How to Decline A Contract Extension?

[jmo21]

I've heard so many stories of agencies being so poor in their communications with clients, or even simply flat out lying to end client about a contractors end date.

I've not been in this situation myself, but if I was, I'd let the agent know (in writing by post is what my current contract requires), and then immediately inform my end client contact myself.

[Troll]

Sorry if this is a bit of a numpty question.
Ok, been contracting for the past 2 years, and the first 3 contracts were all great, kept getting extensions etc.
Now, I took on an initial 1 month contract with a new company, and they have offered me an additional month.
In the meantime (same day as the extension offer), I have been offered a 6 month contract with another company.
Now, I know for business and personal reasons the 6 month is the better offer.
So, I need to politely decline the 1 month extension offer, which is just waiting for me to sign.
My question is, who do I approach to decline the offer, the client or the agency?
I've never been in the position where I've had to let the client down by not extending. I know I have to put my business head on, but just wonder how to handle the situation?
Any advice appreciated.

Just slip out the back, Jack, make a new plan, Stan
Don't need to be coy, Roy, just listen to me
Hop on the bus, Gus, don't need to discuss much
Just drop off the key, Lee, and get yourself free

HTH

[Tealer]

Just slip out the back, Jack, make a new plan, Stan
Don't need to be coy, Roy, just listen to me
Hop on the bus, Gus, don't need to discuss much
Just drop off the key, Lee, and get yourself free

HTH

Well, the deed is done. Client and agent quite understanding, so we move on.

[twocontract]

Agree with much of the above. Would add that declining a contract extension offer is one of the more enjoyable aspects of contracting. It means that you're on the front foot and taking control of your business. The opposite is when you reach the last day of your current contract desperately hoping the client may decide to extend.

[psychocandy]

Agree with much of the above. Would add that declining a contract extension offer is one of the more enjoyable aspects of contracting. It means that you're on the front foot and taking control of your business. The opposite is when you reach the last day of your current contract desperately hoping the client may decide to extend.

Personally, I can't wait for the day with my current client where they fanny around again, then on the last day they offer me a month extension and I turn it down because I've got something else lined up. Then watch them go nuts....

Alas, this hasn't happened yet so I've got to bite my tongue and take the money.

[BolshieBastard]

Do everything contract related through the Agent, otherwise wire can get crossed. You don't have a contract with the client.

Utter rubbish. How long have you been contracting?

[proggy]

Utter rubbish. How long have you been contracting?

Every contract I have had, and every contractor I have known has had their contract with the Agency not the Client. Are you even a contractor? You sound more like a temp with a bad attitude.

[BolshieBastard]

Every contract I have had, and every contractor I have known has had their contract with the Agency not the Client. Are you even a contractor? You sound more like a temp with a bad attitude.

WOOOOOOSSSSSSHHHHHHH!

[proggy]

WOOOOOOSSSSSSHHHHHHH!

Ummmmm OK.

[billybiro]

Your 6 month contract is only as long as the notice period within it. Dont assume your 6 months will last 6 months just because that is what the contract period is.

This is, of course, completely true but a rather redundant point to make.

His other contract is for 1 month and there is no guarantee that that contract will run it's full course either.

Given the choice of either, it's probably safer to go for the 6 monther as there's a fair likelihood that it'll last at least 1 month (i.e. at least as long as his other contract) and probably quite a bit longer.