Confusion Reigns Supreme

[auriol]

Well...the last couple of weeks have been an insane blur of general confusion.

I'm going to cut-tag what could be a long and complex post, but if you have 10 minutes, I would appreciate your input.

Comments

Charging with a Straight Face

[darzil]

You've got to learn to keep that straight face. I know it isn't easy, I'm rubbish at it. (it's one of the reasons I'm very glad I negotiated my current contract at the other end of the phone and via an agent)

Just like the world of Dilbert, Companies will consider advice better the more expensive it is. Sure, feel free to offer a cheap service to good causes, but make sure you aren't competing on price with other consultants, it isn't a good way to sell.

Also bear in mind that often consulting, whilst expensive, is often via companies when most of the money doesn't get to the consultant. A lot goes to agents and the government. No idea what I'm charged at, but the rates on the 5 year old contract my customer has with theirs is £1000-£2500 a day. I don't see nearly that much!

Re: Charging with a Straight Face

[auriol]

I'm kind of starting to realise how it works the more I do my research.

I guess I still have a lot of research to do.

How's things with you?

Re: Charging with a Straight Face

[darzil]

Things are ok with me. The well paid 3 month contract is now just into it's 5th year. Doing the occasional bit of sound work for some of Kathryn's bands. Playing Lord of the Rings online a lot, and maintaining a fairly popular resource online for it. Generally enjoying life, though not rich enough to retire yet! ;)

Re: Charging with a Straight Face

[auriol]

Sounds pretty good.

I've just had an interview-shaped spanner thrown into the contracting works.

I'm not sure what to do, but I think I'll go to the inteview. Then, I'll either be able to knock it back because I'm not keen on it, or else not get it and happily continue down the chosen path, rather than wndering what it might have been like.

I think the best plan is to call them in the morning and see what the score is.

[darzil]

Always worth keeping options open. You never know which are going to turn out good.

There are no certainties any more. Time was a permanent job was a job for life and contracting was short term. Now everything is potentially short term. Just got to get used to change, and take things as they come.

[auriol]

Change I can cope with, making decisions I'm pants at!

I guess you live and learn!