Author: Chantelle van den Heever
The gig workforce isn’t a trend. It’s a core part of how businesses operate today. Companies are leaning into freelance, contract and on-demand talent for speed, flexibility and sharp expertise.
But if your team isn’t made up of full-time employees, what does leadership actually look like?
Most leadership models were built for 9–5, in-office teams. They depend on oversight, hours worked, and long-term incentives like bonuses and promotions.
That doesn’t work for gig talent. Here’s why:
Traditional leadership is built on control and hierarchy. Gig work is not.
Freelancers work independently — but their output still needs to hit the mark. Without direction, you risk poor delivery, delays, and a disconnect from your brand.
Here’s how to keep it tight:
A strong brief is non-negotiable. It should cover:
They’re not clocking in and out. You’re hiring them for the outcome.
Be specific on what success looks like. Trust them to run with it. Give feedback that’s direct and useful.
Good communication keeps everything on track. Set your systems up properly:
People do their best work when they see the value. Show them where their work lands, the difference it makes, and why it matters to the business.
Gig workers aren’t permanent staff, but they don’t need to feel like outsiders. Building good relationships gives you faster, better work from people who know your business.
Work with the same top performers over time. Set up a preferred network. Create a clear contract model that works for them and you.
The smoother the process, the better the results.
To get the best from gig talent, shift your mindset. You’re not managing — you’re coordinating.
They optimise their own time. You’re paying for outcomes.
Retain good people. Re-onboard less. Get work done faster.
Be clear and constructive. Acknowledge wins. Treat them like a partner, not a temp.
At VSLS, we help businesses lead blended teams with clarity and impact. Whether you’re scaling a trusted freelance network, creating better briefs, or building engagement that lasts beyond the contract — we’ve got the tools and experience to support you.
Let’s start the conversation. Reach out to Christo Smit at christo.smit@vsls.com to see how we can help you make gig work… work.
