The unspoken vibes and messages we receive from the older generations, and even the spoken ones, may be contributing to this desire. This is why government jobs continue to draw people in droves. Once obtained, a government job is usually guaranteed to last a lifetime. The salary may not permit a lavish life, but at least it provides security.

Lower on security but higher on money comes a job with a private employer, the larger usually considered to be the better, perhaps again for security reasons. Larger employers are likely to have defined processes, reducing the possibility of whim-based decision-making, including sacking. A private job provides the opportunity to earn a lot more, but comes with a risk of being terminated at any time.

In a young nation, struggling to find its feet, this thinking was understandable.

Perhaps expectedly, signs of change are now visible. Increasing economic prospects have made it possible for young workers to look beyond security in their work. Youngsters are learning to identify what their interests are and choose a career accordingly, rather than choosing one for the security it provides. The startup ecosystem is buzzing. The gig economy has thousands of people signing up for outcome-based work almost every other day.

It is no surprise that in a nation known for its strength in software and technology, the role of an IT contractor has come to establish itself as a key position in the scheme of things of most large organizations. It provides skills and knowledge and manpower to them when they need it, without the responsibility of long-term engagement. This trend is supported and driven by renowned providers of staffing solutions such as Ushankk.

But, what about the IT contractors themselves? How does it help them?

They are having a ball.

Firstly, instead of being button-holed into doing what, in normal employed life, their employer would be asking them to do, they will be working on technologies that they have interest in.

How is that?

Because that is what they have stated on their profile as their area of interest. Besides, when an offer comes along that does not fit the bill, they can say no. Manpower consulting companies like Ushankk that they sign up with are conscious of their preferences and try to match their skills and preferences with assignments.

By focusing on their area of interest they will not only do work that is of better quality and earn accolades and stars, they will also enhance their skills in that area through repeated assignments.

There is more. They will be able to build a network of like-minded people and support each other in the quest. Remember, a rising tide lifts all boats.

Better remuneration is often the result as they enhance their skills and competence. If the area is one where the skills are less easily available, even more so.

When they move from one role to another, the transition can be quick, unlike in employment, which usually takes a long time for evaluation and consummation and eventual joining. Thus, they will be able to do more.

There are many other advantages of a contractual role such as opportunities for multi and upskilling. Check out our post on the role of an IT consultant to know more about the benefits.

What does it eventually lead to?

Faster growth. Isn’t that what we all want?

Who exactly is an IT consultant?

An IT consultant is an expert in Information Technology (IT), or, to be more specific, in one or more of the many skills that constitute the IT domain, and provides on-demand skills to people who need them, usually businesses. In essence, the IT consultant operates like a business entity, and enters into specific contracts, usually for a specific assignment and for a specific period of time, with other businesses. IT consultants are also known as IT contractors.

It should work for you if:

• You would like to be your own boss, choosing your work carefully and rejecting what you don’t have interest in
• You have interest in pursuing interests and passions that are currently non-remunerative and need to generate income to support yourself
• You are recognized as an expert in a specific IT-related field or skill that is both in demand and with a limited supply of talent
• You make the effort to keep yourself updated on your chosen field of expertise and work
• You have the discipline, belief and motivation to actively engage in meaningful work without constant supervision
• You have a reasonable cushion to fall back on during tough times as there is no guarantee of continuing work
• You are not dependent on benefits of a job such as retiral contributions and paid leave
• You can handle a little bit contracting and negotiation related work as it may be needed at the start of every new assignment may

What are some of the benefits that IT consultants could look forward to?

• Personal growth through a wide variety of projects with multiple organizations. Remember, you are no longer limited to one company and the type of work it chooses to give you. You can choose your work.
• Remuneration can be attractive, particularly if you are a practitioner of a rare skill that happens to be in demand.
• Growth in functional expertise as you get to experience a variety of situations and a variety of requirements.

Does it work for clients?

An arrangement only works if there is something in it for both sides. Clients today are increasingly looking for IT staff augmentation arrangements through which they engage more IT contractors instead of increasing their headcount. They have flexibility and get the services of a partner who adds to their capacity and skills, while giving them the freedom of not having to worry about finding work once the current assignment ends. With the presence of an IT staff augmentation partner such as Ushankk, they also don’t have to worry about the administrative requirements that have to be complied with.

It looks like a win-win arrangement for a client as well as an IT consultant.