Everyone likes the security of steady employment. Contract work is typically project-based and shorter-term and for some, this can cause stress and anxiety. After all, who wants to job hunt every three months? If you are a developer, architect, or analyst, you probably know exactly what we are talking about. That’s why we want to share with you how you can turn a short-term contract into long-term employment and build up your client base.
Make Connections
Obviously, the first step in creating a long-standing relationship, and hopefully long-term employment is to make a connection. You can apply for jobs on employment boards, through LinkedIn, or through a recruiter. If you use a recruiter, make sure you go through one who specializes in what you do. They can better help you make the connections you need and can also guide you during negotiations.
You need to get your foot in the door with good companies. So, don’t worry about taking on a 3 to 12-month project. Those short-term projects allow you to vet the business and see if you like working with them. Even if you don’t wish to continue the relationship, you can still build out your portfolio and resume.
Deliver More than Promised
Your foot is in the door, and now it’s time to show them how lucky they are to have you. The best advice we can give is to “give more than expected before it’s required.” That’s right. You need to give the job 110%. Don’t fall into the mindset of “it’s just temporary.”
Adobe, Salesforce, Sitecore, etc. are major investments for those companies. They will likely need experts who can fix “issues” or make modifications for decades to come. You want to be their go-to expert. If you want long-term employment, you need to keep an eye on the end game.
Consider whether further training or certification might benefit you or them. Talk with the project manager and see if they can use you on other areas, or if they have plans for Phase 2 or Phase 3 of their current project in the future. Make it clear that you are available.
Follow-Up
As stressful as you find applying and interviewing, it can only compare with the stress a hiring manager feels trying to find the right person for a position.
If they know of someone who has the skills and is readily available, there is no doubt that they will contact them first.
That’s why you need to follow up with both the project manager and Human Resources on a regular basis (not every day). When you complete a job, let them know that you will touch base in a few months just to make sure they don’t need additional work… and make sure you do!
If you are working with a recruiter, let them know the companies you wish to continue working with. Ask them to follow-up with their contacts at the company.
How Can TechBridge Help You?
If you are a web developer, architect, or marketer who specializes in Adobe, Salesforce, Sitecore, or Magento, it only makes sense to work with someone who can connect you with the right people. Our goal is to bridge the gap between business and employee, matching qualified workers with the companies who need them. If you have any further questions or you’re ready to start the recruiting process, contact us today.
