Reading a contract like a status specialist
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Most "inside" outcomes are baked into the contract before anyone assesses anything. Review for these clauses before signature — and remember the contract must match the reality you'll actually work.
Strike or renegotiate
- Personal service + absolute veto: make substitution unconditional beyond skill/quality and security checks
- "Such other duties": replace with a change-control clause priced per day
- Ongoing/rolling term: fixed term tied to the project, extendable by agreement
- Exclusivity: never accept a ban on other clients unless the day rate buys it out
Keep and strengthen
- Deliverable definitions with acceptance gates
- Company-to-company payment terms (14–30 days)
- Statement that no employment relationship is created
- The SDS as a schedule, with the client's reasons
Get it checked
A specialist contract review costs a fraction of one month's margin. Pair it with the 24-point checklist and the first-contract guide before you sign.
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