Hello Australia! Are you thinking of taking the leap and becoming an independent contractor? Congratulations on considering this exciting and challenging career move! Being a contractor can be a fulfilling and lucrative way to work, but it’s not for everyone. In this article, I’ll share some tips for how to become a contractor, as well as the top qualities that employers look for in independent contractors.
First things first: becoming a contractor.
Before you start marketing yourself as a contractor, there are a few things you’ll need to do first. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get started:
- Define your niche: What specific skills or services do you offer that you can market as a contractor?
- Set your rate: How much do you want to charge per hour or project?
- Create a professional image: Develop a professional profile on a platform like Client Contract Connect, or develop a website and business cards, and consider getting a business phone number.
- Register your business: Register as a sole trader or company with the Australian government.
- Establish a client base: Start networking with people in your industry and promoting your services through platforms, social media, and word of mouth.
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about the top qualities that employers look for in independent contractors:
- Reliability: As a contractor, you are responsible for meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality work. Employers want to know that they can count on you to get the job done on time and to their satisfaction.
- Skills: Employers want contractors who have deep knowledge and skills in their field. Make sure you’re up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in your industry, and consider getting additional certifications or training to enhance your skills.
- Communication skills: Good communication is key to any successful project, and it’s especially important for contractors. You need to be able to clearly and concisely communicate your ideas and progress to your clients, as well as ask for feedback and clarification when needed.
Now that you know what employers are looking for, how can you make sure you’re successful as an independent contractor?
- Set clear expectations: When starting a project, be sure to establish clear expectations with your client. What are their goals for the project? What specific tasks are you responsible for? What is the timeline for completion? Clear communication at the outset will help prevent misunderstandings and ensure everyone is on the same page.
- Keep detailed records: As a contractor, you are responsible for tracking your own time and expenses. Keep detailed records of your hours worked, expenses incurred, and any other relevant information. This will help you accurately invoice your client and ensure you get paid for all your hard work.
- Be proactive: Don’t wait for your client to tell you what to do next. Take the initiative to identify areas where you can add value and suggest new ideas to help move the project forward.
- Maintain professionalism: Even though you’re working independently, it’s important to maintain a professional demeanor at all times. This means dressing appropriately for meetings, responding promptly to emails and phone calls, and always delivering your work to the highest standard.
In conclusion, becoming an independent contractor can be a great way to take control of your career and work on projects that excite you. By focusing on the top qualities that employers look for in contractors and following the tips outlined in this article, you can set yourself up for success as an independent contractor. Good luck!