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There are several categories of jobs. Many people work in traditional employment with a set schedule and salary, but others embrace less conventional work arrangements. There are three general categories of non-traditional forms of employment:

  • Gig Workers
  • Freelancers
  • Contingent workers.

So what are the similarities and differences between them? Here is a closer look.

Three Types of Non-Traditional Employment

What is a Gig Worker

A gig worker is a person who works as an independent contractor, typically on a short-term or project basis. Gig workers are hired to perform specific tasks or projects and are not considered employees of the company or organization that employs them. Gig workers can work in various fields, including but not limited to technology, creative industries, marketing, and administrative support.

What is a Freelancer

A freelancer is a self-employed individual who provides services to clients on a project-by-project basis rather than being employed by a single employer on a long-term basis. Freelancers work in various industries and can offer writing, editing, graphic design, web development, consulting, and more. Freelancers are typically highly skilled and specialized in their areas of expertise.

What is a Contingent Worker

A contingent worker is a temporary or part-time worker who is not a full-time employee of an organization. Contingent workers include freelancers, independent contractors, temporary employees, seasonal workers, and consultants. They are hired for a specific period or project to fill an organization’s short-term needs.

What are the Similarities

These terms are often interchangeable, so it’s common to see similarities between the classifications. Gig, freelance, and contingent workers are all brought on from an outside source to assist a company in achieving its goals. In many cases, these workers will perform their duties independently, and success will be based on results rather than specifics.

What are the Differences

However, there are differences. Contingent workers brought on from a staffing agency will be the agency’s employees and paid by them as the employer of record. They are not independent contractors. Gig and freelancers work independently, are paid more like vendors than staff, and are responsible for self-employment taxes. They are not usually subject to workplace requirements, and employers can’t specify when and where they work. As long as they meet the objectives, they are successful.

Learn More About Hiring Non-traditional Workers

About Anserteam Workforce Solutions

Anserteam Workforce Solutions represents North America’s very best staffing agencies aligned together to deliver world-class workforce management solutions. We offer end-to-end talent services that can be customized for any size business, utilizing our Managed Services Provider (MSP) model and Vendor Management Solutions (VMS) technology. Is your organization seeking a WBENC-certified diversity partner to provide measurable results and substantial cost savings?  Contact us today.