How To Succeed and Grow in Contract Jobs?

This post was originally posted on Planner Bee.

Contract jobs are no longer just a temporary solution for those between full-time roles. In today’s post-pandemic world, they’ve become more common in the job market. Once viewed with scepticism, contract work is now recognised as a practical and strategic career option. For many professionals, these roles offer flexibility, exposure to different industries, and the opportunity to build in-demand skills.

Before looking at how to maximise contract jobs, it’s important to understand both their benefits and challenges. This balanced perspective will help you make an informed decision.

Pros of contract jobs

1. Flexibility: These roles often come with shorter commitments, giving you the chance to explore different industries or roles without being tied down. For instance, someone interested in technology might take on a six-month data analysis contract to see if the field suits them.
2. Acquire new skills: Contract jobs often provide hands-on experience with niche skills that can boost your CV. Whether it’s learning a new software or managing a complex project, the learning curve can be challenging but rewarding.
3. Networking opportunities: Contract roles give you the chance to meet a wide range of professionals and potential employers. The connections you make can lead to future opportunities.
4. Higher salaries: Additionally, some contract roles offer competitive pay. Companies often increase compensation to make up for the lack of benefits. For instance, project-based roles in sectors like finance or healthcare may offer higher hourly rates than permanent positions.

Cons of contract jobs

1. Job insecurity: Contract jobs come with their own set of challenges. Job security is a major concern, as contracts may not always be renewed. This can lead to periods of unemployment, so careful financial planning is necessary.
2. Limited welfare: Many contract roles don’t offer perks like health insurance, CPF contributions, or paid leave, which are typically available in permanent jobs.
3. Bleak career progression: Without a permanent position, it might be harder to move up the corporate ladder or access internal promotions and development programmes.
4. Financial irregularity: Finally, income instability can make financial planning tricky. The irregular cash flow that comes with contract work underscores the importance of budgeting and having an emergency fund.

Understanding both the advantages and challenges of contract jobs will help you make informed decisions and be better prepared.

Read more: What You Need To Know Before Starting a Freelance Career

How to leverage your contract job for success

If you’re considering taking a contract job or already have one, here are some ways to make the experience valuable and part of your career growth.

1. Align contract jobs with long-term goals

A key strategy to make the most of a contract role is by aligning it with your long-term career aspirations. Before accepting any position, ask yourself:

• What skills do I want to develop?
• Does this role fit into my overall career plan?
• Will this job lead to future opportunities?

For example, if you’re aiming for a career in digital marketing, a contract role where you manage campaigns or analyse data could be a valuable addition to enhance your CV.

You can also make use of government programmes like SkillsFuture, which provides subsidies for training courses that align with your career path.

Contract jobs are also a great way to test if a certain industry or role suits your interests and strengths.

Read more: How To Use Your SkillsFuture Credits To Upskill

2. Negotiate and manage expectations

One common challenge with contract work is ensuring fair compensation and clear expectations. Before signing any contract, research market rates for your role to make sure you’re being paid fairly. If benefits like CPF contributions or medical coverage aren’t offered, you might want to negotiate higher take-home pay as a substitute.

Read more: Working Adults: 6 Effective Ways to Negotiate Your Salary

It’s also important to clarify the deliverables and job responsibilities upfront. Clear terms will help avoid misunderstandings and prevent issues later on.

In Singapore, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) offers guidelines for contract workers, including rights around pay, working hours, and termination. Familiarising yourself with these regulations can help you protect your interests.

3. Build a strong professional network

Contract jobs can significantly expand your professional network, especially if you take a proactive approach. Be approachable and engaged with colleagues and clients, and show enthusiasm in your interactions. To make a positive impression, take initiative and be reliable, such as stepping beyond your job scope to offer help when needed.

You can also use LinkedIn to connect with people you meet, ensuring you stay in touch. Keep your profile updated with your achievements and engage with posts from others to maintain an active online presence.

Read more: How To Create the Perfect LinkedIn Profile

Networking doesn’t have to be limited to the workplace. Platforms like Meetup host events where you can meet industry peers and potential employers.

4. Upskill and leverage experiences

Contract jobs offer opportunities to develop new skills and gain valuable experience. For instance, you could volunteer for tasks outside your core responsibilities to learn on the job. Online platforms like Coursera or government-supported programmes like SkillsFuture can also complement your work experience.

Document your achievements and compile them into a professional portfolio to showcase your capabilities. For instance, if you work in marketing, keep a record of the campaigns you’ve worked on, along with measurable outcomes such as increased engagement or sales growth.

5. Turn contract roles into permanent opportunities

Contract jobs can sometimes lead to permanent positions if approached strategically. To increase your chances, focus on exceeding expectations by consistently delivering high-quality work.

Make your interest known by informing your manager that you would be open to a permanent role if one becomes available.

It’s also important to build strong relationships with your team and supervisors. Strong connections can make a difference when opportunities arise.

6. Maintain a positive mindset

Lastly, maintaining the right mindset when faced with the challenges of contract work can make a significant difference:

• Focus on growth: Treat each role as a step towards your long-term goals.
• Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
• Find a support network: Connect with other contract workers through forums, coworking spaces, or meetups for shared experiences and advice.

Remember, every role—no matter how temporary—adds value to your career. With a positive outlook, you can turn any contract job into a rewarding experience.

Conclusion

Contract jobs are more than just short-term positions; they offer chances to learn, grow, and build your professional reputation. By approaching each role with purpose and a proactive mindset, you can make contract jobs a valuable part of your career journey.