Why companies should treat freelancers as equals to employees

As the IT industry continues to grow and change, the lines between full-time employees and freelancers are blurring. Many freelancers bring the same level of expertise, dedication, and reliability as their full-time counterparts, yet often they don’t receive the same benefits. The question arises: shouldn’t companies treat them with the same respect and consideration as their in-house employees? In this post, we’ll explore why companies should give equal opportunities and how embracing this mindset can be beneficial for both sides.

Let’s recognize the value

Freelancers are often seen as “outsiders” compared to employees. But the truth is that freelancers contribute significantly to the success of many companies. They often bringing in specialized skills and fresh perspectives. They typically work on high-impact projects, helping to fill gaps and provide expertise that might not exist in-house.

In a recent interview, the founder of Sprint CV, Marco Pincho, discussed this topic with Paulo Martins, an IT professional with a passion for aviation, to explore his journey in the exciting world of freelancing.
“Freelancers have the flexibility to bring specialized knowledge to a company without the long-term commitment. Companies should recognize this flexibility as a major advantage. Many times, freelancers stay longer in the roles they take on compared to employees. And the cost for the company is the same — if not lower — while being less risky.”, reffers Paulo.

In fact, freelancers often outperform in-house teams when it comes to specific project deadlines and targeted tasks. They tend to be highly self-motivated and adaptable, as they need to manage multiple projects and clients simultaneously.

Equal opportunities: a win-win situation

There are many reasons why companies should level the playing field between full-time employees and freelancers. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Flexibility and scalability without the commitment: Many companies hesitate to hire employees due to the complexities of labour laws and the difficulty of ending employment contracts. Freelancers offer a more flexible relationship that can be easily adjusted based on project needs or budget cuts. By hiring freelancers, companies gain access to scalability, expertise, and the ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances without the long-term commitments and overhead of full-time employees.
2. Stability and long-term commitment: Unlike the common misconception that freelancers might leave projects midway, many see their employers as valued clients and take pride in building their own brand. Freelancers typically strive to maintain good relationships, staying on projects until completion. In fact, they often go the extra mile—putting in additional hours to ensure the quality of their work and secure contract renewals. This dedication makes them just as reliable as permanent employees, if not more!
3. Access to career development and growth: one of the major pitfalls is the lack of career growth opportunities that employees receive — promotions, raises, and professional development. If companies want to truly value their freelancers, they should provide equal opportunities for growth. Whether it’s in the form of training, mentoring, or opportunities for advancement. As Paulo points out: “When working as a freelancer, promotions don’t come with the usual HR processes. But, if a project has budget and the manager is willing, raising a freelancer’s rate or providing more opportunities is often more straightforward than with an employee.”
4. Provide equal opportunities: Companies often overlook the value of providing freelancers with training, mentoring, or even asking them to attend company events without compensation. This exclusionary approach is a mistake. Just because freelancers aren’t ‘employees’ doesn’t mean they aren’t part of the team. Freelancers work side by side with employees. Recognizing their contributions and offering the same opportunities, fosters a stronger and more collaborative work environment.
5. Promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce: By offering equal opportunities, companies can encourage a more diverse workforce. Freelancers often bring unique perspectives, experiences, and expertise that may not exist within the core team. In fact, Paulo notes that they tend to bring fresh ideas and creative solutions, especially in industries like IT and tech, where innovation is essential.

The future: freelancers and employees working hand-in-hand

The distinction between freelancers and employees is increasingly irrelevant in today’s workforce. Companies are adapting to remote work and global talent pools. Giving freelancers the same opportunities as employees will not only lead to better results. It will also foster a more inclusive, flexible, and dynamic work culture.

At the end of the day, despite the status, the contribution to the company should be valued equally. It’s time to break down outdated perceptions. It’s time to create a workplace where everyone has the same opportunities, regardless of their contract type. Freelancers and employees alike should be given equal opportunities to grow, develop, and contribute to the success of the company. By embracing freelancers and recognizing their potential, companies can create a more effective, innovative, and diverse workforce that thrives in today’s evolving job market. Read the full interview to Paulo Martins here: