Freelancer
An independent contractor an agency hires on a flexible, per-project basis to add skills or capacity without a permanent hire.
For example, an agency keeps a roster of trusted freelance writers and developers it calls on when projects spike. It scales up for a big launch and back down afterwards, paying only for the work without carrying the fixed cost between projects.
Why it matters to agencies: freelancers give an agency elastic capacity - a way to take on more work or specialist skills without the risk of a full-time salary. Used well they protect margin and flexibility; the trade-off is managing quality, availability and confidentiality across people who are not on the team full time.
- Relying on a freelancer with no backup.
- No clear contract on IP and confidentiality.
- Misclassifying a freelancer who is really an employee.
What is a freelancer?
An independent contractor an agency hires on a flexible, per-project basis to add skills or capacity without a permanent hire.
What is the difference between a freelancer and a subcontractor?
Largely overlapping - 'freelancer' usually implies an individual hired flexibly, while 'subcontractor' stresses the contractual relationship of delivering part of a project.
Why do agencies use freelancers?
For elastic capacity and specialist skills without the fixed cost and commitment of a permanent hire.
How do agencies manage freelancers well?
Clear briefs and scope, reliable availability, a confidentiality and IP agreement, and enough markup to cover management.