My first programming job started with a two week contract which then ultimately became a FT position. So I accepted a position like that and it worked out fine

My first programming job started with a two week contract which then ultimately became a FT position. So I accepted a position like that and it worked out fine, but honestly, I will never do it again. I only accepted it in the first place because I was a desperate, inexperienced hire without any alternatives. Now I'm more skilled and have experience that demonstrates at least some ability. Accordingly, I don't need to take those kinds of risks. Just because I'm good, maybe the boss's wife decides she doesn't like me or I lose some political blame-the-new-guy game, or they decide on entirely different qualities in a hire, or whatever. In this climate that sort of risk is their problem. I also won't do 10 hour programming 'tests' and I'm pretty reluctant to do several full-day programming interview marathon sessions. It sucks, I don't want to take the time off for that crap, and most importantly... I don't have to. This means there are places I can't work at, but there are plenty that would be glad to have me, and that suits me fine.