Secondment is a common staffing arrangement. For freelancers, it means being temporarily assigned to work for a different client company.
What is Secondment?
Secondment is a formal, temporary assignment of a worker to another organization. As a freelancer, you remain employed or contracted by your main agency or client, but you perform your duties for a different company. It's a common practice for sharing specialized skills or filling short-term staffing gaps.
Why is this important?
Understanding secondment is crucial because it defines your working relationships and liabilities. Your contract and payment typically come from the original agency, not the host company you work at. This structure affects who manages your work, provides feedback, and is responsible for your contractual obligations.
How does it work?
You secure a contract with a staffing agency or a primary client. They then place you with a host company to complete a specific project or role. You work at the host company's site or remotely for them, but your formal reporting and invoicing line goes back to your original contract holder.
Pros and cons
Key advantages include access to premium clients via agencies and reduced administrative hassle. Potential downsides involve less direct control over your client relationship and possible confusion over management lines. The pay rate may also differ from a direct contract.
Conclusion
Secondment can be a valuable way to access new opportunities and clients. Always review your contract carefully to understand the chain of responsibility. Clarifying reporting lines and communication protocols upfront is essential for a smooth assignment.
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