What do you do if you're searching for temporary and contract programming gigs?

1 Use multiple sources

One of the first steps to finding temporary and contract programming gigs is to use multiple sources to look for opportunities. You can use online platforms that specialize in freelance or contract work, such as Upwork, Fiverr, Toptal, or Freelancer. You can also use general job boards, such as Indeed, Monster, or LinkedIn, and filter your search by keywords like "contract", "temporary", or "remote". Additionally, you can use your personal and professional network, such as former colleagues, friends, mentors, or alumni, and ask for referrals or recommendations. You can also join online communities, such as forums, blogs, podcasts, or social media groups, and participate in discussions, share your expertise, and build relationships with potential clients or partners.

2 Update your resume and portfolio

Another important step to finding temporary and contract programming gigs is to update your resume and portfolio. Your resume should highlight your relevant skills, experience, and achievements, and be tailored to the specific gig you're applying for. You should also include a summary or objective statement that explains your goals, availability, and preferred type of work. Your portfolio should showcase your best and most recent projects, and demonstrate your proficiency in the programming languages, frameworks, tools, or domains that the gig requires. You should also include a link to your GitHub, Bitbucket, or other code repository, where you can display your code quality, documentation, and collaboration skills.

3 Negotiate your rates and terms

Once you find a temporary or contract programming gig that matches your skills and interests, you need to negotiate your rates and terms with the client. Your rates should reflect your level of expertise, the complexity and scope of the project, the market demand and supply, and your personal and professional expenses. You should also consider whether you want to charge by the hour, by the project, or by the milestone, and how often and how you want to get paid. Additionally, you need to discuss the terms of the contract, such as the duration, the deliverables, the communication methods, the feedback process, the revisions policy, and the termination clause. You should always have a written agreement that specifies these details and protects your rights and interests.

4 Manage your time and expectations

Finally, after you land a temporary or contract programming gig, you need to manage your time and expectations. You should set a realistic and achievable timeline for the project, and communicate it clearly to the client. You should also track your progress and report it regularly to the client, and ask for feedback and clarification when needed. You should also avoid scope creep, which is when the client requests additional features or changes that were not agreed upon in the contract. You should also balance your workload and prioritize your tasks, and avoid taking on too many gigs at once. You should also set boundaries and expectations for yourself, and respect your own health and well-being. You should also seek opportunities to learn new skills, improve your performance, and expand your network.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?