Traditionally, companies have utilized contractors to plug staffing shortfalls. However, skilled engineering contractors can be leveraged to help a firm achieve its strategic goals. Here are some of the ways that contractors can add real value to your team.
Cost Control
Contractors are typically paid at a higher rate than permanent employees, but don’t let the price tag fool you. Yes, they earn more per hour, but the company is not responsible for paying their benefits, granting paid leave or bonuses. Contractors can also be paid out of a project budget rather than the firm’s salary budget, which keeps overall workforce costs in line.
Cost control is especially visible during periods of high demand. It costs much less to hire skilled contractors to work on a specific project for a set period of time than it does to add to your permanent headcount. When the project is over, the contractors move on, leaving your budget intact.
Access to Skills
Professional engineering contractors make a career out of being an expert in a specific area. If a project is on the horizon that requires specialized skills that are lacking on your permanent staff, contractors can augment your total skills set for the duration of the project. When the project is complete, and that skill set is no longer a priority, you and the contractor part ways amicably. Hiring a permanent subject matter expert who is only needed a few times a year makes little sense when you can access SMEs on-demand, as you need them.
Focus, Motivation and Objectivity
Permanent staff, no matter how talented they are, are beholden to the politics of your organization. Contractors know they have a set period to achieve the goals set forth for them, and their ability to continue booking projects depends on the results they generate. While there are certainly exceptions to the rule, many contractors are extremely focused on results and goals and don’t get tied up in office gossip, politics or drama.
Not only does that focus help move a project along, it can also have a positive impact on your permanent staff. Injecting a bit of “new blood” into the group can get your team’s competitive juices flowing. Formerly complacent team members may feel newly motivated to outperform expectations in an effort to compete with contractors.
Are You Ready to See How Contractors Can Add Value?
If you are looking for skilled engineers to help with your projects, but you aren’t sure how to properly leverage contractors for success, Selectek can help. Contact us today to learn more about our track record and discover how we can help you achieve your strategic goals.
