Are you looking for a new hire to fill the gaps in your business but don't quite have the capacity to take on a permanent employee?

Contracting has become a popular career choice for many skilled professionals and offers many benefits for both employer and employee. It usually comes as a result of unforeseen circumstances such as an overwhelming workload that needs to be managed quickly, extended annual leave, maternity leave, short projects, or the interim between an employee leaving and a new one starting.

Let's take a closer look at the benefits of hiring contract staff…

Flexibility

Hiring a contractor is perfect for a short-term role or if you're not sure exactly how long you need them. Hiring is a lot more flexible; you are able to bring on a new team member much quicker than a permanent employee, which is great if you need them to get the work done ASAP.

This flexibility also protects your permanent team's positions. If you're only bringing on contractors during peak times, you'll be able to maintain your employee headcount at all times – resulting in them feeling safe and secure in their jobs.

Try Before You Buy

You might be considering taking on a permanent staff member but you're hesitant in case you hire the wrong person. In which case, contracting offers a unique 'try before you buy' option for your peace of mind. Some companies even hire 'temp to (possible) perm' roles for a trial period to see if that person has the necessary skills and personality for the job.

Given the cost of making a hiring mistake, this option is fitting when vetting potential employees that perhaps don't match the exact mould of what you're looking for in terms of skillset or culture fit. Success in the contract period can prove that it could be the perfect match when you might not have typically considered that person.

Cost Saving

Many of the overhead costs associated with permanent hires can be reduced by taking on contract staff. While they often have a higher rate, when you are hiring contract workers with a specific skill set, there will be fewer costs associated with onboarding, training, and professional development. You'll also be saving on other costs associated with permanent staff, such as personal and annual leave pay, payroll taxes, workers' compensation and insurance premiums.

The main benefit of the hourly/day rate contract is that you only pay for the hours the contractor works. If your contractor is working for you through a recruitment agency, you only pay the cost for and after the hours they've worked – usually on a weekly basis.

Morgan Consulting can provide you with payroll support and staff compliance for all of your temporary workers, making it easier for your accounts team to manage the costs.

Expertise

A study by Mavenlink found that 79% of executives believe the agility of a contractor has a huge competitive advantage; you can simply 'plug and play' instantly. An expert in their field who can hit the ground running is a big saving to your time and resources. All you need to do is pay an all-inclusive rate to your recruitment agency.

You can hire for the specific skill set you need - particularly helpful if it's a short-term position and your company has no current staff with those skills. For many experienced professionals, contracting is both a career and lifestyle choice; and that's why they charge a higher rate.

Quick Recruitment Process 

Contractors are often open to flexible working arrangements, so, in urgent situations, you can have a temp with your business on the same day you request one. Morgan Consulting has an extensive database of screened, interviewed and referenced contract staff at your disposal if needed. We can also offer advice on which contracting option is suitable for your individual situation.

Should you find yourself needing a cover for maternity or paternity leave, absence due to illness, extended annual leave, or sudden departure of a permanent employee, hiring a contract worker is the ideal way to lessen the load and continue with business as usual.