The COVID-19 crisis has dramatically changed the American economy and the American workforce in a matter of months. Under “safer-at-home” guidelines and recommendations, many companies have shifted part of their workforce toward working from home using digital applications.

Many industries are also responding to layoffs and economic pressures by hiring remote workers and shifting toward freelance contractors. Employers are finding that remote contract employees offer a level of scalability that helps their organizations a higher level of economic flexibility during uncertain times.

All of these changes add up to a future where a digital workforce is quickly becoming a permanent reality for many industries. In this post from the technical and engineering recruiters at One Tech Engineering, we’re breaking down what’s involved in developing a digital-ready workforce for your organization.

Embracing a Digital Future

Although COVID-19 has been a change driver pushing American industry toward virtual work, the shift was already underway long before the pandemic began. Over the past 15 years, the American workforce has changed from the post-war model where an employee would work for the same company for decades and finally retire.

After the economic changes of the early 21st century, the gig economy began to take root. Today’s employers appreciate the scalability offered when hiring freelance employees and the ability to hire for specific roles and changing needs. It’s simply more feasible to hire contract workers for a project.

Rather than retraining and refocusing employees, organizations are able to hire for a precise skill set and knowledge base. In turn, freelancers appreciate the career flexibility afforded by the gig economy.

Shifting Your Organization Toward a Blended Workforce

The benefits for employers when leaning into digital-ready employment are far-reaching. Digital freelancers are more able to work autonomously and are highly adaptable. They’re also excellent communicators and take on their own professional development, often learning skills for each new project that they’re able to use moving forward.

If you’re shifting toward a blended or digital workforce, take the following steps:

●        Begin using digital applications and communication tools

●        Outline your organizational and project objectives

●        Work with technical recruiting services professionals to connect with digital-ready workers

●        Develop collaborative practices

●        Support professional development for employees and freelancers

Technical Drafting Jobs and Recruiting in Minnesota and Beyond

If you’re looking for ways to scale your workforce and help to reduce expenses during these uncertain times, making the shift to a remote or blended workforce is a good place to start. At One Tech Engineering in Minnesota, our expert technical recruiting services can help connect you with a digital workforce.

We offer contract and contract-to-direct hiring opportunities. To find out how we can help achieve your organizational goals, call to connect with our engineering and technical recruiting services at 952.884.9199 or contact us online.