Should you hire an employee or a freelancer? As a business owner, this is one of the most vital decisions you’ll have to make. After all, the success of a company will also depend largely on its workforce. So, making the wrong choice can have unwanted repercussions. But, how do you decide who to hire anyway?
First of all, though often mistaken for the same, there is a difference between an employee and a freelancer. Freelancers are self-employed, while employees are considered part of a company. Freelancers offer their services for a fee, while employees get a salary.
Benefits of Hiring an Employee
An employee works within the confines of a contract. This means they are to receive regular compensation and work under fixed hours. Employees are also entitled to certain benefits such as paid leaves, vacation days, and health insurance. The employer is also in charge of computing for their employee’s taxes. Employers must also provide employees with any equipment they require.
Employers have full control over their employee’s schedules, salaries, and workload.
Benefits of Hiring a Freelancer
Freelancers are generally self-sufficient. That is, they are in control of their schedules, taxes, and rates. Employers don’t need to offer freelancers any benefits. Freelancers don’t need a space in the company office and often work on short or recurring projects. Since they are self-sufficient, employers don’t have to provide freelancers with any equipment. They may also offer contracts to avoid getting shortchanged in case they come across a rogue client. All an employer has to worry about is the freelancer’s pay.
Things to Consider in Choosing
Workload available. Do you have enough work to keep a person constantly busy? If you don’t, you may end up having to pay for an employee’s idle hours. This does not bode well for the company in the long run. Hire an employee if you’re certain you have ongoing work. However, if your available workload is more sporadic, it’s better to opt for a freelancer.
Availability. Usually, freelancers tend to take on more than one client. They also work flexible hours. So, if availability and exclusivity is a big deal for you, freelancers may not be the best option.
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Related: Mistakes When Hiring Remote Workers