Maximizing your opportunities

by Dale Davidson

Once you get your first 1099 gig, it may be tempting to sit around and just do your job.

That could work for a while, but if you want to set your future self up for success, here are some ways to maximize the opportunities available for you.

Government client

  • Solidify the relationship and even become friends with the client
  • Attend client meetings with other government employees
  • After the project ends ask for referrals to other projects or other more senior government employees

Prime program manager

  • Ask about other sub-contract opportunities with the company
  • Ask the PM to sponsor you for a Facility Clearance (FCL)
  • Ask for intros to other PMs

Other government contractors employees

  • Become friendly with them (happy hours, chit-chat, etc.)
  • Ask for introductions to their PMs
  • Ask for introductions to their contacts at other companies

Most of these tips are focused on building good relationships with the different people you interact with so they'd be happy to make introductions for you. Using all these tips I've secured new projects, a Facility Clearance, and even hired a few employees.

Of course, don't become a cynical networking machine. Be a normal human being and be helpful to these people first before you start asking for favors.

Want the full playbook? Check out Going 1099.

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