Over the years I have had qualified accountants at different levels telling me they have always been curious about, for example, financial services, public sector or technology but they don’t have that background and they don’t know if their application will be considered or if they will enjoy it. Even moving from a large corporate to a dynamic high growth environment can be daunting with too many “what if’s”..

If you are going to be available, then a contract poses little risk as it is a finite timeline that both parties have committed to so there is an easy “get out” after say 6 months if you do not enjoy it. But for the company, it’s a working interview and many companies extend the contractor or make them permanent. For the contractor, it is a “try before you buy” experience and easy to explain away at future interviews if it the role doesn’t hold longevity for you (but you may have still learnt a lot over the duration).

The interesting observation that I have made over the years is that it’s the leadership, culture and values which make or break an assignment and you wouldn’t really know this until you get in the door. A business may have the best brand and product but if there is a “blame” culture, who would want to stay there? At the same time some organisations may have a frustratingly slow speed of making decisions but if they look after their people, then that may be completely tolerable!

Many organisations hire their permanent people by looking at who is working with them on an FTC/temporary/interim basis first, still running an external process, but if you have impressed them during your short tenure then you are placing yourself in pole position for the role.

Contracts can vary with the commitment they require. If you are going through a period of handover and training then you should honour the duration of the contract. This is also the case if you are working on a business critical project where you must build strong relationships internally. Sometimes there is a bit of flexibility if it’s a more straightforward role and your dream job presents itself. However the rule of thumb is to see it through to completion.