Long term contracts a benefit for who?

[Sockpuppet]

I like long term contracts. Allows you to see what the client is thinking.

In my line of work I can see how long something is going to take (as its usually a physical project, not software). So if they're offering 3 months for a project that is at least going to take 12 to complete and 3 just to start then I'm suspicious. If they offer 6 months then less so.

[petergriffin]

Why should I see long term contracts as a plus? Recruitment agents seem to think I should accept a lower rate for a 6 month contract yet their contract clauses often allow for early termination by them but not by me. Last thing I want is a 6 month contract with no get out if it's not working out for me.

This is self-explanatory. You have a choice. If the alternative is the bench, 6 months of money coming into you bank account is a plus.

[Brussels Slumdog]

The Longer the contract the higher the rate should be

Why should I see long term contracts as a plus? Recruitment agents seem to think I should accept a lower rate for a 6 month contract yet their contract clauses often allow for early termination by them but not by me. Last thing I want is a 6 month contract with no get out if it's not working out for me.

Working longer than 183 days or 6 months can make you a tax resident in most counties
Over 2 years means you can't claim expenses.
The longer you work for the same client the more valuable you become.
Short term contracts mean you can negotiate better terms for renewals

[jmo21]

In a market where there arelots of candidates for fewer jobs, agents think we will be more desperate and accept reduced rates, and think longer roles will be more appealing.

Not much more to it than that.

[russell]

Why should I see long term contracts as a plus? Recruitment agents seem to think I should accept a lower rate for a 6 month contract yet their contract clauses often allow for early termination by them but not by me. Last thing I want is a 6 month contract with no get out if it's not working out for me.

Tell them your rate is xxx, the notice thing is pretty irrelevant they can terminate you contract at anytime, you can also walk at any time. Worst that happens is you or they burn their bridges, but there are plenty of other contractors/clients.

[pmeswani]

Why should I see long term contracts as a plus? Recruitment agents seem to think I should accept a lower rate for a 6 month contract yet their contract clauses often allow for early termination by them but not by me. Last thing I want is a 6 month contract with no get out if it's not working out for me.

They offer it because they know they can get away with it. The moment they don't have the advantage, they would become flexible.

[bikeman]

Why should I see long term contracts as a plus? Recruitment agents seem to think I should accept a lower rate for a 6 month contract yet their contract clauses often allow for early termination by them but not by me. Last thing I want is a 6 month contract with no get out if it's not working out for me.