Contracting can be a good and lucrative way of building experience, but most lawyers still wouldn’t consider contracting as a long-term career option.
“Contracting is a good option if you already have expertise in a particular area and are looking to build new contacts in that sector,” said associate, Bianca Tang. “But such roles provide limited opportunities for career progression or chances of permanent employment with that firm or company after the contract period,” she said.
Findings of a recent Employee Insight Survey (EIS) revealed that the majority of employees (58%) would consider contract roles only in situations where they were unable to secure a permanent role. 22% said they would take on a contracting role to gain more flexible working arrangements while 15% said yes to contract work because it pays well. Overall, 40% of the respondents said they would consider contract roles as a short-term employment solution but only 7% would consider it as a long-term career.
While pay rates for contractors can surpass US$500 a day, lawyers should be aware of the pros and cons of such a role. “Contract lawyers may earn higher remuneration and have more flexibility in terms of their work arrangements, but the nature of contracting is that it is on a short-term basis with little prospect of them securing permanent employment at the conclusion of the contract,” Tang said.
Lawyers looking for contract work should target firms/companies who do work or advise in their area of expertise to increase their chances of success. “Contracting roles provide excellent short-term opportunities to improve existing skills as well as develop new legal skills and knowledge,” said Tang. “To maximise those oportunities, lawyers should assess what sort of projects they want to work on and how their skills and experience complement the role before they start applying for roles or approaching potential firms or companies.”
To view contract and permanent roles listed on legaljobscentre, click here.
Related stories: