AI is steadily permeating all aspects of enterprise operations. Workers are already using the technology, mainly in the form of generative AI, to increase productivity and improve output. More comprehensively, companies across industries are reengineering processes to incorporate AI. For example: Banks are transforming financial advisory services Insurance companies are automating auto and home claims estimates Plant maintenance is being reshaped through AI in industrial enterprises In some countries, AI-based telemedicine assists diagnosis and treatment Such transformations demand the creat ..read more

Managing independent contractors can be a tricky zone to navigate. You have to find a balance between giving them the support and feedback you need while maintaining a client-contractor relationship for compliance purposes. Unless it is specified in a contract, independent contractors have the right to choose when, where, and how they work. Over-supervising or treating an independent contractor like an employee can be grounds for a worker misclassification lawsuit. On the other hand, independents value good communication, regular feedback, and guidance when onboarding to a new company. Gen AI ..read more

Enterprises recognize that including independent professionals in the workforce is imperative. As demand for their services increases, independents have more project options and more choice of clients. How can a company ensure that it is attractive to high-value independent talent?  I went to an expert for answers to this question. Emily Stringer is a Program Manager on our Marketing & Communications team and she’s worn many hats over her 13+ years at MBO. In a previous role she helped manage the advisory side of our practice, assisting independents and prospective independents learn ..read more

“Adopting AI” is a big deal, not only in terms of the business imperative but also in terms of what it takes for an enterprise to do it. Like previous big technology changes, AI adoption must be planned, trained, tested, secured, and maintained. This takes time and expertise, and for many companies, the race is on to put robust and safe AI tools in place. While the big adoption effort is underway, there are ways that enterprises can “leverage AI.” We are using that term to mean tools that can be implemented today (i.e., this year). Leveraging AI, by our definition, does not require the intense ..read more

Because there is risk associated with hiring independent contractors, preparation is key. Often, misclassification can be unintentional because businesses simply do not have a full understanding of the laws regarding how to classify their workers. However, it can also be done intentionally to reduce labor costs or avoid payroll taxes. Regardless of why misclassification occurs, it can result in many negative consequences like legal battles and costly fines that can be detrimental to businesses.  Creating an Effective Contractor Management Program There are many factors to consider an ..read more

Workforce optimization—establishing a strategic mix of employees and contractors—will likely be redefined in the next few years. With AI coming on the scene in a big way, speculations swirl in the business community about how it will change the way work is done. Will it cause jobs to be lost as it takes on roles currently filled by people? Will it make some roles completely obsolete? Our State of Independence (SOI) research indicates that workers are not thinking in these terms. Only 8% of independent professionals considered their work at risk of being replaced by AI in the next five years, w ..read more

Being a Client of Choice is critical for any enterprise competing for independent professionals with in-demand skills. Our research shows an annual increase in the percentage of independents saying they are able to choose the clients with whom they work. This choice goes beyond money into areas like ease of engagement, the quality of working relationships, and available learning opportunities. It can also be influenced by the types of wellness benefits a client offers them. 8 Ways to Support Your Independent Contractors’ Wellness Offering wellness benefits to independent contractors can be a d ..read more

Unsurprisingly, companies are increasingly recognizing the need for agility and flexibility within their workforce. Recent layoffs among traditional W2 employees have prompted a reevaluation of conventional employment models. As organizations navigate economic uncertainties and rapid technological advancements, the spotlight increasingly turns towards the strategic integration of independent contractors & a contingent workforce. This shift not only addresses immediate cost concerns but also unlocks massive benefits that empower businesses to thrive in an era defined by change.   From ..read more

Building strong relationships with independent talent will be important for businesses in the coming year as more enterprises seek to use independents as part of their staffing strategy. Top independent talent—who have the skills companies seek—have the luxury of picking the clients they work with. Those who purposely find ways to prioritize contractor satisfaction and develop good relationships will be much more attractive places for independents to work. Here are five ways your company can build stronger contractor relationships in 2024. 1. Create a Welcoming Environment Independent contract ..read more

Workforce optimization—establishing a strategic mix of employees and contractors—will likely be redefined in the next few years. With AI coming on the scene in a big way, speculations swirl in the business community about how it will change the way work is done. Will it cause jobs to be lost as it takes on roles currently filled by people? Will it make some roles completely obsolete? Our State of Independence (SOI) research indicates that workers are not thinking in these terms. Only 8% of independent professionals considered their work at risk of being replaced by AI in the next five years, w ..read more