Are you searching for a change of scenery from your current job or looking for work within the education field? Is searching for that job becoming a tireless task? If you want a job with a little more freedom and flexibility than average, being an independent contractor might be the change you were looking for! So, what exactly is an independent contractor?
In the grand scheme of things, you work like an employee but you are paid through a third party company, like us! But the big difference between employees and independent contractors is mostly within finances. An independent contractor does not get their taxes automatically taken out of their paychecks while an employee does. Although this requires a little extra planning to make sure you can pay them at the end of the year, there are a ton of other benefits!
Here are some benefits of being an independent contractor:
- Stressful Job Hunting Days Are Over: Humanus will do all the hard work of job hunting for you! We spend lots of time looking for that perfect position. Finding a school that fits your demeanor and meets your career objectives is of utmost importance.
- No Annual Contracts or Strict Start/End Date: Annual contracts can be a big commitment, but independent contracting jobs are flexible. Hours can vary from per diem to full time and just because the school year starts in August, doesn’t mean you can’t start in November. Schools are constantly hiring throughout the year and with flexible start dates, you can start anytime!
- Trial Period & Experience: If you do not have a lot of experience in the field or with teaching, this is a wonderful way to get your toes in the water. Independent contracting gives you the feel of working in a school and an opportunity to see if it is really something you’d like to pursue. Often times, if the school is a good fit, after a certain number of hours, they will hire you on as a permanent part of their team. Independent contracting is a great way to get your foot in the door!
- No Tax Withhold and Lots of Tax Deductions: Since taxes are not taken out of your paycheck as an independent contractor, you have a little extra cash in your pocket. Remember that you will owe some at the end of the year, though. (We suggest talking to a tax professional to ensure everything goes smoothly.) As an independent contractor, you also get more tax write-offs. The list is extensive; including everything from mileage to classroom supplies.
- Increased Independence: Being an Independent contractor means you are self-employed. To an extent, you are your own boss. Understandably though, within the education field, you must follow the school’s schedules and procedures. But there are some cases that may give you an opportunity to work nontraditional hours. These hours are normally worked out between you and the student based on both of your schedules.
- Variety: Working at the same place day in and day out can become monotonous and exhausting. With independent contracting, you can pick and choose your cases. You can have multiple cases at several locations or just one at a single location. How many cases you take on is completely up to you, and with students’ needs constantly changing, there is always something new.
- Networking: It is always a great idea to grow your circle in your network. While working at schools, you can meet tons of teachers and other professionals that share the same passion for education as you. This is also a great way to become inspired and share success stories. Chances are those teachers were once independent contractors, too.
If you are interested in becoming an independent contractor through Humanus, or you would like more information, feel free to reach out to us. Your opportunity is waiting!
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