Unfair Contracts and Questionable Business Practices
Pros
Work from home or anywhere with internet access, set your own hours, some autonomy. They try to do team-building activities such as playing email bingo and virtual holiday parties with expected participation.
Cons
Watch out for the contract language especially the indemnification clause, which translates to the contractor holding the company harmless from any legal action, settlements, and attorney fees. The Contractor will be responsible for all costs if the Company is sued. It's not fair for a shallow pocket Contract to assume the Company's liability. Also, expect to be treated like an employee not an independent contractor. IRS job classification of independent contractor vs employee is questionable, since training and supervision of other contractors is a job requirement for some positions. The contract compensation terms are unclear, do not expect an increase each year or flexibility in re-negotiating terms of contacts. Very little upward mobility. The Company micromanages in some cases and turns a blind eye in others, as convenient to the situation. There are no paid benefits, no paid holidays. Contractors are expected to work until the job is done, weekends and holidays included. Performance is monitored with monthly processing time feedback and trend analysis.
