The use of independent professionals is now an integral part of the flexible layer of organisations. Particularly in sectors such as engineering and IT, the proportion of freelancers is continuously growing. At the same time, there is an increasing need for control: over quality, rates, and compliance. Direct sourcing provides a powerful solution to this.
While traditional hiring often involves multiple intermediaries, direct sourcing allows organisations to directly approach, select, and contract independent professionals. The result? Shorter lead times, lower costs, and a stronger connection with the professional.
The building blocks of a successful direct sourcing strategy
An effective direct sourcing approach begins with a clear process framework. Who does what? Which profiles are suitable? And how do you ensure compliance? By making clear agreements in advance about intake, matching, selection, and contracting, a streamlined workflow is created that fits within the organisation's governance.
Next, it is important to be visible. A well-designed landing page, linked to a modern VMS or FMS platform, acts as a digital business card. Here, freelancers not only find assignments but also stories about projects, teams, and social impact. This creates a recognisable and appealing client brand that attracts professionals.
Smart technology and personal attention within your freelance network
Technology plays a key role in direct sourcing. Think of AI matching, which automatically links available freelancers to relevant assignments. Or dashboards that provide real-time insights into lead times, placement rates, and rate compliance. But technology is just a tool. The real strength lies in the balance between tech and touch. Through personal conversations, quarterly meetings, and themed sessions, professionals remain engaged and motivated. Our field managers play a crucial role in this: they are the point of contact for the freelancer and ensure connection, guidance, and transition.
Chain transparency and compliance as a condition for your freelance network
A common concern with direct sourcing is the risk of false self-employment. Therefore, it is essential to ensure compliance is established correctly from the start. Think about assessing assignments for potential false self-employment, recording chain declarations, and using a clear traffic light model for risk assessment. By documenting and monitoring each placement, a transparent and lawful working method is created. And this is not only beneficial for the organisation but also for the professional, who knows where they stand.
What direct sourcing delivers
A well-organised direct sourcing approach provides demonstrable benefits:
- Faster placements: on average, 20% shorter time-to-fill.
- Lower costs: on average, 8% savings by avoiding unnecessary intermediaries.
- Higher engagement: professionals feel more connected to the organisation.
- More control over quality: direct selection and monitoring ensure better matches.
From hiring to partnership
Direct sourcing is more than a hiring strategy. It is a way to build sustainable relationships with self-employed professionals. By taking them seriously, being transparent, and providing opportunities for development, a network is created that grows with the organisation. And that is precisely what is needed in a market where flexibility, speed, and quality make the difference. Use direct sourcing strategically and create a future-proof network of committed and reliable professionals. Start strengthening your flexible workforce today.
See also
Why The ZZPuzzel is the book every client must read in 2026
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AI changes freelance professionals' rates
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Rates vary significantly by profession
Rates vary greatly per profession. Experience, scarcity, and AI determine where rates rise, stabilise, or come under pressure.