With the contracting sector continuing to grow, it seems that the self-employment route has never been as popular as it is today.
It’s easy to see why this is the case when you consider the numerous benefits that come with this way of working.
For example, as a contractor you can expect to:
- Have a much better work / life balance than other workers
- Experience greater freedom and flexibility compared to your permanent counterparts – this means working when you want, being able to choose where you work and taking holiday days as little or as often as you wish (although, just remember that you won’t get paid for this time off!)
- Be able to charge a daily or hourly rate much higher than a permanent employee in the same role. It’s also worth pointing out that your individual skills and experience could result in your rates being even higher.
- Claim back expenses that are made for the running of your business, which can then reduce your tax bill at the end of the tax year.
- Gain so much in terms of skills and experience by working with a number of clients in various environments.
How can I become a programme director?
Transitioning to a management position such as this can be challenge, simply because it is such a big change from working in a developer role. If you are looking for a web developer position, we recommend you visit https://www.webdeveloperjobs.co.uk.
Although the definition of a programme director generally differs from role-to-role, you can usually expect to oversee the co-ordination and administration of all aspects of an ongoing programme – planning, organising, staffing and leading will be the skills needed in order to achieve such a role.
If this is your dream job, then here are a few tips on how to become a successful programme director:
- Work as a team leader first
As mentioned, going to a programme director role can be quite daunting because it can be such a change from your previous experiences. This is where it can be really useful to try and work as a team leader first, that way you can start on the ladder leading you gradually to your dream job role.
Volunteering yourself in managing projects will only help to increase your experience and develop those all-important skills that you will need for the future.
- Practice your people management skills
A programme director will work with such a variety of people with diverse backgrounds and personalities. You need to ensure that you can connect with a wide range of people in order to communicate what you want and need from each individual you work with.
You will be expected to liaise with and persuade stakeholders, as well as lead and manage people so it is definitely worth getting started on those people management skills as soon as possible.
