Let’s Bust Some Myths!
Our recent networking sessions in Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney focused on working with managing contractors. Not only did our incredible speakers share their valuable experiences and insights but they also busted a lot of myths associated with working for Managing Contractors, NGOs and government.
Myth: Managing contractors are all bloodsuckers, only there to line their own pockets!
Nope. Managing Contractors (MCs) are there to implement projects in a range of areas that make a long-term difference to the lives of people living in communities experiencing poverty and needing skills and expertise to bring clean water and sanitation, health, education and build infrastructure and a lot more.
Myth: Everyone working for Managing Contractors are super smart
No. Just like with NGO’s and government there is a mixed bag of skills and expertise and a place for everyone to work.
Myth: Some people working in DFAT are not interested in international development
Nope. DFAT staff are just as passionate and committed about making a difference in international communities – we are all working hard to achieve the same positive outcomes.
Myth: Managing Contractors are rolling in funds to implement programs
Nope. Resources are lean and thin, so staff must work incredibly efficiently – just as everyone does in the Australian NGO Cooperation Program.
Myth: Managing Contractors are only working to make a buck.
Not at all. Those working as managing contractors are just as passionate about the environment, international development and making positive change. Both MCs and NGOs employ people who are driven by values and hard workers who understand that with low money is scarce and hard to get both through government and multilateral grants or donor fundraising.
Myth: Only NGO’s have to go through accreditation, which is a massive, rigorous compliance process
Nope. Managing Contractors have to prove their systems, processes and risk management credentials through a thorough due diligence process too.
Myth: Managing Contractors have cut-throat competition between each other all the time
Yes and No! There is very, very strong competition on bids for work. But they otherwise work collaboratively because everyone is in the same business to make people's lives better and collaboration is what sees you through the dark days on projects.
Myth: Managing Contractors are all boys’ clubs
Yes and No! It can be a masculine environment, especially on major technical, infrastructure projects - but there are plenty of smart and capable women in senior positions. There are some organisations that aim to employ just women!
Myth: It’s hard to get a role with a Managing Contractor
Yes and No. Whilst yes, there is plenty of competition for positions, you should just apply - they are always looking for good staff and also welcome staff who have previously worked in government or NGOs.
Myth: People working in NGOs couldn’t handle the pace and demands of Managing Contractors
Nope. They are equally qualified, experienced and creative and work at a fast pace - many work in MCs too.
Myth: Managing Contractors just implement projects – they don’t try to change the policy environment or government funding models.
Not at all. Many MCs now belong to the IDCC (International Development Contracting Coalition) formed to do just that and has worked with ACFID on some issues in Canberra.