Remote working for contingent workers: Navigating the new normal

Remote work and contingent workers are both here to stay

For some professionals, remote work has transformed from a niche arrangement to a typical work model. There are countless articles and blogs regarding remote work, its pros and cons, and great habits to implement. But there has not been much chatter on how this affects temporary staff and contingent workers.

As businesses increasingly rely on contingent talent—such as freelancers, consultants, and temporary workers—understanding the nuances of remote work for different professionals is crucial. It’s also important to understand which industries can feasibly support a remote workforce.

Remote work occurrence by industry

While remote work has been trending since the pandemic in 2019, not all industries are suited to this kind of working arrangement with their employees. For instance, the finance and transportation industries must operate with necessary compliance and oversight that complicates the potential of remote work.¹ In the case of transportation, it makes sense that a train operator, bus driver, or toll booth attendant couldn’t work remotely. Similarly, there’s little opportunity for remote work in sectors with high physical demands, like agriculture and mining. ²

This explains why the industrial and manufacturing sector struggles with implementing remote work. There is heavy reliance on physical labor and machinery operation, and this is despite recent advancements in remote monitoring technologies.

The healthcare industry also faces limitations implementing remote working for contingent workers because of the necessity of physical presence for patient care. Although, it’s worth noting that telemedicine is expanding remote opportunities for consultations and addressing minor medical issues.

On the other hand, most clerical work is well-suited for remote work environments. Instances of remote work are highest in sectors with a significant amount of desk or office work.³ With digital platforms enabling seamless communication and collaboration, having a physical location for employees to work in has become less critical. Professionals in accounting, engineering, IT consulting, and marketing can work from home (or another remote location) without sacrificing productivity.

The pros and cons of remote working for contingent workers

Temporary staffing needs often arise due to increased workloads, an overstretched current team, a need for added expertise, or the onset of specific projects. Although the benefits of remote work may not differ significantly from those experienced by full-time staff, it's crucial to understand how to leverage them effectively to maximize your business's potential.

Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons:

Pros of remote working for contingent workers

• Flexibility and autonomy: Contingent workers often thrive in remote settings due to the flexibility it offers. They can choose when and where they work, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and better work-life balance. This autonomy allows them to tailor their work environment to suit their productivity needs and the teams that they support.
• Access to a broader talent pool: For businesses, remote work enables access to a wider talent pool. Organizations can hire the best talent, regardless of geographical constraints, leading to more diverse and innovative teams.
• Cost savings: Both contingent workers and companies can save on costs with remote work. Workers save on commuting, meals, and work attire, while businesses can reduce overhead costs associated with office space, supplies, and other operational expenses.
• Increased productivity: Many contingent workers report higher productivity levels when working remotely. The elimination of office distractions and the ability to work during peak productivity times contributes to this increase.

Cons of remote working for contingent workers

• Isolation and lack of community: One of the major drawbacks of remote work is the feeling of isolation. Contingent workers, who may not have a permanent team, can feel disconnected from the company culture and miss out on the camaraderie found in traditional office settings.
• Communication barriers: Effective communication can be challenging in a remote work setting. Contingent workers might struggle with staying informed or may experience delays in communication, which can affect their ability to collaborate effectively.
• Boundary management: The blurring of lines between work and personal life is a common issue. Contingent workers need to establish clear boundaries to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Access to resources: Unlike full-time employees, contingent workers might not have the same level of access to company resources, tools, or support systems, which can impact their effectiveness.

Remote working for contingent workers

Remote work offers significant advantages for contingent workers, from increased flexibility to access to a broader range of opportunities. However, it also presents unique challenges that need to be addressed. By understanding these dynamics, businesses can better support their contingent workforce, ensuring both parties reap the benefits of this evolving work model. As the contingent workforce continues to grow, embracing remote work with a strategic approach will be key to future success.

To learn more about how CAI can help your organization with a contingent workforce, fill out the form below.