Best strategy for getting a contract?

[TheFaQQer]

Yeah, it's not the content i'm primarily interested in, but rather the structure, and general presentation of the CV. Could be that something is wrong here as mine looks pretty much like a permie CV minus the hobbies section.

Some posters here have offered in the past to have a look at CVs and see what they think of them. DodgyAgent offered to do it at one stage, but if you aren't in his recruitment area then you probably won't get a response back.

There are professional CV review services available, but I'd steer well clear of them. If you have been claiming JSA for a while, then some Job Centres will provide CV writing help - RichardCranium had a good workshop that helped him out, but you'd need to make sure that the person you are dealing with understands the work that you do.

Some friendly agents might do a review - I've had a couple pass comment on mine and I've made some minor tweaks based on that.

Ask some successful contractors that you know if they wouldn't mind having a look over your CV - one project I did a few years back three of us swapped CVs and reviewed wording, style and content (or lack) between us to see how that helped.

There are ways of finding out if you are on the right track, you just have to see which one works best for you.

[TheFaQQer]

Yes, just wanted to get rid of permie calls.

You'd be better off just handling the calls by explaining politely that you are looking for contract work - they may cover both areas and bear you in mind if something suitable comes up.

It's a good idea, but then it looks like i'm chasing something, and I don't really want to chase, but want to be chased by recruiters.

If you don't want to chase, then don't chase. But don't moan that you aren't getting anywhere if you are expecting agents to chase you when they have plenty of other fish in the sea to haul in.

[northernladuk]

If you don't get a gig before the warchest runs out you might be thankful for them for sending permie roles.....

[eek]

Yes, just wanted to get rid of permie calls.



It's a good idea, but then it looks like i'm chasing something, and I don't really want to chase, but want to be chased by recruiters.

No it doesn't it by ringing an agent it means that you confirm you CV will have been seen by the agent. It means that you are no longer bottom of the pile and also shows that you are proactive which is what agents want contractors to be.... Then make sure you know why

And if you want an excuse just say that you believe Jobserve is playing up and want to ensure they have received it.

[gabox01]

If you don't get a gig before the warchest runs out you might be thankful for them for sending permie roles.....

Thanks, my warchest is in good condition.
I have received at leat 50 permie offers so far, so i think it's more than enough.

[SussexSeagull]

I think a lot of people think there is a silver bullet for getting a new contract but I tend to find making sure the CV is a fair representation of yourself (although the days of a killer CV getting you in the door have long gone, hitting the job sites, dealing with (mostly) time wasting phone calls, tapping any contacts and working LinkedIn eventually pays dividends if rinsed and repeated enough times.

Market conditions and the need for your skillset are the main factors, IMHO.