Is it okay to note that you're a contractor on your linked in profile?

Hi Debra,

I was wondering if you could answer a question for me. I'm currently in a contract position. Is it okay to note that you're a contractor on your linked in profile while you continue to look for a perm position? Are there any pros? cons? to doing so.

Thanks so much for your time.

Bethany

Dear Bethany:

That’s a great question.  Yes, it is a good idea to define your title and role.  For example, if you are a contract project manager working through an agency for a company, you would write it like this:

Green Engineering (via Henderson, Clark, and Associates), Phoenix, AZ 
Project Manager/Contractor (2012 - Present)

If you are a direct contractor, you would present it this way:

Green Engineering, Phoenix, AZ 
Project Manager/Contractor (2012 - Present)

Contracting is very common.   Most employers do not see it as a negative.  Some people choose a contract work situation for their entire career.  Others take contract roles for short periods while looking for an ideal job or completing an education.  

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If you have a question for Deb, please email debra@careersdonewrite.com. The Ask Deb column appears every Friday on our blog at the Careers Done Write website.