Hiring Freelance Help In Tough Economic Times Or Anytime

Many companies are finding that freelance or independent contractor help is an ideal employment arrangement for all involved. Whether you are a small company that has grown to the point of needing additional help but are not ready or able to carry full-time help or a large company that is in the midst of downsizing operations; the freelance option provides you with personnel who usually have years of experience in their respective fields and have the skill set needed to assist you immediately so you can continue with business as usual.

Who are freelance workers?

Freelance workers may be in-between jobs, stay-at-home moms, or some have chosen freelance work as a full-time pursuit. Freelance workers usually work from home or have their own office space and in certain cases can also be onsite depending on the client needs or project requirements. As skilled workers continue to flood the market, employers can tap into a wealth of resources without the long-term commitment or the overhead cost of hiring full-time personnel.

What type of assistance can a freelance worker offer?

The internet age has opened doors for people of all backgrounds and skill sets to assume various roles for companies. Traditional freelance services might have included writers, artists, and photographers but in todays digital world, non-traditional roles such as administrative services, web development and computer support can be managed remotely using online communication tools and resources.

Pros and cons of temporary employment agencies

Temporary employment agencies are a good solution if the assignments are general in nature or short-term. Temporary agencies can also help you if you are looking for specialized personnel and lack the time to screen and interview potential employees for full time positions. However the nature of most contracts with employment agencies is a 3-month term at a bill rate of 50% or more of the persons hourly rate or a buyout option usually no less than 20% of the persons annual salary. In addition to the sometimes astronomical rate you will pay, if you operate out of a home office, temporary services do not allow that type of employment arrangement.

What are the benefits of hiring freelance workers?

Freelance or independent contractor employment arrangements offer you flexibility and reduced cost. You can hire an expert for project work without having to worry about keeping that person on payroll long-term. Additionally, freelance workers can save you significant amounts of money as they do not receive health benefits and you as an employer are not responsible for paying payroll taxes or for offering unemployment benefits.

Payment terms and contracts

It is very important to establish contracts and payment terms up front when working with independents. Contracts should state exactly what tasks are to be preformed and specific milestones or deadlines for completion. If the work is confidential in nature, a confidentiality and/or non-disclosure agreement should be included as part of the contractual agreement. Payment terms should be clearly specified and understood by both parties before work begins to avoid any delays or disputes along the way.

Freelancing is becoming a readily accepted practice for more and more individuals and companies alike. If you have not considered a freelance worker as part of a successful plan for the interim or for future growth, maybe its time to take a second look.