Embracing Tomorrow’s Workers: The Rise of Independent Contractors

Understanding key challenges and opportunities when utilizing an independent contractor workforce.

Independent contractors (1099 workers, freelancers) are becoming an increasingly popular choice for acquiring talent among companies of all sizes, but especially small-and-midsized businesses (SMBs). These self-employed workers offer flexibility, specialized skill sets, and cost-effective solutions that traditional employees cannot always provide.

However, managing independent contractors can come with its own set of challenges. It can also be risky for the company if it doesn’t have systems in place to properly classify, pay, manage, and report on how it is using independent contractors.

This report is based on a survey of 300 leaders from companies in a variety of industries. Researchers asked the leaders key questions about how their companies are currently managing independent contractors, what systems they use to manage those contractors, and what challenges they’ve faced in the process.