Attitude to being available out of hours

[SimonMac]

I don't like the idea of changing my number every gig, though. Sometimes, as much as I hate to admit it, it's easier when an agent rings me because they know I'm coming available, rather than me having to seek out the work.

Maybe it's because I'm inherently lazy.

Agents I have worked with are on my Linkedin which is usually where the first indication I am looking for a new contrat goes and my email always stays the same

[Ignis Fatuus]

I don't like the idea of changing my number every gig, though. Sometimes, as much as I hate to admit it, it's easier when an agent rings me because they know I'm coming available, rather than me having to seek out the work.

Maybe it's because I'm inherently lazy.

WHS. For a freelance worker, putting yourself out of touch looks too much like putting yourself out of business.

[BolshieBastard]

Agents I have worked with are on my Linkedin which is usually where the first indication I am looking for a new contrat goes and my email always stays the same

Ah! So you're one of those who put those 'SimonMac is available and seeking my next challenging contract!' updates to your profile?

[psychocandy]

So the client expects you to be on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you accept it?

More fool you.

Which is why I would argue there is a thin line between looking like an awkward twonk who 'works to rule' and someone who gets mugged by the client...

[psychocandy]

Extension with another 50 a day?
Perspective.

Of course depends on how regular it is.

Contractor: You've called me x times over the last 3 months so I want £50 extra per day now.
Client: Umm, no money in the budget. sorry.

[The Spartan]

Me personally, I'm not available out of work hours but should the need arise it wouldn't be for free some people may disagree and might work a little extra for free in the hopes of an extension but that just isn't me.

[Pondlife]

Depends on what point in the project it is but it shouldn't be the norm.

Normally my view is that just because you are, for example, in the US doesn't mean I am available outside UK hours +/- 1 to suit your times.

That said, if it's a critical point in the project and it's something only I can answer, I'm not that bothered as it's easier than walking into a warzone the next day.

[Mav]

The alternative is the loss of the contract as the client may claim one is not a team player

Indeed

[Ignis Fatuus]

Me personally, I'm not available out of work hours but should the need arise it wouldn't be for free ...

That's fair enough. The deal you're making with the client seems to be particularly transparent and up-front. You give them what is in the contract, they pay you what is in the contract.

If the client presumes that some free work will be available, perhaps he should put that in the contract!

[Ignis Fatuus]

The alternative is the loss of the contract as the client may claim one is not a team player

I'm sorry, but I didn't go contracting in order to have someone feel able to demand something that's not mentioned in the contract, and then blame me and my character for not providing it.