Bright Purple are experts in IT Contract Recruitment
We have worked with thousands of contractors across the globe, placing IT and technology professionals into a number of long and short-term contract roles on behalf of clients. There are many advantages to those who operate as a contractor, but also some challenges and legalities to adhere to.
With changes to IR35 (off-payroll working rules), it’s important that contractors keep up to date with the latest guidelines and market information.
Whether you are an experienced contractor looking for a new opportunity, or are considering contracting for the first time, Contact Us today to discuss how Bright Purple can help you, or Download our Contractor Guide for more information around contracting.
Do you require an umbrella company?
Bright Purple use APSCo and FSCA accredited umbrella's and have created a PSL which you can access here.
Contract vs Permanent Employment: Which is best?
There are many factors to weigh up when deciding whether contract or permanent work is best for you: the decision will depend on your priorities – what factors are most important to you when looking for work?
Here are some benefits and disadvantages of both to help you decide.
Benefits of Contracting:
- Flexibility: By contracting you will have more freedom to work on different projects and tech stacks
- Income: Hourly rates for contract jobs are usually higher than permanent roles
- Control: Depending on your IR35 status, you may have a lot more control over how and when you work
Disadvantages of Contracting:
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Competitive: Contract roles can be very competitive; you may pitch for many contract roles before securing one
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Less security: You will have no employment rights, no benefits such as pension top-ups or sick pay, and shorter notice periods
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Uncertainty of income: Although contract roles usually pay higher, you need to secure a steady stream of contract jobs to maintain this. If you were unable to secure a role for several months you may find yourself in a difficult position
Benefits of Permanent Employment:
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Career Progression: More chance to move up the ladder and progress to a more senior position
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Job security: More employment rights mean more job security
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Company benefits: Pension schemes, life insurance, any benefits that your employer might have that you would miss out on as a contractor
Disadvantages of Permanent Employment:
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Less opportunity to work on other projects: If you ever wanted to dip your toes into another project or tech stack, you will likely have less flexibility to do this in permanent employment
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Less lucrative: As mentioned, contract roles tend to pay more than permanent employment
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Fixed holidays/less flexible: You will likely have fairly fixed hours and will be assigned a certain number of days holiday a year
If you have further queries on how contracting works (either as a candidate or an employer!), or want to enquire about one of our live Contractor Vacancies, please Contact Us.