Who couldn’t use a little more flexibility in life, especially now? If you are a business owner, there is a good chance that you, your business and your employees are navigating a new normal. For some this might mean working from home while others are back in the office. Business might be booming, or it could be slow.
With so many variables to consider, it is important to have a plan of how to successfully navigate the changing dynamics, particularly by being prepared to staff up or staff down at a moment’s notice. One of the best ways to create this level of flexibility is by engaging contingent workers. Known by several names – contractor, freelancer, or consultant – contingent workers are hired for a specified amount of time when a business has a need for extra assistance in the workforce.
Extensive Experience
Contingent workers represent a growing field of employees with extensive experience in particular skillsets. These individuals may also specialize in an industry or they might share these skills across multiple disciplines. Engaged on a contract for a specified project and timeframe, the contingent worker moves on to another organization for a new role when the existing project and/or timeframe is complete.
When it feels like there is too much to do and too few people to do the work, contingent workers can add in needed flexibility, allowing a business to respond to market needs and demands in real-time. Temporary workers can also help fill in a skills gap when a skill doesn’t exist among employees in the organization and/or training someone in-house could take too long. Best of all, contingent workers are pros at walking into a new environment and hitting the ground running.
Types of Contingent Workers
Temporary workers – Short-term (weeks to months) and often work onsite.
Consultants – Highly specialized advisors that assist with strategy, marketing, patents, and intellectual property.
Independent contractors – Freelancers, consultants and gig workers who are self-employed.
Contingent Vs. Full-time Employees
- Hired by third-party staffing vendors
- Paid according to the urgency of a project
- No commitment to retain after the contract
- Paid hourly or after completing a contract
- Not eligible to receive any employee benefits
- Project- and results-oriented work style
Finding the right contingent workers for your organization is as easy as pairing with the right staffing agency. One staffing partner should be all you need to fill multiple roles and/or multiple disciplines. When working with a staffing agency, you will want to team up with recruiters that take the time to learn about your company and its needs. An employee staffing partner should also be willing to work closely with in-house HR personnel to ensure all compliance requirements are met. To learn more about the benefits of hiring contingency workers for your business, contact Staffing Kansas City today.
