Ask HN: Selling your contract work

[ndcrandall]

I'm just curious if there is any service out there that allows you to buy and sell the current contract jobs you have to others in the form of leads / introductions?

When I need to part ways with a contract I don't want to leave the client without a developer. I've noticed that my recommendations are highly regarded by the client. Usually I will tap into my network and pass along the work no strings attached, but couldn't almost guaranteed work for a set amount generate revenue? I'm sure there is something out there and would like to see it.

[murtza]

Interesting idea. It also would be worthwhile to explore the potential of a marketplace where you can buy and sell retainers or monthly maintenance contracts.

For example, let's say you built a website for a client and included a monthly maintenance contract to fix any security issues, yet you do not have the time to service that obligation. Then you could go to such a marketplace, sell that contract, and fulfill your contractual obligations.

[ndcrandall]

I hadn't thought of that, but you're right, it's fairly common to have a retainer with certain contracts. It's related enough fit well into a site like that.

[redspark]

I don't know of anything like that, but could definitely see a market for it.

We do some of that in a consultancy masterclass I am part of, but nothing that organized.

[ndcrandall]

So I've never been apart of a group of consultants, I usually just have personal connections that would fit well taking over the contract. I imagine this is commonly done with other consultants, but I'm not sure of the frequency.

Sometimes I just want to get rid of a client and it would be nice to find an exact fit than refer a friend who isn't totally qualified for the position.

[jamesjguthrie]

> could definitely see a market for it

Yep me too, I'd definitely buy some of the contracts as work is tough to come by here in Scotland!