How to get contract work in three easy steps (Part 3 of 3)

The Follow up Phone Call

Unlike the previous post on the initial email contact, phone conversations tend to be unpredictable. There is no exact blueprint for this type of call, it could go in any direction. I will however, endeavour to give you some advice on how to conduct the call.

The purpose of the call
There are two main purposes to this call:

establishing that the firm has got your email — It is amazing the number of times that an email is lost or doesn’t get to the right person
arranging a face-to-face meeting

Keep in Mind
Before you make the call keep these things in mind.

be polite and courteous
it could take days or even weeks before you get to talk to the right person in the company
write down the names of each person you talk to
keep notes on what was said
Keep it brief — the other person is likely to be busy
Remember you are selling a business proposition, your purpose is to add value to the firm you contract for

Who you get to talk to
Your first phone contact is usually the receptionist. Introduce yourself and ask if <Joe Blogs> is available and explain why you are calling.

From here you will either be put through to Joe, (or someone who looks after that area of the business) or, if Joe is unavailable: you will need to call back. Make sure you ask for a convenient time to call. If it is a choice between them calling you or you calling them: Personally, I prefer to call them — that way I am mentally prepared for the conversation.

Once you get through to the person you need to talk to:

again, introduce yourself
ask if they have a moment to talk
ask if they received your email — If they haven’t received it – explain briefly what you want and ask if you can resend the email to them.
ask if they have any use for your skills — If no; ask if you can be kept in mind for any future projects
thank them for their time

That’s it! With any luck they will be interested in meeting you, and it will be the start of a long and profitable relationship.

Keep in Touch

You may or may not get any work first time round, but keep in contact. Keep them informed of what your availability is and any cool new sites you have done etc. The more visible you are to them; the more likely you are to get work. The caveat to this is: don’t spam them!

Conclusion

Hopefully, in this series of posts I have given you a few ideas on how to approach firms to get contract work. Good luck and happy contracting. TTFN.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Contract Work

What are the key elements of a legally binding contract?

A legally binding contract must have four key elements: agreement, consideration, intention to create legal relations, and certainty. Agreement refers to the mutual understanding between parties about their rights and obligations. Consideration is something of value exchanged between the parties, such as money, goods, or services. Intention to create legal relations means both parties intend the contract to be legally enforceable. Certainty means the terms of the contract must be clear and definite.

How can I ensure my contract is legally enforceable?

To ensure your contract is legally enforceable, it must meet the key elements of a contract. Additionally, it should be in writing and signed by all parties involved. It’s also important to include a clause stating the contract is governed by the laws of a specific jurisdiction.

What should I include in a contract for contract work?

A contract for contract work should include details about the scope of work, payment terms, deadlines, and termination conditions. It should also specify the rights and obligations of both parties, and any penalties for breach of contract.

How do I follow up after a verbal job offer?

After receiving a verbal job offer, it’s important to send a follow-up email to confirm the details of the offer. This email should thank the employer for the offer, confirm the key terms of the offer, and express your enthusiasm for the role.

How can I get a government contract?

To get a government contract, you need to register your business with the government’s System for Award Management (SAM). You should also research potential contracting opportunities on the Federal Business Opportunities website.

What is the process of creating a contract?

The process of creating a contract involves negotiation, drafting, review, and signing. During negotiation, the parties discuss the terms of the contract. Once the terms are agreed upon, the contract is drafted and reviewed by both parties. If both parties are satisfied with the contract, they sign it to make it legally binding.

How can I protect my interests in a contract?

To protect your interests in a contract, you should clearly define your rights and obligations, include a dispute resolution clause, and ensure the contract is legally enforceable. It’s also advisable to seek legal advice before signing a contract.

What happens if a contract is breached?

If a contract is breached, the injured party may seek remedies such as damages, specific performance, or cancellation of the contract. The specific remedy will depend on the nature of the breach and the terms of the contract.

Can I negotiate the terms of a contract?

Yes, you can negotiate the terms of a contract. Negotiation is a key part of the contract creation process. It’s important to communicate your needs and concerns clearly during negotiation to ensure the contract meets your needs.

What is a contract vehicle?

A contract vehicle is a streamlined method the government uses to buy goods and services. It’s a pre-negotiated contract that agencies can use to purchase a wide array of products and services.