Make yourself a valued contractor

Companies hire contractors to add value to their organisation, wanting them to apply their skills and experience to a project or other organisational goal. Value means different things to every organisation, so firstly it is important to make sure you fully understand what the organisation wants to achieve in the project or goal they have hired you to be part of.

Understanding what the organisation wants to achieve should start when you first speak to your recruitment consultant who will be able to provide a solid basis for you to continue your understanding in the interview

What are your next steps?

Once you have an understanding of what the organisation wants to achieve you can then decide on the best ways to make yourself an indispensible member of the team. Adding value in an organisation is not only about applying your expertise but also about your productivity and the profit you can make the company. Simply completing the responsibilities listed in your job description will not be enough to make you a valued team member. Below are ways you can add value to the organisation you are contracting for to prove your ROI and increase your chances of getting your contract extended and your rate of pay increased.

• Measurable to the bottom line: ask yourself if there are any ways you can save the company money. Is there something you can do to generate sales? Perhaps there is a process that can be streamlined?
  

• Visibility: Be visible in the organisation. Instead of emailing walk over to your colleague’s desk, volunteer for extra project activities outside your job description, represent your team at meetings or ask to go along so you can be more involved and meet a wider range of teams.
  
  
• Build relationships: It important you get to know your team. You don’t need to become friends or socialise outside of work hours but make an effort to be involved and friendly at work.
  
  
• Enhancing your skills: If there is additional training on offer you should take it. It shows that you are willing to learn and take a keen interest in the project, and it may even provide an opportunity for you to network with other employees.
  
  
• Be proactive: If you’re experiencing a quiet day ask you manager for something to do. Being proactive can go a long way and will also help with your visibility.
  
  
• Professional: Take your job seriously – be punctual, respectful of colleagues and company property, wear appropriate business attire and be diligent in the work you perform. This also means not connecting with social media during work hours.
  
  
• Avoid politics: Try not to get involved in office politics. It can be difficult to do but you will be more highly regarded if you avoid the politics and gossip.
  
  
• Ask for feedback: One of the best ways to learn is by seeking feedback. Asking for feedback will demonstrate you are looking to improve your skills and that you value your supervisor’s experience.
  
  
• Awareness: Make sure your supervisor knows about any improvements you have made but be modest and find a way to do let them know without screaming about how good you are.
  
  
• Take responsibility: It is your responsibility to fill out your timesheets, expense forms and any other paperwork required by the organisation. They are simple but making sure these tasks are done illustrates you are responsible, reliable and organised.
  
  

Finally, deliver what you promise on your CV and in the interview. If you fail on this and don’t apply your skills and experience to the best of your ability then the additional value add you perform will be of little consequence to whether or not your contract gets extended.  By performing to the best of your ability, doing what you set out do and going above and beyond your job description you will be able to prove your ROI and be in a strong position to have your contract extended or at the very least come highly recommended for future contracts.