A recent industry report from respected organisations within the UK suggests now is the right time to be an umbrella contractor.
This is something that many of us have known for years of course, especially when you consider there is no better feeling than getting rid of your boss and setting out on your path.
However, according to the industry report, the market conditions for contractors are “perfect” right now, which means if you have been thinking of going out on your own then it really doesn’t get any better than right now.
You might be saying to yourself “I will wait until next year,” but ultimately, next year turns into the year after, and then on and on. The time is right now.
So why is right now the perfect time to get into the contractor lifestyle? One of the main reasons is the lack of talent in many cities around the UK, which has led to many companies bringing in the skills they need from the outside.
For example, things like web design and IT security are really in demand at the moment, so if this your forte then you might want to look at taking the next step in your career.
Another reason is because there is just so many different ways to connect with companies in the UK, and around the world, in order to offer your services. This has gave us a so called “gig economy,” where contractors are using their skills to fill vacancies that fit around their own lifestyle, rather than the other way round.
Ultimately, this has led to more freedom among contractors and freelancers in general, with many people even choosing to live abroad or go travelling while they are still working.
My opinion? I agree completely with the new report, and wouldn’t be surprised if many new people start entering the contracting market to take advantage of the great demand we currently have.
One thing is for sure: the UK economy is really going to benefit from having such a strong foundation of umbrella contractors working away in successful companies up and down the country, and it might just mean that we get through this tough adjustment post Brexit, and go on to become a force to be reckoned with no matter if we are in the European Union or not.
Bottom line…start taking action if you think being a contractor would suit you. Even it means working part time in the evenings and at weekends until you build up a client base. At that point, you are in a great position to quit your job and fully focus on what you really want to do.
