What should I consider before taking a contract role?

[Anonymous]

My organization is on the verge of some big changes (not necessarily good ones), and I need to get out sooner than later. Thinking about taking a contract role (possible contract-to-hire) so I can make an immediate jump, but wondering what considerations I need to account for? How is contract work different than if I were a regular employee (besides benefits)?

FWIW the employer requires the contractor to be on site.

[Anonymous]

First benefits are huge, and while companies vary, here is my experience:

When the company closes for minor holidays or weather, you simply do not get paid. As a temp contractor, holidays were only the six major ones, and no vacation or sick days until I had worked X number of hours. Then they'd pay me for five days-- outright. So my paycheck was aways smaller if I took a day off. Luckily I use my husbands benefits. If you are an employee of the contractor, you receive a much better deal.

I worked at the client site, and the client let everyone know you were a contractor. They would have company parties, lunches and get togethers in the common area, but no contractors were invited. My supervisor would sneak me a plate of food. It was silly. Basically the contractors did the majority of the work, for little recognition or pay.

Still if you need a paycheck, take it. If you don't see them moving you to a permanent employee, keep looking as soon as possible.

[Anonymous]

Agree with PP, contractors do not get paid for holidays, early closures, snow days or accrue vacation or sick time. They are often excluded from company events, holiday parties and even compamy-wide staff meetings . However, in my experience, there was more flexibility as you set your own hours in the sense that you aren't getting paid if you don't work.

[Anonymous]

Im a contractor and get paid for holidays plus 3 weeks of leave. However, Im salaried at 40 hrs a week. I do get excluded from trainings and events at the agency where I am (on site). But that is because my time can only be spent on my project.