Subj : Re: Fulltime contracting? Which field? To : comp.programming From : Duane Arnold Date : Mon Aug 15 2005 08:01 am "Dan" wrote in news:ddod0k$osh$1$8300dec7@news.demon.co.uk: > Hi. Just a quick question regarding contracting. I'm currently a > programmer in the computer games industry, and have been programming > as a fulltime job for 7 years. I'm looking to get into doing > contracting, and am thinking that I'm more likely to be successful if > I do something other than games programming. My main strength is > Windows and DirectX programming. I've done a lot of application > programming too. But I'm a quick learner, so can quickly learn other > stuff like SQL. My question is what's the most sort after type of > programming for fulltime contractors? I'm guessing it's SQL - but > could me wrong ;) > You will be hired based on what is on your resume such as track or work record showing that you have ability and expertise with a given technology or technologies. That may also include what type of applications such a Web business applications, Windows desktop application business solutions, client server applications business solutions, applications using SQL Server or other database solutions such as Oracle in bussiness solutions, etc. In addition, expertise in business solutions such as accounting, general ledger, inventory, health, insurance, time accounting, payroll, Human Resources/Benefits, regulatory management etc in the various business sectors that you may be trying to apply for a contract. You cannot get a contract at least here in the US without going through a placement/consulting firm and they are testing your expertise in a technology such as SQL, C++, ASP, Javascript, VB, .NET etc, etc with on- line tests. If you cannot past those tests, then you will not be considered. I don't know about the UK but in the US to be a contractor, one had better be able to show some expertise with various technologies and a proven work record using those technologies. In general, companies are not going to pay to train a contractor in most cases, one had better know what's happening when they hit the door or have a good idea about what is happening and can pull it off. Duane :) .