Contract vs permanent work

Contracting is popular among professionals heading to the UK.  In fact, around 86% of our candidates take on contract work for their first role in the UK.  While some will eventually choose a permanent role, many others choose to remain contracting throughout their time in the UK.

Contracting is popular for the following reasons:

  • You can get work quickly
  • You have flexibility to travel for longer periods
  • Changing contracts enables a variety of work experience
  • You can ‘try out’ a job or employer before deciding whether to pursue more permanent work
  • You can earn more money and utilise some tax advantages

Our Guide to Contracting in the UK provides further background on the ins and outs of contracting and what you should expect.

Permanent employment while less popular, offers the following advantages:

  • An opportunity to extend your skills and experience
  • Career development and funded training
  • Bonuses that are often over 20%
  • Other paid benefits including pensions, car allowances and medical insurance
  • A minimum of 20 days of annual leave, plus 8 statutory holidays and paid sick leave

Have you decided to go contracting?

Check out our 'contractor and payroll solutuion page' to find out how to get more pounds in your pocket.


"The day before I left NZ Global came to the rescue and arranged five interviews for the day after my arrival!"

TD, Confirmed a job in London within a week


Tips

  • Get declared a ‘Non Tax Resident’ before you head to the UK
  • Dress for success – particularly in the UK where image is everything
  • Research possible companies to work for before arriving
  • Know what you want when you talk to recruitment agencies (companies you're interested in, exact roles, pay, location etc)
  • Always allow an extra 20 minutes for getting to your interview - transport happens