The Independent Workforce

“Freelancers are not less committed. They’re often more committed, because they’re only as good as their last project. If you want great work, treat them like partners, not placeholders.”In this episode, we discussed how the freelance market evolved from crisis-driven necessity to a strategic talent model, and what both companies and freelancers must do to truly make it work, in particular:👉 The shift from “freelancers as backup” to “freelancers as strategic advantage”.👉 Why experienced freelancers “hit the ground running” faster than full-time hires.👉 What both sides must do to create long-term, win-win collaboration.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Úna Herlihy, the Founder and Chief Matchmaker at The Indie List, Ireland's No.1 Place for Marketing Freelancers, where she connects companies with top freelance creative and marketing talent, who, with over 30 years of experience across leading agencies and as a marketing consultant, has built her career around main thing—creating the conditions for high-performing teams to deliver real business outcomes.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Úna and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/%C3%BAna-herlihy-698b606/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Una Herlihy(01:12) Accidental Startup Story(04:24) From LinkedIn List to Launch(09:22) What the Indie List Is(11:10) How Precision Matchmaking Works(16:45) Client Briefing and Curation(22:01) Client Types and Strategic Shift(28:17) Overcoming Hiring Barriers(31:31) Compliance Invoicing and Payments(35:09) Onboarding Freelancers Like Team(37:07) Advice for Both Sides(40:58) Skills Development for Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“You’re not paying for hours. You’re paying for 20 years of experience that can change your company in weeks.”In this episode, we discussed how companies can rethink rewards, onboarding, and collaboration to unlock the full value of freelancers without burning out internal teams, in particular:👉 The biggest misconception companies have about freelance costs.👉 How to think about rewards beyond hourly or daily rates.👉 Why mindset matters more than process when working with freelancers.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Anna Orzechowska, a total rewards strategist and freelance transformation consultant with over 20 years of experience helping global organizations rethink how they reward, engage, and support their people, who from leading compensation and benefits strategies across international companies to driving complex transformation and HR projects, brings a unique perspective as both a freelancer and a trusted advisor to organizations navigating change.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Anna and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-orzechowska-52b6b548/?locale=en_UShttps://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Anna Orzechowska(01:20) What Total Rewards Means(04:42) Employees Versus Freelancers(07:48) Retention Beyond Money(10:34) Blended Workforce With AI(15:58) True Cost Of Freelancers(19:06) Agency Markups And Fair Rates(21:27) Working Direct With Corporates(25:21) Better Agency Models(27:10) Hiring Blockers Explained(29:52) Cross Functional Hiring Teams(31:24) Freelancers First Option(35:08) Rethinking Rewards(39:49) Mindset Over Money(41:12) Bonus And Compliance Tips(44:11) Advice For Both Sides(47:20) Biggest Future Fear#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Big consultancies feel safe, but often you’re just paying for a polished version of the same thinking.”In this episode, we discussed how the flexible workforce is reshaping modern business and how shifting from a “vendor mindset” to a “partner mindset” unlocks speed, expertise, and real competitive advantage, in particular:👉 The real difference between freelancers, contractors, and fractional leaders.👉 How freelancers bring “external intelligence” into your business.👉 The truth about agencies vs. freelance teams.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Jamie Read, a founder of BriteBirch Collective, a global consultancy built on the power of freelance talent, a fractional CMO with 20 years of experience helping brands grow through flexible, high-impact marketing leadership, and a true champion of the future of work helping companies scale with curated freelance talent while empowering independent professionals to build sustainable businesses.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Jamie and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamjamieread/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Jamie Read(01:09) Fractional vs Freelance(02:25) Flexible Workforce Terms(05:02) Freelancer Skill Ladder(07:50) Where To Find Talent(09:26) Business Sizes And Barriers(14:47) Freelancers As Superpowers(15:46) Procurement Versus HR(19:21) Why Big Firms Feel Safer(24:20) Layoffs To Freelance(26:31) Contracts And Cybersecurity(29:32) Freelancing Risks(32:46) Building Reliable Teams(36:00) Three Step Hiring System(38:18) Advice For Both Sides#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Freelancers aren’t a risk to your business. The real risk is not knowing how to work with them. The companies that figure this out early will win access to the best talent in the world.”In this episode, we discussed how companies and freelancers can successfully collaborate in a rapidly evolving, compliance-driven, outcome-focused future of work, in particular:👉 Why top talent is choosing independence over full-time roles.👉 How compliance becomes a strategic advantage, not just a legal necessity.👉 The hidden risks of misclassifying freelancers (and how to avoid them).Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Jeff Nugent, a global contingent workforce strategist, managing editor at Contingent Workforce Strategies, Linkedin's Largest Community of HR, procurement and contingent workforce professionals, one of the leading voices in independent contractor compliance and the founder of Independently.ai, the world’s first Compliance-as-a-Service platform for independent talent, who has spent decades helping enterprises manage billions of dollars in contract, freelance, and temporary workforce spend while turning compliance and risk into strategic advantage.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Jeff and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffnugent/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Jeff Nugent(02:13) Y2K and enterprise scaling(03:20) Internet era and compliance focus(05:13) Future of work and AI(08:50) Shift from hours to outcomes(10:11) Company blockers control and compliance(15:44) Misclassification and contractor tests(21:30) How to work productively together(24:23) Who owns onboarding inside companies(28:49) Three-step freelancer system(31:30) Advice for companies and freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“If you don’t invest in how freelancers experience your company, you’re not just losing talent. You’re losing time, money, and future opportunities you don’t even see.”In this episode, we discussed how companies and freelancers can work better together by shifting from “plug-and-play hiring” to building trusted, human-centered, long-term collaboration systems, in particular:👉 How building a trusted freelance network reduces costs and increases quality.👉 Why freelancer experience directly impacts productivity and creativity.👉 Simple steps companies can take today to become “freelance-friendly”.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Matthew Knight, an independent strategist who has worked with brands like LEGO, Klarna, Accenture, and Adidas, the founder of Leapers, an award-winning initiative supporting the mental health of freelancers, a Chief Freelance Officer at The Independency Co., helping companies and independent professionals collaborate better together, and someone who has spent years standing in the space between freelancers and the organizations that hire them, exactly where the future of work is being shaped.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Matthew and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thinkplaymake/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Matthew Knight(01:30) What is Chief Freelance Officer(03:40) Building trusted networks(06:01) Market maturity shifts(09:38) Hybrid teams and AI(13:04) Mindset and misalignments(16:07) Process onboarding pitfalls(17:47) Freelance friendly framework(21:15) ROI of supporting freelancers(23:51) Why hiring stays slow(26:20) Learn by Doing(30:03) Freelancer Value Case(32:05) Who Owns the Process(34:52) Why Process Matters(36:10) Client Behavior and Wellbeing(38:50) Advice for Companies(40:31) Advice for New Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“You don’t need more employees. You need access to the right expertise at the right moment. That’s the difference between scaling slowly and moving fast.”In this episode, we discussed how companies can unlock more value by working with freelancers, and why success depends more on mindset, trust, and clarity than cost, in particular:👉 Why hiring freelancers is shifting from “cost-saving” to “value creation”.👉 The #1 mistake companies make when starting with freelancers.👉 Why the best companies buy expertise on demand, not full-time roles.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Przemek Glosny, a serial entrepreneur and the CEO of Useme, a platform that helps companies work with freelancers quickly, legally, and securely, who, with the Useme team, has helped more than 50,000 companies (including IKEA, Samsung, and HBO) collaborate with independent talent.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Przemek and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/przemekglosny/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Przemek Glosny(01:18) Origin Story of Useme(02:18) Freelancer Label Shift(04:32) Who Hires Independents(07:15) Why Freelancers Win(08:53) Company Hiring Blockers(13:57) How to Change Mindset(18:10) First Steps to Start(20:47) Expectation Misalignment(22:50) Value Based Pricing(25:55) Freelancer Frustrations(34:23) Advice for Both Sides(37:51) Future of Global Work#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“The question isn’t whether freelancers will become part of your workforce strategy. The real question is whether you’ll adapt before your competitors do.”In this episode, we discussed why talent choosing independence will reshape how organizations hire in the next 3–5 years, in particular:👉 Why more professionals are choosing freelancing instead of traditional employment.👉 The mindset shift from “owning talent” to accessing talent on demand.👉 How staffing companies must evolve to stay relevant in the freelance economy.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Ray Culver, a global strategist in the talent and contingent workforce space with over 30 years of experience in staffing, workforce strategy, and talent marketplaces starting with leadership roles at Randstad, Manpower, and Scout Exchange, to now being a founder and CEO of CWsolutions Group, helping staffing firms and HR tech companies design go-to-market strategies across the US and Europe, and also a Managing Director for the Americas at TALiNT Partners, connecting leaders across the global talent ecosystem.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Ray and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayeculver/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Ray Culver(03:05) What We Call Freelancers(06:11) What Stops Companies From Using Freelancers(07:18) How to Start a Freelance Program(08:20) Finding Internal Champions(10:07) Who Owns Contingent Workforce(12:42) How the Market Has Evolved(16:01) Staffing Firms in the Crossfire(18:45) Mindset Shift and Pilot Wins(23:55) Competitors and Local Culture(25:20) AI vs Freelance Adoption(27:22) Risks of Not Adapting(29:27) When Companies Will Shift(31:27) Why Success Stays Secret(33:17) Dream Hiring Decision Tool(36:54) Advice for Both Sides#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“The ability to bring in specialized talent quickly is what allows startups and innovative companies to scale faster than their competitors.”In this episode, we discussed how companies can scale faster and smarter by working with freelancers, and what both sides must do to make those partnerships successful, in particular:👉 What is pushing more professionals into independent work.👉 The biggest fears companies have when hiring independent experts.👉 What the ideal system for hiring freelancers should look like.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Katherine Steiner-Dicks, the founder of BuzzVestor Media, business journalist, freelancer advocate, and editorial consultant for The Freelance Informer, who's been covering private equity and venture capital for over 20 years while building her own freelance career in parallel and helping businesses hire right independent talent.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Kate and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-s-1988017/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Kate Steiner-Dicks(03:59) AI and Rising Expectations(07:31) Company Concerns Hiring Freelancers(10:21) From Vendor to Partner(12:08) Expectation Gaps and Communication(14:32) Data Security and NDAs(17:39) Internal vs External Talent(22:27) Why Flexible Talent Scales(25:29) Hiring Fast and Letting Go(26:40) Freelancers Want Projects(28:02) Recruiter Trust Issues(32:27) Relationship First Recruiting(38:48) Pay Terms And Respect(40:32) Fixing IR35 Barriers(44:51) Advice For Companies And Newbies#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“If you’re afraid to bring in outside talent, ask yourself what you’re really protecting: your strategy or your comfort? Growth rarely lives inside comfort.”In this episode, we discussed how companies can unlock transformation, agility, and performance by strategically partnering with executive-level independent talent, in particular:👉 How “executive entrepreneurs” are redefining leadership.👉 A real transformation story from a global enterprise.👉 How to build a blended workforce strategy that actually works.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Jamie Jacobs, the founder and CEO of Gig Talent, where she helps companies solve their hardest leadership and transformation challenges fast without waiting for a full-time hire, and also a trusted advisor, keynote speaker, a professor at The University of Southern California, and the host of The Courageous Choice podcast where she explores the bold decisions that shape modern leadership.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Jamie and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jlatianojacobs/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Jamie Jacobs(02:04) How HR Has Changed(03:03) What Do We Call Independent Experts(05:11) Why Gig Talent Exists(09:52) Biggest Blockers For Companies(14:07) Leading Adobe's HRBP Transformation as an Independent Leader(22:32) Why External Experts Spot Blind Spots(26:16) Building an Integrated Talent Strategy(28:50) Blended Workforce Myths(30:47) Where Freelancing Is Headed(35:06) Experience “Great” Independent Talent Firsthand(38:40) Pilots for Companies + Finding Your Superpower as a Freelancer#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

"You’re already working with freelancers. The real question is whether you’re doing it strategically or accidentally."In this episode, we discussed how enterprises can strategically integrate freelancers into their workforce led by procurement, driven by small wins, and focused on real business impact, in particular:👉 The real reason companies struggle to scale freelancer adoption.👉 Why procurement, not HR, should own external workforce strategy.👉 The cost savings potential of structured freelance programs.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Danny Gal, an experienced business leader and board director who stands right at the intersection of enterprise transformation and the rise of the independent workforce, who, as a co-founder of Proteams Europe, helps large organizations tap into Europe’s top flexible talent across IT, digital, and creative as their real business advantage.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Danny and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannygal/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Danny Gal(02:43) An enterprise external workforce strategy (and why terms matter)(04:45) Why procurement should own it(06:31) How to kick it off(08:08) Who ProTeam works with(09:34) Change management in big corporates(11:18) Finding the “neck on the line” leaders(14:04) What really motivates stakeholders(16:14) Biggest blockers(19:43) Sharing business success stories to scale adoption(22:35) Keeping Procurement in the Loop(24:34) Blended Workforce Reality Check(27:47) Why Flexibility Is Non‑Negotiable(31:10) The Simplest First Step to Build an Independent Talent System(33:50) What Happens If You Don’t Adapt(39:41) Tech to Match Work to the Right Supplier#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“If you only hire full-time employees, you’re building a workforce for yesterday’s economy.”In this episode, we discussed how enterprises really hire freelancers today, what blocks adoption internally, and why access to skills (not ownership of employees) defines the future of work, in particular:👉 Why “talent access” is replacing traditional talent acquisition.👉 Who owns freelance hiring inside corporations.👉 What companies risk if they ignore the independent workforce shift.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Tony Buffum, a transformational HR leader and Head of Enterprise Strategy at Human Cloud, who works with global enterprises, investors, and governments to design flexible workforce programs and unlock the power of independent talent.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Tony and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-buffum-hrexecutive/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Tony Buffum(01:12) The Role of Freelancers in Large Enterprises(04:03) Market Dynamics and the Shift to Independent Work(08:24) Challenges and Solutions in Hiring Freelancers(09:30) A Tug War Between Departments(14:10) Start Small and Share Success Stories(19:03) What Blocks Working With Freelancers(23:46) Benefits of Hiring Freelancers(28:41) Navigating the Freelancer Hiring Process(36:50) Building Trust in the Freelance Marketplace(40:36) Advice for Freelancers and Enterprises#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Startups don’t fail because they lack effort. They fail because they move too slow. Freelancers buy you time, and time is survival.”In this episode, we discussed how startups can use freelancers as strategic partners to move faster, hire smarter, and build scalable businesses from day one, in particular:👉 How freelancers help startups move from idea to MVP faster.👉 How freelancers can directly impact fundraising readiness.👉 The biggest mistakes startups make when working with freelancers.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Nir Melamud, Head of Partnerships and Investments at ThinkUp, Managing Partner at Tech Investor Club, Founder of FreshStart, and startup ecosystem builder with over 20 years of experience helping startups go from idea to fundable business, who works with founders on investor readiness, go-to-market, and scaling.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Nir and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nir-melamud/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Nir Melamud(00:54) Connecting Startups and Freelancers(01:18) Nir's Professional Journey (04:25) Full-time vs Freelancers in Startups(06:39) Hiring Freelancers for Startups(09:43) Freelancers' Impact on Startups(14:41) Finding and Hiring Freelancers(21:12) How To Get The Best Freelancers(26:52) Where To Find Freelancers(33:14) The Role of AI in Hiring(35:28) Final Thoughts and Advice#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“If you don’t own your flexible workforce strategy, chaos will own it for you.”In this episode, we discussed the shift from accidental freelancing to intentional workforce strategy and how to thrive in the future of work, in particular:👉 How flexible work slowly “crept in” without strategy or governance.👉 Who inside companies should really own the independent workforce.👉 Why the future of work is blended—not permanent vs freelance.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Jack Spencer, a flexible workforce specialist with over a decade of experience helping enterprises work smarter with freelance talent, the founder of Freeflexer, co-founder of Club Redundo, who's also led enterprise partnerships at YunoJuno, working with global brands across media, tech, and finance.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Jack and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackarthurgeorge/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Jack Spencer(01:17) Jack's Professional Journey(02:43) The Concept Behind Freeflex(04:32) Challenges in Managing Freelance Talent(05:53) Ownership and Governance in Freelance Management(12:51) Mindset Shifts for Embracing Independent Work(18:07) Future of Work and Adaptation(20:43) Engaging the Right Decision Makers(21:16) Persuading Businesses to Embrace Change(23:46) Finding the Right Freelancers(26:51) Building Long-Term Relationships with Freelancers(29:43) Addressing Common Barriers in Freelance Work(31:43) The Role of AI in the Freelance Market(38:09) Advice for Companies and Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Enterprises that don't adapt will find themselves running faster… in the wrong direction.”In this episode, we discussed how enterprises can overcome internal barriers and start working more effectively with independent talent, in particular:👉 How the role of the recruiter is changing in the age of AI.👉 Why enterprises are turning to blended workforce models (internal, external, and AI).👉 The hidden blockers: budgets, procurement systems, and terminology.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Rich Wilson, CEO and Co-Founder of Gigged.AI, the blended workforce platform for enterprises, who, with prior experience at Gartner and Allegis Group, is reshaping how enterprises tackle skill gaps using freelancers, internal talent, and AI, and is also passionate about mental health, AI, and the future of work.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Rich and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/richlwilson/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Rich Wilson(01:22) Rich's Journey in Recruitment(06:06) The Evolution of the Recruiter Role(08:21) Gigged AI's Focus on Enterprise Solutions(12:06) Challenges and Strategies in Enterprise Adoption(20:53) Addressing Common Concerns About Freelancing(24:50) Understanding the Freelancer Marketplace(25:30) The Importance of Terminology in Enterprise(26:15) Budget Categories and Procurement(30:23) Building the Blended Talent Platform(31:51) Challenges in Enterprise Integration(33:53) The Future of the Blended Workforce(41:30) Advice for Companies and Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“When you earn the loyalty of an elite independent, you don’t just hire one person—you gain access to their network, their insights, and their industry radar.”In this episode, we discussed how freelancing has changed across major economic/tech shifts, and what both sides must do to thrive in the future—especially in an AI-shaped world, in particular:👉 The difference between platforms, specialized agencies, and communities when sourcing talent.👉 The biggest blocker for companies hiring independents.👉 How budget clarity and decision-maker involvement can make or break a deal.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Robert Vlach, a freelancing entrepreneur, who consults top-notch professionals and business owners on shaping their business strategy and systematically supports independent professionals, a founder of two of the largest professional communities Freelancing.eu and Navolnenoze.cz, an author of The Freelance Way, an international business bestseller, and a huge ambassador of freelancers.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Robert and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertvlach/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00 Meet Robert Vlach: Freelancing Entrepreneur(01:29) Robert's Freelancing Journey(08:43) Milestones in the Freelance Economy(13:35) Current Trends and Challenges in Freelancing(28:07) Advice for Companies Hiring Freelancers(49:49) The Future of Freelancing#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Stop hiring titles and start hiring outcomes; the work doesn’t care about your org chart.”In this episode, we discussed how companies can move from title-based hiring to outcome-based work—using freelancers plus AI to move faster, learn more, and avoid becoming irrelevant, in particular:👉 Why the “job” is fading—and outcomes are becoming the real unit of work.👉 The hidden cost of traditional hiring: friction, controls, and slow trust-building.👉 Why companies that resist independent talent risk being left behind within 5 years.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and John Winsor, one of the world’s leading voices shaping the future of work, an Executive Fellow at Harvard Business School’s Digital, Design and Data Institute, the founder and chairman of Open Assembly, and the author of Open Talent, a landmark book on how companies can tap into global freelance expertise to solve their biggest challenges.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with John and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/johntwinsor/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet John Winsor(01:22) The Journey from Publishing to Co-Creation(04:05) Building a Research and Strategy Company(05:27) The Rise of Crowdsourcing and Victors & Spoils(08:55) Transition to Harvard and the Impact of AI(10:17) The Future of Work: Taskification and Freelancing(13:29) Speed Is a Strategic Advantage(18:10) Freelancers Are Learners(21:30) Who's Responsible for Making Changes(30:12) Advice for Companies and Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

"Hiring external experts isn’t a risk when you have the right partner. The real risk is delaying your projects because you’re afraid to try.”In this episode, we discussed how to navigate procurement and compliance, what clients misunderstand about independent talent, and why flexibility, speed, and partnership matter more than ever, in particular:👉 What makes the Czech freelance ecosystem unique and more complex compared to 10 years ago.👉 The real reason procurement slows down freelance hiring (and how to fix it).👉 How gender, leadership, and communication shape collaboration in a male-dominated IT space.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, Klára Hrubá a leader who’s been shaping the talent and investment landscape of Central Europe for nearly two decades, from leading commercial strategy at Hays for over 11 years, to now serving as CEO of nemensis that creates a trustworthy connection between companies and freelancers that both sides can rely on, and Kristýna Pechová, with over 13 years in HR, contracting, and leadership, the Commercial Director for Technology at nemensis, where she builds new business divisions, drives growth, and helps teams and clients thrive, who's s also a certified coach and member of Inspire & Impact, and is passionate about developing people.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Klara, Kristyna, and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/klarahrubahayscz/https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristynapechova/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Klára Hrubá and Kristýna Pechová(01:27) Klára's Journey into the Czech Market(04:15) Vision for nemensis in the Czech Market(06:05) Kristýna's Perspective on the Freelance Market(09:39) Women in Leadership in a Male-Dominated Industry(16:05) Understanding the Freelance Market in the Czech Republic(19:07) Navigating Corporate Structures to Engage Freelancers(23:33) Challenges of Relying on Full-Time Employees(25:27) The Benefits of Hiring Freelancers(28:49) Client Success Stories with Freelancers(30:12) Navigating Client Agreements and Procurement(34:31) Overcoming Barriers to Freelance Collaboration(39:29) Advice for Companies New to Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Start small, go slow, and build trust through clarity. Once your freelancers understand the ‘why,’ they won’t just complete tasks—they’ll push your whole company forward.”In this episode, we discussed how companies can build resilient, scalable, human-centered organizations by integrating freelancers, contractors, and flexible talent, in particular:👉 How Microsoft built a 900+ person freelance-powered global support ecosystem across 70+ countries.👉 Why flexible talent gives companies speed, resilience, and competitive advantage.👉 Why companies should start small, go slow, and iterate when hiring freelancers.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Nuri Demirci Lopez, a Principal Program Manager at Microsoft, AI startups founder, and author of Leading the Unknown and The Inevitable Future of Work books.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Nuri and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nuri-demirci-lopez/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Nuri Demirci Lopez(01:27) The Journey to Embracing Flexible Talent(02:34) The Impact of Freelancers on Microsoft Support(04:36) Scaling with Freelancers During Crises(06:29) The Curiosity and Drive of Freelancers(13:16) Trust and Security in Freelance Work(17:40) Freelance Platforms and Onboarding Processes(20:50) Onboarding Process and Tools(25:44) Importance of Community Building(28:30) Managing Freelancers Effectively(34:43) Final Advice for Hiring Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Don’t expect excellence if you haven’t communicated expectations. Freelancers aren’t mind-readers—they’re partners, and partners need clarity.”In this episode, we discussed the evolving freelance landscape, how high-skill experts are shifting into independent work, the practical steps companies must take to integrate them, and the common pitfalls, blockers, and mindset shifts needed to succeed, in particular:👉 The biggest blockers preventing companies from hiring top talent.👉 Where communication and expectations go wrong.👉 The hidden risks of refusing to adapt to flexible talent models.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Kaja Storbeck, a passionate recruiter at Progressive Recruiting (part of SThree), who is bridging the gap between companies that need specialized expertise and the professionals driving innovation forward, and is on a mission to bring skilled people together to build bright the future of work.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Kaja and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaja-storbeck/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Kaja Storbeck(02:10) The Evolution of the Independent Workforce(04:02) Benefits of Hiring Freelancers(05:02) Overcoming Objections to Freelancers(08:32) Steps to Hire a Freelancer(12:04) Administrative and Compliance Considerations(18:30) Client and Freelancer Collaboration(28:04) The Role of AI in Hiring Freelancers(33:57) Advice for Companies and Freelancersfreelance #hiring #futureofwork

“If upskilling your workforce feels impossible, bring the skills to them. Every freelancer you hire becomes a teacher to your entire team.”In this episode, we discussed how companies and freelancers can work together smarter through open innovation, trust, culture shifts, and examples straight from NASA’s journey into the freelance economy, in particular:👉 How NASA learned to leverage freelancers.👉 How technology is evolving so fast that traditional hiring models can’t keep up.👉 The role of curated digital communities in finding world-class talent.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Steve Rader, a true pioneer in open innovation and the future of work who spent almost 36 years at NASA and for more than a decade guided its Center of Excellence for Collaborative Innovation, helping tap into the power of open talent and crowdsourcing to solve complex problems, who now, as the founder of Crowd Resources Consulting, continues to inspire organizations around the world to leverage collective intelligence, drive innovation, and rethink how we work together in a rapidly changing world.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Steve and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/steverader/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Steve Rader(01:49) The Birth of Open Innovation at NASA(03:44) Challenges and Reframing Open Innovation(04:58) The Tsunami of Technology and Open Talent(08:34) Freelancing: The Future of Work(14:03) Trust and Integration of Freelancers(17:15) Building Relationships with Freelancers(26:42) Learning Platforms(28:05) The Role of HR and Managers(30:31) Freelancer Satisfaction and Statistics(34:12) Challenges in Freelancer Relationships(37:05) Adapting Business Models for Freelancers(44:07) Advice for Companies Hiring Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“You don’t need a perfect system to hire freelancers—just a willingness to communicate, to be fair, and to invest a small amount of time in people who can transform your business.”In this episode, we discussed enormous opportunities in building the future workforce by collaborating effectively with freelancers and agile talent, in particular:👉 How freelancers bring speed, adaptability, and expertise.👉 The biggest misalignments between company expectations and freelance realities.👉 How blending employees, freelancers, and AI will define the next decade of work.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Matthew Dowling, the Founder of Freelancer Club, a platform that’s been educating, elevating, and empowering the next generation of freelancers for over a decade, who also advocates for fair pay and freelancer rights from launching the #NoFreeWork campaign to leading initiatives like "Rise, Freelancer", with the goal to empower and support one million individuals by 2026.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Matthew and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dowlingmatthew/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Matthew Dowling(01:27) Challenges and Triumphs in Freelancing(04:54) The NoFreeWork Campaign and Advocacy Efforts(07:38) Educating Freelancers and Clients(13:05) Ethical Hiring and Workforce Blending(19:58) Freelancer Integration and Company Benefits(29:27) Advice for Companies On Hiring Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Companies that ignore independent talent won’t just miss the best, soon they won’t even get the good or the average. Flexibility is no longer a perk; it’s survival.”In this episode, we discussed why freelancers are rising, how companies can collaborate with them better, and what needs to change in mindset, policy, and practice for this model to thrive, in particular:👉 What companies risk losing when they ignore independent talent.👉 The mindset shift from job titles to value, skills, and measurable outcomes.👉 Practical advice for companies on how to build trust with freelancers.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Glen Hodgson, the founder of Free Trade Europa, a think tank championing openness, free trade, and ethical policy-making across Europe, and the Freelance Movement, a platform uniting honest companies, policymakers, and freelancers to shape a fair and thriving platform economy.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Glen and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/glen-hodgson-36136516/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Glen Hodgson(01:10) The Growing Freelance Market in Europe(03:49) Benefits for Companies Hiring Freelancers(06:08) Challenges and Solutions in Freelance Hiring(08:03) Glenn Hodgson's Personal Journey(09:26) Policy and Advocacy for Freelancers(22:58) Addressing Freelancer Concerns(32:19) Future of Freelancing with AI and Technology(35:26) Integrating Freelancers into Teams(38:42) Advice for Companies and Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Working with freelancers isn’t a risk—it’s an opportunity to access world-class talent exactly when you need it.”In this episode, we discussed how to hire top freelance consultants within 48 hours, and what it really takes to make client-freelancer collaboration work, in particular:👉 Why hiring an independent consultant is be faster and more effective than hiring full-time staff.👉 How to vet, preselect, and match the right freelancers to specific business projects.👉 The biggest blockers that slow down freelance hiring inside corporations.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and David Küpper, the founder and Managing Director of expertpowerhouse, a global platform connecting companies with top-tier consultants and experts, who, with a background in physics and a passion for people and problem-solving, spent nearly a decade at Boston Consulting Group, leading strategy projects for some of the world’s most influential organizations, and built one of the most respected networks in independent consulting by combining business excellence with human connection.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with David and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidkuepper/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet David Küpper(01:15) Understanding Expert Powerhouse's Global Reach(02:30) The Process of Connecting Freelancers with Clients(04:07) Pre-vetting Freelancers: Ensuring Quality(07:54) Consultants vs. Subject Matter Experts(15:07) Expanding the Network: Tools and Strategies(17:48) Speed and Efficiency in Freelance Hiring(20:13) Client Budget Considerations(21:19) Importance of Clear Job Descriptions(22:39) Mindset Shift for Working with Freelancers(28:22) Ensuring Smooth Freelancer Engagement(29:48) Success Stories and Challenges(33:09) Role of AI in Matching Freelancers(34:50) Future of Freelancing and Platforms(37:38) Advice for First-Time Freelance Employers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Break projects into pieces you can manage, and let freelancers bring each piece to life — you remain the architect of the big picture.”In this episode, we discussed real-life process of integrating freelancers into corporate ecosystems, managing quality, building trust, and using platforms and AI to scale collaboration, in particular:👉 How Airbus integrates freelancers and contractors into high-stakes innovation projects.👉 The key role of internal advocates in building freelance-friendly cultures.👉 Lessons from failed freelance collaborations and how to prevent them.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Mina Bastawros, a true relationship builder and inspiring leader with over 14 years of experience at Airbus, leading marketing, digital innovation, and now sales and customer satisfaction for major UK airlines, who bridges corporate vision with entrepreneurial drive.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Mina and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/minabastawros/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Mina Bastawros(01:14) Freelancers in Action: Mina's Experience at Airbus(02:17) The Journey to Embracing Freelancers(04:23) Managing Freelancers: Best Practices and Insights(07:22) Challenges and Solutions in Freelancing(12:17) Project-Based vs. Hourly Freelancing(16:57) Real-Life Freelancing Challenges(19:54) Finding and Vetting Freelance Talent(23:41) Overcoming Internal Resistance to Freelancers(25:39) Criteria for Hiring Freelancers(30:52) Integrating Freelancers into Teams(34:29) AI in Hiring and Digital Twin Technology#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“The biggest blocker isn’t policy or risk—it’s the phrase ‘we’ve always done it this way.’ The moment you drop that mindset, innovation starts.”In this episode, we discussed how companies can move beyond status quo hiring, embrace the independent workforce, and build flexible, scalable teams that drive growth and innovation, in particular:👉 The biggest mindset shift companies need to make when hiring freelancers.👉 How startups leverage freelancers as a growth accelerator.👉 What a perfect system for integrating freelancers could look like.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap.com, and Matthew Mottola, the CEO of Human Cloud, who lives and breathes the future of work, and helps global enterprises scale their freelance programs and make flexible talent a competitive advantage, who's also a published author, venture partner, and host of the leading global podcast in the freelance space.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Matthew and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewmottola/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Matt Mottola: CEO of Human Cloud(02:34) Evolution of the Independent Workforce Market(08:40) Challenges and Risks in Hiring Freelancers(15:59) Breaking the Stigma and Showcasing Wins(21:05) Freelance Models and Legal Considerations(23:56) Effective Strategies for Hiring Freelancers(31:20) Mindset Shifts in Hiring Freelancers(32:45) Advice for Companies New to Freelancing#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Hiring a freelancer isn’t about just saving costs, it’s about solving problems with precision.”In this episode, we discussed what it really takes to work successfully with independent experts: from identifying the right problem to solving it with the right talent, in particular:👉 The biggest mistake clients make when working with independent experts.👉 Common onboarding failures and how to prevent them.👉 How a multi-sourcing strategy ensures top talent placement.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Benjamin Walker, a Co-CEO of nemensis AG, who, with deep industry knowledge and smooth end-to-end processes, makes it easier for clients in the IT and life sciences worlds to fill skill gaps, scale fast, and hit critical project goals without the usual hiring headaches.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Benjamin and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminwalk3r/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Benjamin Walker: Co-CEO of nemensis AG(02:02) The Appeal of Freelancing in Germany(03:39) Challenges and Misconceptions in Freelancing(04:22) Effective Client-Freelancer Communication(08:12) Finding and Selecting the Right Freelancers(15:52) Onboarding and Administrative Hurdles(22:12) Managing Client Expectations and Project Risks(38:01) The Role of Staffing Companies in Freelancing(41:41) Advice for Companies New to Hiring Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“The number one blocker isn’t regulation — it’s internal decision-making delays that kill momentum before a project even starts.”In this episode, we discussed how companies can overcome internal and external barriers to collaborate effectively with independent business tech talent, in particular:👉 Why companies struggle to hire freelancers, and how to fix it.👉 The mindset shift companies need to embrace flexible talent.👉 The one thing that makes or breaks freelance hiring success.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Eusebi Llensa, the Co-founder and CEO of Outvise, the largest online marketplace for business tech experts, who, with deep roots in consulting and a passion for startups, stands right at the intersection of business, tech, and the freelance revolution, and helps companies drive digital transformation by connecting them with top flexible, on-demand professionals around the world.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Eusebi and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellensa/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Eusebi Llensa(01:23) The Journey of Outvise(05:24) Challenges and Benefits of Working with Independent Experts(09:18) Navigating Internal and External Blockers in Freelance Engagement(19:33) Specialized Platforms and the Future of Freelance Work(22:10) Efficient Matching and Screening Process(28:32) Client's Role in the Hiring Process(30:09) Workshops and Expert Consultations(33:57) Technology and AI in Freelance Management(38:27) Removing Barriers to Freelance Collaboration(40:42) Advice for Hiring Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“When you hire a freelancer, the expectation is instant value. You’re not investing months into onboarding — you’re bringing in an expert who can deliver from day one.”In this episode, we discussed the speed, the challenges, the trust, and the future of flexible work, in particular:👉 Why companies turn to freelancers and contractors for speed and expertise.👉 Why freelancer networks and recommendations matter more than databases.👉 How AI and automation are changing recruitment and freelance management.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Maciej Koszyk, a leader who has been shaping recruitment strategies across Europe for more than a decade, from building high-volume teams for Tesla to managing contingent workforce programs for Uber, and now as Head of Devire's Center of Excellence for Recruitment and the recruitment process outsourcing delivery, he helps organizations scale their operations across Poland, Europe, and beyond.Together, we explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Maciej and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/maciejkoszyk/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Maciej Koszyk from Devire(02:56) Freelancing vs Full-Time Work: Key Differences(05:05) Finding and Selecting Freelancers(09:16) The Importance of Communication Skills(15:50) Challenges in Matching Freelancers with Projects(22:35) Ensuring Compliance in Freelance Hiring(27:24) Dependency in Freelance Work(28:03) Utilizing Databases and Networks(29:14) Challenges in Freelance Platforms(31:42) Feedback and Milestones(34:50) Conflict Resolution in Freelancing(35:48) Mitigating Risks and Underperformance(41:41) AI and Automation in Freelancing(45:37) The Future of Staffing Companies(51:19) Advice for Hiring Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“Treat freelancers like part of the team, because they are. Even if they’re not on payroll, they’re carrying the same weight of responsibility, and when clients include them in communication and decision-making, the results are always better.”In this episode, we discussed the mindset shift companies need to unlock the true value of independent talent, in particular:👉 Why freelancers are no longer a backup option but a strategic asset for companies.👉 How staffing partners balance speed and quality in freelancer selection.👉 What companies should expect from freelancers vs. full-time employees.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Josh Jennings, a freelance talent partner at iO Associates helping consultancies, end-clients, and platforms build high-impact Databricks teams with top freelance experts fast with no compromise on quality or compliance.Together, we'll explore the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Josh and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-ioeu/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Josh Jennings: Freelance Talent Partner(01:56) Finding and Selecting Freelancers(04:12) Interview Process for Freelancers(06:46) Challenges in Matching Freelancers to Projects(08:08) Negotiating with Clients and Freelancers(09:59) Managing Client Expectations(12:14) Client Concerns and Aftercare(15:35) Handling Issues with Freelancers(21:56) Ensuring Compliance and Managing Payments(25:43) Measuring Success and Handling Feedback(37:33) The Future of Freelancing and AI(39:33) Evolving Role of Staffing Companies(43:46) Advice for Companies Hiring Freelancers#freelance #hiring #futureofwork

“One of the best reasons to bring in freelancers is that they teach you what’s happening outside your walls.”In this episode, we discussed how independent work, trust, and AI are reshaping the future of workforce strategy, in particular:👉 The rise of freelancers, contractors, and fractional experts in global companies.👉 Why trust is the #1 challenge in hiring independent talent.👉 Practical steps companies can take to integrate freelancers into their workforce strategy.Join Yurii Lazaruk, an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships at freelancermap, and Jon Younger, a published author, educator, Forbes contributor, and HR tech thought leader whose work has shaped how global companies engage independent talent who's often called the godfather of the freelance revolution.Together, they are exploring the now and the future of work through the lens of temporary employment, and how companies can get the most out of such collaboration! Connect with Jon and Yurii on Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-younger-phd-57a41455/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yurii-lazaruk-community-consultant/Whether you’re looking to hire top freelance talent fast or are a freelancer ready to find your next big project, freelancermap connects the right people with the right work 💪Visit https://www.freelancermap.com/ and start building your next success story today!🚀Timestamps:(00:00) Meet Jon Younger: The Godfather of Freelance Revolution(01:42) John's Journey from HR to Freelancing(03:14) The Role of AI in Workforce(04:13) Motivations Behind Choosing Freelancing(07:07) Challenges Companies Face with Freelancers(09:37) The Evolving Workforce Market Post-COVID(14:10) Aligning Company Expectations with Freelancer Realities(19:01) Advice for Companies Starting to Use Freelancers(26:47) The Future of Workforce, Freelancing, and AI Collaboration#freelance #hiring #futureofwork