Jason Monastra

My life and thoughts out on the web

I read a good amount of articles about basic employee-employer relationships, and a recent article got me thinking about the new work force and if it is better or not.  The article comments mostly on the development of employees becoming more resources to be used as needed vs. the full time employees.  A rise in consultants, sub-contractors, etc. have changed what could be considered the traditional relationship, causing an entirely new suite of workforce issues.  So are we better off or not?

In a global economy, the need for free flowing human capital resources is growing, and more importantly required.  Supply chains, business process and additional components are less traditional, therefore requiring professionals that are up to the task.  Developing countries and new landscapes for US companies require a diverse set of highly specialized skills, most not needed on a full time basis.  This sort of expertise is groomed through multiple projects and can be invaluable driving the compensation for such professionals upward.  As with anything, there are cons as well. Full time work, security, and other emotional factors of the traditional relationship are lost leaving people unsure of their future.  In addition, the consultant is not only a unique skill set technically, but also functionally calling for soft skills that not all people possess.  These people will need to be sales people, promoting their skills to potential clients.  Again - not all people have this suite of characteristics.

Companies need to continue to manage their employees, especially those that are needed consistently.  Consultants need to be directed for projects specific to intiatives that require distinct timeline requirements, ones that have a beginning and an end.  A mix of both the consulant and employee is a strong foundation for companies working in a global scene.