TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Subject:Re: Contract vs Permanent From:Tothscribe -at- aol -dot- com To:jktan -at- ctlsg -dot- creaf -dot- com Date:Fri, 19 Nov 1999 10:00:28 EST
>What kind of job do you prefer - contract or permanent? And why?
I've done a lot of contract work because it allows me to learn about a wide variety of subjects without having to make a long commitment to work I may discover I don't like. (pro) This diversifies my portfolio and makes me more hire-able. (pro)
But I don't like having to worry about lining up the next job, nor do I like the inconsistent income of contracting for a living. This con outweighs the pros of contracting for me -- which is a long-winded way of saying I prefer permanent employment. Preferably with employers who don't mind me freelancing with non-competitors on the side.
Which leads me to tack on a rider question -- if you are an employer, would you be prejudiced against hiring someone whom you suspected of freelancing on the side?
