I work in the life sciences industry. I often take on gigs where my subject matter expertise is needed for a particular project or to backfill a maternity/medical leave. When I tell people that I'm a consultant, I often find that my client's employees take pity on me. I often get responses like "If things go well, I'm sure you'd be considered for a role in the department". I'm always flattered and I don't wish to offend them so I usually respond with something neutral like "you never know" and switch topics because in most cases I have no intention of seeking permanent employment with them. Does anyone else experience this?