Following the impact of COVID-19 in 2020, hiring managers across the Middle East are increasingly embracing freelance talent. While permanent employment remains crucial, businesses in the region increasingly value the expertise and flexibility of highly skilled freelancers. This trend indicates a shift towards a more decentralized and flexible labor market approach.

Turning to freelancers can indeed bridge skills gaps in areas where local expertise may be lacking. Enterprises benefit by gaining rapid access to specialized skills, achieving cost efficiencies through flexible hiring, fostering innovation with fresh perspectives, and scouting talent for potential permanent roles. This approach addresses immediate needs and supports long-term strategic workforce planning.

Freelancers benefit significantly from collaborating with enterprises, gaining career flexibility, expanding their skill sets, and networking within diverse communities.

However, businesses frequently encounter challenges when integrating freelance talent, particularly as they transition to more flexible staffing models to meet increasing client demands and fill specific skill gaps.

“To effectively utilize on-demand talent in the Middle East, enterprises should implement best practices that guarantee a favorable onboarding experience for freelancers. This approach can lead to increased engagement, enhanced productivity, and greater success in projects,” says Azeem Zainulbhai, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer at Outsized.

Here are some crucial aspects Zainulbhai recommends businesses consider when onboarding freelancers.

IMPLEMENTATION

Working on a tailored onboarding process is crucial for freelance professionals. 

“They need to quickly understand their roles without being bogged down by extensive company histories or conventional resources. Preparatory work should be done before or during selection to prevent project delays. Emphasize concise, relevant information about their roles, required tools, and company culture,” explains Zainulbhai. 

This approach ensures that agile talent can be onboard quickly and effectively, allowing them to start contributing immediately.

Similarly, creating an appealing Freelancer Value Proposition (FVP) is essential for attracting and retaining top talent. This should offer regular engagement, fair pay, and a supportive, inclusive work environment. Building a community and integrating freelancers into the corporate culture can also boost loyalty and improve work quality.

ENSURING COMPLIANCE

Especially concerning visa requirements and work permits, it’s crucial to verify the legal status of on-demand professionals to prevent potential legal issues and fines. Ensuring all professionals possess the necessary visas and work permits before commencing work, along with seeking guidance from legal and immigration experts familiar with local regulations, can facilitate navigating these requirements effectively.

Zainulbhai emphasizes that proactive measures not only ensure compliance but also build trust with the talent, reassuring them that their legal status is being handled appropriately.

“Navigating local labor laws and regulations can be challenging for firms. It is recommended to consult with local legal experts to ensure compliance with employment laws. This approach not only keeps the firm legally protected but also optimizes operations within the local regulatory frameworks,” he adds.

FACILITATE PLANNING

Zainulbhai suggests that before finalizing contracts, it’s crucial to establish all access permissions and processes, including IT access, building access, and HR policies. Creating a comprehensive checklist outlining necessary steps and identifying key contacts in each department can prevent delays and maximize the new hire’s potential from day one. Investing in effective collaboration tools like Slack, Trello, and Google Drive is essential for seamless communication and productivity.

This proactive approach ensures freelancers can start their work without unnecessary hurdles.

MENTORSHIP AND SUPPORT

Implementing a mentorship system, such as assigning a buddy, gives on-demand talent a go-to person for questions and support.

Zainulbhai adds that regular check-ins with a manager and opportunities for professional development also contribute significantly. Offering mentorship and support boosts productivity and fosters goodwill among freelancers, making them feel valued and integrated into the team.

DEFINING CLEAR KPIS

Establishing defined roles, responsibilities, and expectations is essential for project success.

Without clear KPIs, projects can suffer from miscommunication and lack of accountability. Define and communicate clear KPIs from the start and regularly review progress to ensure alignment with project goals. Managing misunderstandings is also crucial, as they often stem from unclear communications about project roles and goals.

“To prevent this, it’s crucial to clearly define project scopes, set specific deliverables, and establish expected standards and deadlines from the outset. Holding regular meetings and providing updates can also help maintain alignment and ensure everyone is informed throughout the project duration,” says Zainulbhai. 

This approach enhances performance and clearly explains to freelancers their contributions to the project’s success.

FOSTERING TEAM COLLABORATION

According to Zainulbhai, onboarding should involve collaboration among all necessary stakeholders and clear communication channels. This includes establishing clear communication from the beginning and keeping all relevant parties in the loop. Creating an internal onboarding team with members responsible for specific steps in the process helps streamline the process.

“Adopting an updated onboarding strategy for freelancers is crucial for businesses in the Middle East to effectively navigate market fluctuations and capitalize on emerging opportunities. This contemporary approach boosts operational efficiency and promotes innovation.”

“It also facilitates knowledge transfer and ensures the effective execution of competitive strategies. By enhancing adaptability, this strategy benefits employers and freelancers, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem that propels business success,” says Zainulbhai.