It is now more important than ever to keep contracting skills up-to-date, according to one expert.

The launch of the coalition's skills strategy has confirmed that freelancers will remain responsible for organising their own training and keeping their skills up to date.

Dave Chaplin, chief executive officer of industry website Contractor Calculator, says that a fear of falling behind the competition in terms of skills is why many people choose to remain in permanent employment.

Keeping contracting skills up to date is easier when contracting, he writes on the site, as you are in control.

A good development strategy is important if you have not undertaken the continuing professional development (CPD) required of a chartered professional.

Mr Chaplin advises contractors to think about training which will benefit the clients, although not to force new technology unnecessarily on clients.

"If your client recognises the benefits of your skills development to their business, it's a done deal and a win-win," he noted.