Using contractors in your business
How contractors can add value to your business
For some industries contractors have been a key and strategic resource which have been an integral part of how they develop their business and how they manage long-term and short-term growth. While some organisations see contractors solely as a means of plugging planned and unplanned staffing shortfalls, others have employed contractors as a significant force for change. For some industries and companies though, contractors are only just becoming a viable and valuable source of expertise.
What to look for when interviewing contractors:
- They have the skills and experience to do the job
- They are confident and assertive, without being too pushy or arrogant
- They are likeable and can work with people of different levels and personality types
- They are clearly focused on delivery and success
- They have good communication skills, can motivate others and are not afraid to listen
- They are inquisitive and not afraid to ask questions
- They have a proven track record in your industry and with similar projects
- They are commercially aware
What to be careful of:
- They are too focused on how they can benefit rather than how you will benefit
- They are overly creative when talking about previous experience
- They talk too much and like the sound of their own voice
- They are too forceful with their opinions
- They are focused purely on the project and do not consider the commercial implications of delivery
- They are not open to other perspectives
- They lack flexibility
- They do not ask questions about your company or look to learn more about the project/assignment