In the Salesforce ecosystem, we at Computer Futures have seen a high volume of contractors moving into permanent roles, and permanent candidates moving into contract roles – much higher than any other IT market we have experience in!
It seems like there’s no better time to talk about these two types of roles. This article will talk about the differences between them, the pros and cons for each side, and some tips if you are thinking of making the move, one way or another.
Contract vs. Permanent: The Differences
| Contract | Permenant |
|---|---|
| Defined by terms, such as the period of work, (yet often extendable). Paid on a daily rate. | Tends to be for an indefinite period, paid on an annual salary |
| Bought onboard to utilise your expertise in one particular area. | Wider scope of work/responsibilities. |
| Frequently without benefits | Usually with benefits |
| Little room for progression within one client (as you are not really ever onsite long enough). | As a permanent member of staff, your employer will invest in you. There is room for progression to potentially lead a team. |
| Your certifications are almost never paid for by the client (company), as they won’t reap the benefits of this once your contract finishes. | They may invest in you by paying for certifications and by paying for extra training, because they will hope to benefit from this moving forward. |
| You are left to your own devices, not micromanaged. Your success is based on deliverables | Subject to salary reviews, performance reviews and regular SCRUMS/Meetings to review progress on projects. |
Permanent: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stability of work | Limited learning potential |
| Opportunity to lead projects | Static professional opportunities |
| Opportunity for career progression/promotions | Only have a limited number of days off per year |
| Training and development provided by the business | Provided with a limited scope of work |
| Clients may invest in you by paying for your certifications | Might not have the ability to branch out and try different types of work |
| Being part of a team | Less freedom to decide one's own schedule |
| Employee benefits | Less flexibility in your work/life balance |
Contracting: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High day rates | The costs related to setting up your Limited Company |
| You will broaden your experience quicker by working on different projects | The risk of no work after your most recent contract |
| You pick up new skill sets by working on different projects | Clients will not invest in you by paying for certs/training |
| You get the opportunity to work for a variety of clients | You will likely be leading projects |
| Less financial pressures | You work independently not as part of an overall team |
| You have the opportunity to travel not only UK wide, but across the globe | You do not get any employee benefits |
Moving Across – Tips
Below are a few tips/pieces of advice to think about for contractors and permanent candidates when considering making the move.
Contract → Permanent
- Make sure your reasons for moving into a permanent role are clear as hiring managers will see you as a risk.
- Do your calculations on salary and package that you will need to make sure you do not leave yourself out of pocket financially.
- Think about the type of company you will like to work for, and the environment you wish to work in, as this is more important for a permanent role than a contract role.
Permanent → Contract
- Your notice period may mean it takes you longer to find a contract role, as contractors are usually required urgently, so you may want to think about handing your notice in early.
- Ensure you are financially stable prior to moving into contracting, as you may find yourself without work for a period of time, therefore you’ll need some money put away to support you.
- Think about setting up a Limited Company prior to making the move to contracting to save you doing this at a later date.
Summary
It seems like there’s no better time to talk about these two types of roles in the Salesforce Ecosystem, both in plentiful supply! This article has covered the differences between them, pros and cons for each side, and some tips if you are thinking of making the move, one way or another.
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