There are a number of reasons why hiring contractors can be a great solution for your business:
Flexibility
Get the resources you need when you need them and how you need them, regardless of the duration. When fluctuating workloads mean an ever-changing requirement for staff, hiring contractors enables you to expand or contract without unnecessary expense.
Available immediately or with short notice
Those candidates suitable for contract work will be available now, or to start with short notice meaning that they can be onboard in a matter of days. Remember when working with a recruitment consultant to find a contract, you will need to streamline your interview/onboarding process to move fast to secure those contractors you want to bring on board (The temp market moves fast!).
Ability to fit in – and fast!
Seasoned contractors are used to adapting to different cultures, teams, tools and systems. Hitting the ground running is a pre-requisite in a successful contractor in addition to this, the very nature of contract roles means that contractors remain removed from any office politics that may exist. The emphasis is on getting the job done.
Cost-efficiency
Employing contractors enables your business to hire and let go as your needs require. This helps you avoid all of the costs associated with hiring a permanent member of staff such as extensive training, sickness, annual leave and redundancy.
Hiring without headcount
If your business is under a headcount freeze or you are awaiting sign-off on a permanent role, but still in need of resources, hiring a contractor should be part of your recruitment strategy.
Coverage
Contractors can help your business headcount shortages by covering resource needs during maternity, sick, sabbatical and long-service leave. We can also help ‘bridge the gap’ between the departure of a permanent staff member and the eventual permanent replacement. In a market where finding the perfect permanent employee may take some time, contracting could be the solution. Contractors are also a great option for seasonal peaks in workload, such as covering a busy year-end.
Working interviews
Hiring talent on a contract basis also allows you the freedom to assess if the candidate is the right fit for your business before you commit to a permanent hire. It can also help in times of uncertainty where you elect to hire on a contracting basis until it is clear there is a permanent requirement. Try a working interview in replacement of a traditional interview and let the contractors’ skills and attitude show you why they should be kept around for the duration of the contract.
To find out more about what contracting can do for your business, please reach out to me here.