According to a study released in October 2015, more than 1/3 (or approximately 54 million) of the U.S. population are freelancers. Trend pieces continue to be written about the rising prevalence of the “gig economy,” where freelance workers across a wide spectrum of industries and skill sets work on an ad-hoc basis for multiple employers. But how can you use this rising preference for short-term contract work to the advantage of your business?
Freelancers are ideal for:
- Making items on your wish list into reality
Like most people, do you have something on your to-do list that you just can’t get completed because of your day to day responsibilities? A freelancer can focus their sole attention onto a desired project for the duration of time it takes to make it happen.
- Working around time constraints
Freelancers are used to adapting their schedules to fit the level of demand and working outside of normal business hours. If you need something turned around in a hurry, outsourcing may be your best choice.
- Ramping up resources
Do you have a large event or project that it would be helpful to staff up for? Freelancers can help fill the gaps by providing an additional resource during a limited time period, freeing up your existing staff to focus on their regular duties.
- Exploring new avenues
Freelancers are adept at creating a project scope that fits with any budget. Consider hiring one as a way to not only jumpstart projects, especially ones that may be outside of your organization’s comfort zone, but also to explore what your future needs might be before making a long-term financial commitment.
- Providing specialized knowledge
Your existing staff is talented. Otherwise, why would you have hired them? But that doesn’t necessarily mean they always have ALL the skills you might need to enhance your organization. Freelancers bring specific skill sets to play, which lets them hit the ground running.
- Bringing in an outside perspective
The definition of a freelancer is someone who works with multiple clients and projects. This means that they are constantly learning and being exposed to new ideas and organizational cultures. Let them use the knowledge gained from these varied experiences to the benefit of your organization by providing an unbiased perspective and see how it differs from the viewpoint of someone embedded in your company.
