Long term contract with 60% market rate.. Or Trying to find better new contract...?

[Darren_Test]

Hi,

I am in testing side & about to complete an year long contract though the rate is only 60% of market rate - comparable to rate I enjoyed 6-7 years back.

I have the option of hanging on here for another year or two with same rate or to look for a new challenge. Not sure what’s best as I am not fully aware of testing market condition now. Any advice..??

Also what’s the current market rate for some one with 10+ years testing experience looking for Consultant/ Lead/ Management testing roles? Thanks.

[b0redom]

Hi,

I am in testing side & about to complete an year long contract though the rate is only 60% of market rate

Market rate is whatever you can bill.

I have the option of hanging on here for another year or two with same rate or to look for a new challenge. Not sure what’s best as I am not fully aware of testing market condition now. Any advice..??

Can't you negotiate a rate increase? You know the internal systems etc now. A contract is only as long as your notice period. Do not believe the customer if they are saying yeah, it's for a year. Circumstances may change. In the exceptionally unlikely event you have a 1 year notice clause, you might want to investigate IR35 compliance!

Also what’s the current market rate for some one with 10+ years testing experience looking for Consultant/ Lead/ Management testing roles? Thanks.

Jobserve.com

HTH

b0redom

[northernladuk]

B0redom makes some good points about market rates. The question I would ask of you is are you happy with what you get and the security <cough>. If you are happy stay, if not go.

The one thing I would add is that you will fall foul of the 24 month rule which may make a difference that will tip you one way or the other. You don't say how far you travel etc. If it is a lot you could actually be taking a cut when it kicks in. Check up on the rule and your contract dates, it may be a tangible element to help you with your decision.

[Wobblyheed]

No less than £400 oop north and at least £500 in that London

[Darren_Test]

Market rate is whatever you can bill.



Can't you negotiate a rate increase? You know the internal systems etc now. A contract is only as long as your notice period. Do not believe the customer if they are saying yeah, it's for a year. Circumstances may change. In the exceptionally unlikely event you have a 1 year notice clause, you might want to investigate IR35 compliance!



Jobserve.com

HTH

b0redom

B0redom makes some good points about market rates. The question I would ask of you is are you happy with what you get and the security <cough>. If you are happy stay, if not go.

The one thing I would add is that you will fall foul of the 24 month rule which may make a difference that will tip you one way or the other. You don't say how far you travel etc. If it is a lot you could actually be taking a cut when it kicks in. Check up on the rule and your contract dates, it may be a tangible element to help you with your decision.

Thanks Guys..

Unfortunately the end client (HM Gov Dept.) or the IT service provider not worried about quality or delivery or knowledge or project delay..!! Keen on head count only.!! So no chance of any rate negotiations on that count. In fact this place looks like a retirement home with average age ~50+. A few ladies here are the only grace

Contracts are always 3-6 months only, then extensions. Could be a break of few days in between contracts as well.

[Wanderer]

The end client not worried about quality or delivery or knowledge or project delay..!! Keen on head count only.!! So no chance of any rate negotiations on that count. In fact this place looks like a retirement home with average age ~50+.

There's your answer then.

You're rotting away at that job, get off your butt and get back into the market at your proper rate.

Alternatively, sit back and enjoy the easy ride. Sounds stress free permietractor job and the money must be keeping you afloat so sit tight.

I really don't know how we are suppose to recommend one option over the other.

[Darren_Test]

There's your answer then.

You're rotting away at that job, get off your butt and get back into the market at your proper rate.

Alternatively, sit back and enjoy the easy ride. Sounds stress free permietractor job and the money must be keeping you afloat so sit tight.

I really don't know how we are suppose to recommend one option over the other.

Ok..Thanks. Some how I am enjoying lazy, 'don't care' attitude of guys here. I know till a year back outside world was very competitive & 'results-driven'. Did any change in that ?? Or just the place I am in is Only like this...??