At the Global HR Executive’s People 1st event in London, leaders from Worksome and Oliver came together for an insightful panel discussion about the growing importance of freelance talent in driving organizational success. Sam Orrin and Mathias Linnemann from Worksome joined Christina Hermann, Chief People Officer at Oliver, to delve into how Oliver has built a resilient freelance strategy that enhances agility, innovation, and competitiveness in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Navigating the Skills Economy with Freelance Talent
In a world where access to specialized skills is critical, Oliver has embraced freelance, contract, and gig workers as a core component of their talent strategy. Christina Hermann shared how this approach has allowed Oliver to adapt to changing client needs, reduce pressure on in-house teams, and maintain a high standard of service delivery. Freelance talent isn’t just a stopgap; it’s a strategic enabler for innovation and efficiency.
Reducing Stress and Enhancing Client Service
By leveraging independent talent, Oliver has found a way to manage fluctuatingworkloads without overburdening their full-time teams. This strategy not only minimizes team burnout but also ensures that clients receive the focused attention and creative solutions they expect. “Freelancers bring fresh perspectives and specialized skills that help us stay ahead of the curve,” Hermann explained during the discussion.
The Role of Technology in Freelance Management
A key theme of the panel was the role of technology in managing external talent. Tools like Worksome simplify the complexities of working with freelancers, from sourcing and onboarding to compliance and payment. Hermann highlighted how these technological advancements have made it easier for organizations like Oliver to build and maintain a thriving freelance workforce.
Staying Agile in a Competitive Market
The panel concluded with a discussion on how adopting a flexible workforce model allows organizations to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving skills economy. Agility, Hermann emphasized, isn’t just about responding to immediate needs—it’s about building a sustainable framework that supports long-term growth and innovation.
Key Takeaways
This session at People 1st underscored the critical role freelance strategies play in modern organizations. With the right approach and technology, businesses can unlock the full potential of external talent to reduce stress, enhance client service, and stay ahead in today’s competitive landscape.
If you missed the live panel, be sure to watch the full replay to gain more insights into how Oliver is leading the way with their freelance strategy and how your organization can do the same.