Frequently Answered Questions
Whether you’re contracting for the first time, or thinking of contracting with us for the first time, there’s bound to be a few questions you want answered first.
As we’ve helped hundreds of freelancers and contractors find challenging, interesting and rewarding projects, that aren’t many things we haven’t been asked at least once.
Chances are we’ve already got the answers to your most burning questions below.
And if you can’t find what you’re looking for, then pick up the phone or drop us a line.
What is an appropriate day rate?
It’s not what you think you can get away with. There is no formula here as day rates vary massively. You will be able to charge more based on your experience and how closely your skills and experience match the opportunity. Dividing your last permanent salary by 365 is a good place to start, though contractors can achieve higher than this as compensation for lack of security and other employee benefits.
What is a typical project?
FreshMinds works across multiple sectors so it’s hard to say what a typical project is. You could be helping a strategy consultancy with the primary research part of a large due diligence piece, working on a proposition development project with a financial services institution or working with us in-house (FreshMinds Research) to solve a challenging problem for a client. Whatever you do, you’ll use the skills you’ve developed throughout your career and stretch your lateral thinking and ingenuity.
Can you guarantee me work?
In a word, no. Our workflow is entirely client driven, so we can’t promise to keep you busy all the time. However, we can promise to be completely up-front and honest so you can plan your time and income effectively and efficiently.
Can I work from home?
Usually not. Most projects will require you to work at our, or our clients’ offices. Only a small amount of work can be home-based and it tends to be very ad hoc.
Do you have projects based outside of London?
Yes, but the majority of our clients are based in London and the South East.
Can I work abroad?
Whilst we do have Minds who travel extensively for projects, most of the work is carried out in the UK.
Can I have two jobs? Can I work part-time?
Yes. Lots of our Minds combine our work with pursuing other interests. We have actors, actresses, musicians, magicians and film makers on our books. Generally, it works best if you can be fully available in bursts rather than exclusively part-time, but depending on your situation we’ll try and accommodate you as best we can.
When am I a contractor versus a temporary worker?
Unfortunately it’s not always clear cut and can be determined by the nature of the project. But as a general rule of thumb, if you are carrying out a discrete project and managing your own time and resources then you may be eligible to work as a contractor. If you’re working in a client’s premises and being directed by them, you are likely to be considered a temporary worker.
How many people are in the Mind pool?
The Mind pool is large. We’re in touch with over 500 people at any one time. When a project lands on our desk, we match interests and skills as closely as possible from our Mind pool.
Do I have to be interviewed for each project?
We only accept candidates into the Mind pool following a rigorous up-front screening process, so once you’re accepted you will begin to receive project work. However, some projects by their nature and timelines may require further interviews.
Can I use my languages?
Mais oui! We have clients across Europe and beyond, although a lot of our language work requires native or near-native level fluency.