In today’s dynamic, rapidly evolving and multigenerational business landscape, the gig economy has emerged as a powerful force, offering a hidden talent goldmine that many organisations are currently overlooking. The gig economy refers to a labour market characterised by short-term contracts or freelance work as opposed to permanent jobs. According to CIPD the number in self-employment has risen to 4.2 million in the first quarter of 2023. (CIPD)​. Freelancers and gig workers bring a wealth of expertise and flexibility that can be invaluable to businesses looking to stay competitive. However, to fully harness this potential, it’s crucial to engage with them effectively and build strong, collaborative relationships. 

Benefits of Hiring Freelancers

  1. Freelancers often possess specialised skills and expertise that might not be available in-house. Whether it’s graphic design, software development, or marketing strategy, gig workers bring a depth of knowledge that can be leveraged for specific projects.
  2. Hiring freelancers can be more cost-effective than maintaining a full-time workforce. You can scale up or down based on project needs, avoiding the long-term financial commitments associated with permanent employees.
  3. Freelancers provide the flexibility to quickly respond to changing business demands. This is particularly beneficial for startups and small businesses that need to adapt rapidly to market conditions.

Building Strong Relationships with Freelancers

Treat Them as Part of the Team

One common mistake businesses make is treating freelancers as outsiders. To maximise anyone’s potential, it’s essential to integrate them into your team culture and freelancers are no different. This can be achieved by:

Onboarding

Just like full-time employees, it’s crucial for freelancers to go through an onboarding process to familiarise them with your company’s values, goals, and workflows, and get immersed in the organisation’s culture. A thorough onboarding process helps freelancers understand their role within the larger framework of the company. Here are some key steps to include in the onboarding process:

  • Welcome Orientation: Start with a welcome session that introduces the company’s mission, vision, and values. 
  • Documentation and Tools: Provide access to necessary documentation, including style guides, project management tools, and communication platforms.
  • Training Sessions: Offer training sessions on company-specific processes, software, and tools. 
  • Mentorship: Assign a mentor or a point of contact who can answer questions and provide guidance during the initial stages. 

Communication

Maintaining regular communication with freelancers is essential to keep them engaged and informed. Here are some strategies for effective communication:

  • Regular Meetings: Schedule regular check-ins and team meetings (depending on the project needs).
  • Collaboration Tools: Use collaboration tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Trello to facilitate regular and continuous communication. 
  • Open Channels: Ensure that freelancers have access to open communication channels with team members and managers. This openness helps in quick resolution of issues and fosters a sense of belonging.

Feedback

Providing positive and developmental feedback is crucial for maintaining motivation and engagement among freelancers. Here’s how you can effectively deliver feedback:

  • Timely Feedback: Provide feedback promptly after task completion. 
  • Balanced Approach: Use a balanced approach by highlighting both strengths and areas of opportunity for development. 
  • Recognition: Recognise the contributions of freelancers. Recognition not only boosts morale but also encourages a sense of accomplishment and loyalty.
  • One-on-One Sessions: Schedule regular one-on-one sessions to discuss performance, address concerns, and set future goals. 

Engagement and Motivation

Engaging freelancers goes beyond paying them for their work. It involves creating a mutually beneficial relationship where they feel valued and motivated. Here are some strategies:

  • Clear Expectations: Set clear, achievable goals and deadlines. Ensure that freelancers understand the scope of their work and what is expected of them.
  • Involvement in Decision-Making: Involve freelancers in brainstorming sessions and strategic discussions. This not only makes them feel valued but also brings diverse perspectives to the table.
  • Professional Development: Offer opportunities for freelancers to upskill. This could be through access to training programs or industry conferences.

Building Long-Term Relationships

While freelancers may work on a project basis, building long-term relationships is highly beneficial. A pool of trusted freelancers who understand your business is a significant asset. To cultivate long-term relationships, consider the following:

  • Consistent Work: Provide consistent work opportunities. Freelancers are more likely to stay engaged with clients who offer regular projects.
  • Fair Compensation: Pay competitive rates and offer timely payments. This builds trust and reliability.
  • Recognition: Recognise and reward their contributions. Simple gestures like a thank-you note or other form of recognition can go a long way in building loyalty.

The gig economy represents a vast, untapped workforce brimming with potential. By treating freelancers as integral parts of your team, engaging them effectively, and building long-term relationships, your business can unlock significant value.

This blogpost was written by  Nina Szewczak one of our CIPD tutors here at Oxford College of Management. If you’re interested in taking your HR or People Management career to the next level, take a look at our wide range of CIPD qualifications.