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0 pointsskore11y ago0 comments

> the best interview process is hiring someone as a consultant, and then converting them after a year or so

Unfortunately, this is also a "great" way to keep temp employees in constant limbo with the perm job as the carrot and stick. Usually, the temp job also leaves you with a lot less money (particularly because all the perks - insurance etc. - are reserved for proper employees) and, depending on the company, that's just all too attractive: A temp worker turning in work like a perm worker, always trying to "get there".

0 comments

robmcm11y ago

Ironically it's the opposite in the UK, temp employees in the tech industry typically earn a lot more.

In context to the interview I was talking about the perm rate was half of the contract rates they were paying people on the same team.

hackerboos11y ago

I concur.

As a contractor in the UK, you are likely not paying National Insurance contributions, are able to write off mileage and other expenses, can reduce your tax liability with dividends. Plus you'd still get access to the NHS.

I'm perm at the moment, but if I was a contractor I'd be saving a significant amount of money.

shubb11y ago

The main thing is that if you are earning decent money, you want to be a contractor because it is tax efficient.

collyw11y ago

You ought to be paying National Insurance.

2 more replies

madeofpalk11y ago

In AU, once you factor in tax and benefits, contractors typically earn 50% more than full time employees. For a $100k full time role, the same might go to a contractor for $800+/day ($180k/year).

TickleSteve11y ago

Contracting in the UK typically pays close to double the equivalent permie postion... its much more profitable and there is no way I would go permie again given the choice.

Honestly, quite surprised to hear its the other way around in the states. Here, contractors tend to laugh at the 'perks'... they're pretty much worthless.

gambiting11y ago

In the States, as a contractor you have to pay your own health insurance,which can be ruinous. Large corporation can provide a much better package than what you could afford on your own,because they get discounts. Obviously here in the UK it doesn't matter, because you get NHS coverage either way.

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