Dear Matt: I'm a freelance consultant who has worked as an independent contractor and in short-term temporary roles for a number of years. My top client recently offered me a full-time job. What should I consider before accepting or declining?
Matt says: This decision is a difficult one. With the job offer there could be a couple things going on, says Marlene Phipps, President of Celarity (celarity.com), a Twin Cities-based staffing firm that hires contract/temporary employees in the marketing, digital and creative industries. The company you contract with may actually be looking to save money by hiring you full-time. If you bill more than 40 hours per week they could offer you a salary role regardless if you work 40, 50 or 60 hours per week. The hope is they just really like you and think you would be a great asset to the company.
Reasons you should decline, says Phipps:
• Flexible lifestyle. You work with a variety of clients and can work on your own schedule.
• You have established other clients you'd like to keep a relationship with and working full-time may prevent that.
• You typically make more money per hour as a contractor because you are responsible for your own taxes and benefits.
• Short-term contracts suit you better.
• Undesirable commute.