Contract Extension

**Freddy3000** · 3 February 2005, 14:04

Personally I'm always happy to take a longer term contract with a modest raise - it looks better on your CV & even if you spend just a few weeks out of work looking for that higher rate you're still several grand down on the deal, so it'd have to be a pretty high rate to allow you to catch up.

**BlasterBates** · 3 February 2005, 14:58

Its a good point, unless you immediately have another offer you have to calculate how much you lose by waiting for another contract. 4 -8 weeks is around 10% loss on your annual earnings.

Do a bit of background to find out what the rates are in your area. There is certainly no harm in trying for a modest rise (few percent) but you're unlikely to get a major hike.

If you want a significant rate rise you need an alternative offer, so it is better to plan for this about a month before the extension comes up.

**peckman** · 3 February 2005, 17:32

I am in the same boat. Wanting more money because rates are rising, but like where I work and have been offered a 6 month extension. Been here 9 months already too..

I took a chance now that the offer is coming. I asked my agent for more money, he has been ringing HR and my manager apparently on my behalf.

The bottom line is..they want me for another 6 months, I want to stay. If they do not pay or reject the request, then I want some of my agents commission..simple as. The agent can either lose what he earns from me for good...or take a hit and give me what I want.

In this thread, people are right, its risky business asking for more money...and you could the loss of the contract.

If you don't ask..you don't get!

**reccon** · 3 February 2005, 17:45

The bottom line is..they want me for another 6 months, I want to stay. If they do not pay or reject the request, then I want some of my agents commission..simple as. The agent can either lose what he earns from me for good...or take a hit and give me what I want.

that way of thinking doesn't always work - what if the agent say no and replaces you with someone else who he can make all the commission on?? My advice - if you have a lengthy extension on the table then by all means ask for a raise. if it doesn't come then just carry on working at the rate you are on and look elsewhere while you are earning!! Just a thought!!

**DodgyAgent** · 4 February 2005, 09:05

Agency Bulls***

what if the agent say no and replaces you with someone else who he can make all the commission on

I would like to nail this old cliche once and for all:

1. Dont overestimate the power that an agency has
2. If they threaten to replace you not only is it extremely difficult to find a good replacement with the right skills and personality, but it is also likely that the requirement will go to the other suppliers and not just your agency
3. If the client likes you and wants to keep you, it is a huge shag to go through more interviews and get the newbie up to speed with the project.

**cooperinliverp00l** · 8 February 2005, 12:52

Re: Agency Bulls***

On the subject of Agency margins do they by law have to disclose their margin.

If not is there anyway you can try and get the figure out of them (except bashing them with a baseball bat)

Any questions that are going to trigger a response

Contract Extension