)

bucket

[bobhope]

I can't imagine that in support the premium of contract over permie being that much. Factor in the risk aspect, is it worth it?

[BrilloPad]

I can't imagine that in support the premium of contract over permie being that much. Factor in the risk aspect, is it worth it?

The bonuses are the big unknown.