Hello fellow forum members,
I just thought I'd say hello. I've been lurking around here for some weeks, but finally the time has come to take the plunge into the world of IT contracting.
1) I have a 3 month notice period with my permanent role, or rather did have as knowing no-one is going to touch me with that sort of availability. Therefore last Monday I took a leap into the abyss and handed in my notice with nothing to go to. I have to say that was probably the hardest decision I've had to make in my life.
2) I have 6 months worth of expenses in the bank and by the time my 3 months is up, that will be more. Hopefully that will be enough.
3) I'm spending this week setting up an limited company and sorting out an accountant. I want to study the ins and outs of IR35 to avoid being stung.
4) My availability is nationwide, although I'd prefer an initial gig in the Midlands. My other half and I have decided that whilst we don't currently have kids, if I need to stay away or commute some distance then so be it.
So, I have two questions for you all really. Firstly, the day I handed my notice in, I spoke to an agent. He was trying to secure me a permanent position. I told him what I'd done and he was distinctly non-plussed. Words to the effect of "Well that's not a very good idea, coming out of the back of a recession". Was he right? I'm thinking to be honest, he was just miffed that he wouldn't get any commission out of me.
The second question is more open. If you seasoned contractors could do one thing differently when you entered the market, what would it be?
I just thought I'd say hello. I've been lurking around here for some weeks, but finally the time has come to take the plunge into the world of IT contracting.
1) I have a 3 month notice period with my permanent role, or rather did have as knowing no-one is going to touch me with that sort of availability. Therefore last Monday I took a leap into the abyss and handed in my notice with nothing to go to. I have to say that was probably the hardest decision I've had to make in my life.
2) I have 6 months worth of expenses in the bank and by the time my 3 months is up, that will be more. Hopefully that will be enough.
3) I'm spending this week setting up an limited company and sorting out an accountant. I want to study the ins and outs of IR35 to avoid being stung.
4) My availability is nationwide, although I'd prefer an initial gig in the Midlands. My other half and I have decided that whilst we don't currently have kids, if I need to stay away or commute some distance then so be it.
So, I have two questions for you all really. Firstly, the day I handed my notice in, I spoke to an agent. He was trying to secure me a permanent position. I told him what I'd done and he was distinctly non-plussed. Words to the effect of "Well that's not a very good idea, coming out of the back of a recession". Was he right? I'm thinking to be honest, he was just miffed that he wouldn't get any commission out of me.
The second question is more open. If you seasoned contractors could do one thing differently when you entered the market, what would it be?
Comment