Remember:
Lyran contracts are strictly business. Higher standing, but more from a numbers standpoint than a military/tactical POV. They might pay well, but they might leave you at the harsh end of a boomstick if problems arise. Good supply access though.
Kuritan contracts will seem generous at times, but very short on supplies... and they charge you a LOT for access to their logistics when you need them.
FWL are likely to be more political and nuanced, can be interesting but can be problematic... one state preying on the other, etc.
Capellans treat their mercs well enough, but you're likely to find yourself with little other than militia as backup (and I don't just mean the 4th SS War)
Davions are bland, probably require higher standing, and a wide range of generic fighting. Expect fair, but not spectacular actions.
Periphery is desperation, the low end and probably only choice when you're disreputable, but there's opportunity for redemption... low-to-decent pay though weak access to supplies (cept for the TC). Lot more freedom for full salvage rights, and you can go looking for lostech caches (if you can swing your own jumpship somehow)
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There are a few merc books that have different systems in them, but you may want to get them just for the perspective on hiring practices and the like.
Might also want to peruse the old house books for ideas in setting up contracts to offer them.
Also consider your better pilots playing on Solaris in-between contracts (only the ones who own their mechs) as a way to generate the smaller pick-up games, etc. When you only get 2-3 players show up, or don't have time for a larger battle. Quick way to pick up some extra salvage, minor money and fame