8 Tips for Managing Independent Contractors

Working with independent contractors is like having an all-star team you can call up when needed. They bring fresh expertise and flexibility to your business—but managing them requires a different playbook than you’d use with employees.

Think of contractors as strategic partners rather than temporary help. They run their own business, working when and where they choose to deliver the results you both agreed on. This independence means success depends on clear expectations and strong communication from day one.

Ready to build lasting relationships with skilled contractors? Start right here.

Independent Contractor Management: Keys to Success

1. Create a Rock-Solid Contract

You can likely skip the traditional job description. Independent contractors need a clear Statement of Work (SOW) that spells out exactly what they’ll deliver, when it’s due, and how they’ll be paid.

Work together to create this roadmap before starting and be sure to include a plan for handling changes. Trust us, they’ll happen, and having a process in place will save countless headaches later.

Discover: 6 Ways to Build Better Relationships With Independent Contractors

2. Communicate Clearly

To keep your project on track, start by setting up regular check-ins. Whether it’s weekly video calls or progress reports, consistent updates help everyone stay on the same page. These check-ins provide an opportunity to address any issues early and ensure tasks are completed on time.

If your project involves multiple teams, designate one point person to keep things moving smoothly. Incorporate collaborative tools like Basecamp or a company VPN—whatever works best for sharing files and staying connected.

3. Set Goals and Milestones

Success needs more than just deadlines and budgets. Break down your project into concrete milestones that show real progress. Think specific deliverables, quality benchmarks, or client satisfaction targets. These smaller goals keep your team focused and motivated as they work toward the bigger picture.

Use collaborative tools like Google Calendar or Asana to track milestones and catch any issues early. These tools ensure smoother project execution and help you stay on track for timely completion.

See: How to Build a Competitive Workforce Strategy for Your Organization

4. Encourage Knowledge Transfer Between Contractors and Employees

From the start, set the expectation for open communication and regular knowledge sharing. Make sure contractors are looped into relevant conversations and have clear channels to share insights, updates, and context with your team.

Encouraging day-to-day collaboration helps everyone stay aligned and ensures important details don’t fall through the cracks. Consistent communication is key to preserving momentum and avoiding disruptions.

5. Build a Feedback Loop

Create opportunities for two-way feedback throughout the project, not just at the end. Regular check-ins should allow contractors to share their thoughts on processes, tools, or ways to improve. Their outside perspective can help identify problems or opportunities that internal teams might miss.

At the same time, offer your contractors constructive feedback so they can adjust and improve. A continuous feedback loop helps keep everyone aligned and focused on the same goals, which leads to better project results.

Discover: How to Successfully Collaborate With Independent Contractors

6. Establish Clear Boundaries

While independent contractors should feel like valued partners, it’s important to maintain appropriate professional boundaries. Be clear about what company resources they can access and how they should interact with your employees and clients. This prevents confusion and helps both contractors and employees work together effectively.

For example, decide upfront whether contractors should use company email addresses, attend all-hands meetings, or participate in other team activities. Clear guidelines create a sense of structure and ensure that everyone understands their role and responsibilities within the company.

7. Set Clear Expectations and Deadlines

Establishing clear expectations from the start is key to a successful project. Define specific tasks, deliverables, and deadlines, ensuring that both contractors and internal teams are aligned. This helps avoid any misunderstandings and sets a clear path for what needs to be done.

In addition to deadlines, be transparent about the quality and scope of work expected. Regularly check in on progress to make sure that the work meets the required standards. By keeping expectations clear and tracking milestones, you ensure the project runs smoothly and minimize the risk of major delays.

Learn More: Attract Top Independent Contractors With These 5 Tips

8. Focus on the Bigger Picture

You’re focused on outcomes, not time spent. Consider what your contractors deliver and how well they communicate, not their daily schedules. Set up an easy system for managing these partnerships, and you’ll create a trusted network of independent talent you can rely on for future projects.

Remember: Clear expectations and open communication help keep relationships strong and productive. Treat your contractors like the professionals they are, and you’ll build partnerships that lead to success for both sides.

For more on becoming a client of choice, check out our guide on attracting and retaining top independent contractors.

MBO Partners Supports Your Workforce Management Efforts

No matter your industry or location, independent contractors can have a major impact on your company. If you’re looking for additional support with contingent workforce management, MBO Partners can help. Our blog covers a wide range of topics, including employer branding, workforce compliance, and more. Take advantage of our tools and resources so you can build lasting relationships with top talent.