Finding an Engineering Contract
This is always the challenge of course – and there are two main routes.
1) Networking. Personal contacts will be a vital tool here! Many contractors tend to try this option first and it basically involves getting in touch with anyone and everyone that you’ve worked with in the past and letting them know that you’re looking for contract work.
Start handing out those business cards and make sure that your name is always in the frame when a client is looking for someone with your skills and experience. Even if the people you know are not the actual clients, your past colleagues will be happy to recommend you if they become aware of a position which will suit you – assuming of course that it’s not ideal for them as well!
2) Through a recruitment consultancy. If this is not something you’re familiar with then ask other engineering contractors as they will be able to make recommendations based on their own experience. Looking at recruitment job boards such as Technojobs or Civil Engineering Jobs and the job sections of relevant publications will help as well.
Once you have chosen a potential agency, send in your CV and explain why you’re looking to start contracting and also why you’d like to work with them. It’s also useful to say right from the start which areas you’d be happy to work in, and whether in the UK or abroad, and also when you’re available to start work.
It probably makes sense to give them an idea of your expected salary as well, so you don’t waste time talking to people about roles which turn out to not generate the income you require. You might also want to give them a call every now and again, just to keep your name front-of-mind.
For further advice on how to create the perfect CV and how to give the best interview visit our Contractor Careers Centre
If you are still unsure about whether to become an engineering contractor then the following pages will provide you with some more detailed information on the options available and how to start up
Why Become an Engineering Contractor
Becoming an Engineering Contractor?
Getting Paid - The Options
Working as an Engineering Contractor through your own Limited Company
If you have any questions about contracting or would like any further advice please either contact our New Client Services helpdesk on 0500 152 500 or e-mail michelle.turbutt@sjdaccountancy.com.
SJD Accountancy
SJD Accountancy are the UK's largest specialist provider of fixed fee, limited company accountancy services to contractors; we've been acting for contractors across the UK since 1992 and have more than 10,000 clients.
We are the only National specialist firm of accountants with offices in all major UK cities so you’ll never be far from your accountant. SJD also have more qualified staff than any other firm in our market with qualifications from the following major tax and accountancy bodies - ATII, ATT, ACCA, CA, ACA, FCCA, ACMA. You’ll also be pleased to know that we are one of the lowest priced as well.
Free face-to-face meetings. This is another unique service, only SJD offers free face to face meetings - tax is complicated and sometimes only a meeting will do.
Unlimited access to your own dedicated accountant. No call centres, no outsourcing, no automated call handling. Simply telephone, e-mail or meet your own dedicated accountant face to face.
Money backed service guarantee. All your telephone calls and e-mails will be answered the same day or we will refund your monthly fee's.
Outstanding reputation. We have won more awards for customer service and accountancy excellence than any other firm in our market.
All inclusive low cost monthly package which includes completion of accounts, payroll bureau, dividends and corporation tax computations, personal taxation, free bookkeeping software, unlimited access to your accountant and all company returns. All this for a fixed monthly fee of £95 plus VAT, which is one of the lowest prices in the market.
Appoint SJD Accountancy and never worry about your tax or accountancy affairs again!
You may also find the following pages, guides and case studies useful:
Take home pay calculator - How much could you be taking home
Contractor FAQ - All your frequently asked questions and their answers
First time Contracting or Freelancing? - A summary of the alternatives along with pros and cons
Step-by-step Guide to Contracting - Download a FREE copy of our guide
Limited or Umbrella? Can't decide? - We help you decide which is best for you
Take home pay case studies - Examples of contractors using limited and umbrella companies
Expenses Guide - Know exactly what you can claim
Umbrella company guide - Everything you ever wanted to know about umbrella company services
IR35 Guide - A great plain English guide to IR35
