For many organizations, working with freelancers is the way to respond to peaks, changing projects, or a shortage of permanent staff. But that success doesn't come automatically.
At Circle8 we work daily with both clients and self-employed professionals. We see where things go well and where things can go wrong. That's why in this blog we share the most important do’s & don’ts for a successful collaboration with freelancers.
Why choose a freelancer?
For anyone still in doubt: these are the advantages of working with self-employed people:
Quickly deployable
High level of expertise in their niche
Flexibly deployable per project, on-site or remote
No long-term wage costs or employment relationships
But with that flexibility comes a different dynamic than with permanent employees. And as a client you must be prepared for that.
The do’s: how to work successfully with freelancers
1. Provide a clear task description
A good collaboration starts with a good start. Describe beforehand as concretely as possible:
The scope of the assignment
Expected results and deadlines
Duration of the collaboration
Desired availability and location
The clearer you are, the better the freelancer can assess whether the assignment suits him/her. And the greater the chance of a flying start.
2. Treat a freelancer as a full-fledged professional
Freelancers are not employees, nor are they 'temporary workers'. They are entrepreneurs and want to be approached as such. Give them room for input, let them contribute ideas, and show trust in their expertise.
This not only increases engagement, but often also leads to better results.
3. Ensure a smooth onboarding
Self-employed contractors may be independent, but they do need a proper onboarding into your organization. Therefore provide:
Access to systems and workstations from the first day
A contact person or point of contact
Information about the team, the way of working and the culture
A one-hour onboarding is often already enough to prevent weeks of noise and miscommunication.
4. Make clear agreements (and record them)
Avoid hassle by recording clear terms in an agreement or order confirmation. Consider:
Rate and payment term
Travel expenses and other reimbursements
Ownership of output or intellectual property
Confidentiality agreements (if necessary)
At Circle8 we ensure that all administrative matters are properly arranged, so that you can collaborate without worry.
5. Evaluate regularly, even while the assignment is still ongoing.
A common mistake: reflecting only after the collaboration has ended. Preferably schedule short evaluation moments during the assignment. Discuss what is going well, what can be improved, and whether the expectations are still aligned.
This way you avoid surprises and strengthen the relationship for future assignments.
The don’ts: avoid these common mistakes
1. Treating a freelancer as an employee
As soon as you put self‑employed contractors on a fixed roster, impose obligations on them, or have them work under direction and supervision, you are treading on legally thin ice. This can lead to false self‑employment, resulting in tax and reputational risks.
When in doubt: ask for advice. Circle8 carefully guides clients in this.
2. Unclear communication about expectations or feedback
Saying “we'll see” invites uncertainty. Self-employed people also want to know where they stand. Give timely feedback and keep lines of communication short. That way you keep the collaboration professional and effective.
3. Only bet on the rate
A price that is too low may seem attractive, but often results in a mismatch. Focus on value and quality, not only on costs.
A good match is worth its weight in gold and saves you far more in the long run than you think.
Working with freelancers requires clarity and partnership.
Independent professionals offer speed, knowledge and flexibility. But to truly make an impact, the collaboration also requires something from you as the client. With clear agreements, good communication, and respect for their entrepreneurship, you lay the foundation for long-term success.
Circle8 helps clients to make successful matches and supports them with the right legal and strategic cooperation with freelancers. This is how you get the most out of flexible talent. Become part of Circle8 and get the right freelancers for your assignments? Contact us: https://www.circle8.nl/opdrachtgevers
