The On Demand Principle
Very, very few people employ a full-time car mechanic or washing machine engineer. We call upon these professionals’ skills only when we need them. Similarly in your business there are highs and lows of workload for Owners, Directors and Senior Managers .Contractors of any kind provide additional resource only at the times when it is needed.
My order taking, supply chain and distribution working smoothly, but I have no time to drive efforts to find new customers?
Our sales are growing but the stock figures are increasing?
Sales are flat or declining and not sure why
Team performance patchy but no time to address it
Above are just a few examples of the many issues that can face businesses of any size. Some require a one time fix, others a review of procedures, and some might, after analysis, prompt a change in strategy, or review of the business model.
All too often we are drawn into working in the business and not on it. Adding to the workforce can be risky if the perceived need has not been accurately defined. At this point a spare (and safe!) pair of hands to help out would be great.
The use of interim managers and day rate contractors can be the ideal solution for fixed term work, specific projects or experimental or speculative jobs. It is widely recognised that this kind of employee offers high levels of commitment but with savings on the costs associated with permanent employment.
The risks associated with short term employees are similar to those for permanent staff, and need to be managed at the recruitment/selection stage in the same way.
A carefully selected contractor can provide a fresh perspective, additional drive and clear focus.