Temporary and contract workers seem to be more prevalent than ever, filling roles both short and long-term. The category of contingent workers includes consultants, agency workers, outsourced workers and other freelancers. There are more of these self-employed free agents in the marketplace than ever, and studies have shown that the use of contingent workers will only grow in the years to come.
There are many benefits to hiring contingent workers, including the ability to “try them out” with less risk than hiring a full-fledged employee. In some cases, it just makes more sense to hire a temporary or freelance worker to fill a role that will be brief or project-focused. However, just because a worker’s time at the workplace will be limited doesn’t mean that they shouldn’t be thoroughly screened.
Here are four reasons that all contingent workers should be screened in the same manner full-time employees are:
1. Negligent Hiring Liabilities
Whether a worker is an employee or a freelancer, if they are on the premises and cause harm in the workplace, the employer may still be held liable for negligent hiring. This risk of legal action and financial impact should compel businesses to screen all workers, no matter how seemingly minor their role.
2. Optimizing the Talent Pool
No matter what role a worker plays, they are part of the team that comprises the company at that time. Small businesses need and deserve every advantage possible, and employment background checks can help to ensure the best quality workers in all areas.
3. Even Agency Workers May Not Be Fully Screened
When a business hires a worker from a temp agency or firm, they often assume that they are thoroughly vetted and screened. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. An employer should never assume that a consultant or temp worker is trustworthy and they should verify that a background check has been performed.
4. Peace of Mind
Business owners have enough to worry about. Knowing that each and every worker has been thoroughly vetted and screened can help them to rest easier both at the office and when they are enjoying their time off.
Contingent workers – freelancers, consultants, independent contractors and temporary workers – are a bigger part of the workplace than ever before. For continued success, businesses should screen all workers, including the contingent sector.
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