Probationary Period

[BrilloPad]

Bloody know nothing clients. No wonder the revenue thinks we are all employees.

It is hardly the clients fault is it? They are just in business to do what they have to do. They fight their battles - we fight ours.

[NotAllThere]

Progressive were a few years ago doing this thing with Yellow Pages, where there would be no interview, but you'd work for four days initially. If Yellow thought you were any good, they'd keep you, and you'd get paid. If not, you left with nothing.

I wouldn't do it.

[HairyArsedBloke]

Thought so. This is a funny one

1. Agency phoned regarding a role, with very little detail
2. Agency sends exclusivity email (See "here")
3. After a few days agency calls saying well done you've got the gig! I say what?! Without any sort of interview?, Yes they say, erm ok I say you'll need to send me full details of the client including contact details and what the role is. Had to prompt the agent again and they sent me a 1 liner with a name, later that day they sent me a blank contract and could I fax it back immediately
4. Later that day agent called asking for 2 timeslots when I can be available for a telephone interview today
5. No phone calls today from the client

The whole thing has been highly amusing.

This sounds like that "History of the World backwards" series on the BBC by Rob Newman.

[The Lone Gunman]

There is always a probationary period whether declared or not.
Get them to rewrite it as a short term first contract.
Point out to them that it is pointless anyway as they have a notice period to get rid of you.
Bloody know nothing clients. No wonder the revenue thinks we are all employees.

[Badger]

Thought so. This is a funny one

1. Agency phoned regarding a role, with very little detail
2. Agency sends exclusivity email (See "here")
3. After a few days agency calls saying well done you've got the gig! I say what?! Without any sort of interview?, Yes they say, erm ok I say you'll need to send me full details of the client including contact details and what the role is. Had to prompt the agent again and they sent me a 1 liner with a name, later that day they sent me a blank contract and could I fax it back immediately
4. Later that day agent called asking for 2 timeslots when I can be available for a telephone interview today
5. No phone calls today from the client

The whole thing has been highly amusing.

[Sockpuppet]

Yep. Run away.

[Badger]

Normal to have these in a contract?? Sounds permie to me.