Finding work as a 'part timer'

[supermatchgame]

I currently work in software development in local government in the UK. I probably wouldn't get a programming job at Microsoft but I do know my stuff - .NET, Biztalk, SQL, web development and I'm doing a lot at the moment on systems integration and data matching - API's, process mapping etc.

I like the security of my full time job but I would like to try and earn more by working in evenings and at weekends. My question is: how can I find contract work that I can do outside my main job and still keep the customer happy?

I did try doing something with small businesses a few years ago but they're high maintenance and really bad at paying on time or even at all. The contractor who works with me has relationships with other organisations and gets regular work; does anyone have any tips about how I could go about doing something similar, bearing in mind that I could never fulfill a 'bum on seat' position?

 

[LNBruno]

Well, I haven't had a ton of success, but there are a lot of developer-for-hire sites you could check into.

Google "freelance software development" and you'll get a bazillion hits...just be careful who you pick.

< M!ke >

 

[Cstorms]

I know my company hires from those coder for hire sites periodically, it seems like a good place to pick up jobs that you would be familiar with.

 

[supermatchgame]

Found a website today -

http://www.guru.com

- which works really well, and is really clear about how to get paid and setting up escrow agreements and stuff like that.

Has anyone has any experience of using something like this? Also, most of the jobs posted are US - based; would the fact that I live in the UK be a problem?

 

[GUJUm0deL]

supermatchgame, i'm a member ar

http://www.guru.com

and it is great, you get tons and tons of posts about tasks as freelancers. But it can get a bit discouraging. You have to remember that there are hundreds of "developers" that are vying for the same job. It can take sometimes over 50 applies before someone hires you.

Another site which is good is

http://geo.craigslist.org/iso/gb

(this is there UK portal)



____________________________________
Just Imagine.

http://www.imajinarts.com

 

[supermatchgame]

Have you ever had problems getting money out of people? Do you find that the effort you put in getting contracts reduces your hourly rate significantly - i.e. you spend so much time agreeing specifications etc. that you end up on minimum wage?

 

[GUJUm0deL]

supermatchgame, that's why you spell out the terms of the deal/project scope before you begin work.

I find that the first impression your client has of you makes it easier to close the deal. If you go in knowing a bit about your potential client's business, offer advice and give feedback on what they want (and how you can improve on that), the client is more willing to sign you on.


____________________________________
Just Imagine.

http://www.imajinarts.com