Do you know what’s often overlooked but very important? Recognizing the incredible work done by freelancers and contractors.
These professionals are key players in today’s workforce, contributing significantly to various industries, and they deserve to be recognized for their contributions.
In this article, we’ll explore how you can do a better job of recognizing freelancers and contractors who work hard for your company.
Let’s get into it!
The Rise of Freelancers and Contractors
First off, let’s acknowledge how the work landscape has changed. Gone are the days when the traditional 9-to-5 office job was the only way to earn a living.
Today, freelancers and contractors make up a significant part of the workforce, and their numbers are growing.
In the US alone, freelancers contributed $1.35 trillion to the economy in annual earnings in 2022, an increase of $50 billion from 2021. Whether it’s writing, graphic design, coding, consulting, or any other skill, these professionals are everywhere, contributing to various industries in meaningful ways.
But here’s the kicker – despite their significant contributions, freelancers and contractors often don’t get the same level of recognition as their full-time counterparts.
And that needs to change.
Why Employee Recognition and Rewards Matter
When you’re working from home, a café, or a co-working space, it’s easy to feel isolated. That’s where positive feedback and acknowledgement can make a huge difference.
For freelancers, who may not have the daily friendly vibes of an office environment, a simple “Great job!” can go a long way.
The best part? Recognition can also lead to better work! When freelancers and contractors feel appreciated, they’re more likely to go above and beyond in their tasks. It’s a win-win situation – clients get top-notch work, and freelancers feel valued.
Adding rewards and incentives into the mix can amplify this effect. Offering bonuses, gift cards (especially global gift cards, which can be sent to any location in the world), or even small tokens of appreciation can motivate freelancers to stay committed and produce high-quality work.
According to studies, companies with high employee engagement often:
Outperform their competition
Retain top talent
Attract top talent
Bounce back quickly from setbacks
Make better decisions
If you need more data about the impact of recognition on employee engagement, check out our article about the psychology of recognition.
6 Ways to Recognise Freelancers and Contractors
So, how can you do a better job of recognizing freelancers and contractors who work hard for your company?
Here are six ideas for you:
1. Clear Onboarding and Effective Communication
Before you do anything, you need to make sure that you have a good onboarding process planned – because freelancers and contractors need a good onboarding process, too!
Help them understand your company culture, values, and their role. This makes them feel like part of the team and helps them get started quickly.
Also, freelancers often work remotely, so regular office communication might not work. Use digital tools like project management apps and instant messaging to keep them informed and connected. Regular check-ins can help them feel included and improve collaboration.
2. Personalized Thank-You Notes
Simple yet effective, a personalized thank-you note can be incredibly meaningful and show that you’ve noticed their hard work and appreciate their contributions.
Whether it’s a handwritten note or an email, taking the time to say thanks can make a freelancer’s day!
3. Public Acknowledgement
If you’re a business owner or manager, publicly acknowledging freelancers in team meetings or company newsletters can make a big impact.
It not only boosts their morale but also sets a positive example for the rest of the team!
4. Timely Payments
Ensuring that freelancers and contractors are paid promptly and fairly is a form of recognition in itself. It shows respect for their time and effort, too!
5. Testimonials and Reviews
Positive testimonials and reviews can help freelancers attract more clients.
If you’re happy with their work, don’t hesitate to leave a glowing review or provide a testimonial they can use on their website or LinkedIn profile.
6. Reviews and Rewards
Regular check-ins and feedback sessions can be really helpful. They show freelancers where they can improve and recognize their great work. This way, freelancers understand their impact on the company and feel appreciated.
Adding rewards like bonuses or gift cards can further motivate them and show how much you value their contributions.
About GoGift
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For more detailed information about GoGift, please visit their official website: https://www.global.gogift.com/