Approximately 1.77 million UK citizens are full-time contractors, and self-employment has substantially increased across the nation. Contracting in 2021 is desired due to the lack of a boss, make-shift hours, and unlimited holidays.
However, this increase in contractors has raised the competitive bar, and therefore, work is harder to find.
Be it construction or other forms of contracting; you will struggle to find work using outdated methods. That's why we recommend finding a consistent workflow through the use of digital platforms.
In this article, we discuss the best ways to find work as a contractor today, and remember to check out our trading building supplies!
Create a Website
The first step for a contractor is to start marketing themselves on a website. A website is a helpful tool to utilise when finding work as a contractor. This displays to clients your skills, previous experiences, and style of work. Showcasing your work will enable easy access for your potential clients and yourself.
A website may be daunting for those who haven't designed one. Fortunately, there are templates available for beginners on WordPress and Wix. With a digital presence public for you to send out and display to clients, you can begin to market yourself.
Market Yourself on Job Boards
Now you've got your website, it's time to market yourself on job boards. Contractors can browse through job postings and have access to the exact requirements and expectations of each posting. This extension allows contractors to not only find work but find the work that best suits their skills.
There are plenty of UK job boards. However, some may not post for contractors frequently. Here is a list of some UK job boards for contractors:
- https://www.careersinconstruction.com/
- https://www.constructionjobboard.co.uk/
- https://www.building4jobs.com/
Build your Contacts
How about getting in touch with local businesses, friends, and old clients to create a contact list of potential work?
Word of mouth is still a powerful tool to use for contractors. Building your list of contacts will enable a consistent workflow and help find other contracts through your book.
Know Your Worth
Knowing your worth is essential when contracting. You must have a decent understanding of setting your prices and ensuring they're consistent and secure.
If a contractor sets his price too high, then a client will look for cheaper work. If they set their prices too low, then you'll appear desperate to your client.
Contractors must research their area for the correct pricing, look at what services they provide and then compare them to industry-standard prices. Additionally, geographical location plays a part in your pricing.
The key lies in understanding the client's requirements and displaying your services.
Work may fluctuate for a contractor, but if you continue to market yourself and retain good relationships with previous clients, you increase your chances of finding a job! For more information and advice for contractors, check out our knowledge hub.
