Contract flying dos don'ts and thoughts

[dragon]

Time has come to consider some options. [For those interested and relatively unencumbered, especially with a heavy or Airbus endorsement, there are a surprising amount of possibilities.] As I do, may I solicit the contract world experiences of others that had trodden that path.

Any pros, cons and particular areas of concern in which you may offer up for consideration?

Many thanks

dragon

[Guest WF9F]

The first few months of training,even if your endorsed,can be very frustrating.The company training and foreign license requirements can be a long drawn out experience.Keep an open mind.

Don't bring your previous employers SOP's or the way THEY do things with you on the contract.This is a new job and can be very different from where you worked before.Simply put,do the job the way they want you to do it.

Also,see when you are getting paid.Some contract companies pay you after you worked a month others wait for you to submit your month then they pay you.You may have to submit a form with your month's work on it then wait for aapproval,blah blah.You could have to wait up to 2 month's before you see any pay.

Hope this helps,

WF9F

[Guest Panama Jack]

As a good rule of thumb, think of yourself as a "business contractor" rather than a "pilot." Although you probably already are, be courteous to everyone, don't get involved in the politics and avoid getting caught complaining. Think of how you want the guy who builds your house, paints the walls, advises you on your finances, or is your real estate agent to behave and use that as a role model.