This article was based on the interview with Sue Keith of Landrum Talent Solutions by Greg Kihlström, MarTech keynote speaker for The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström podcast. Listen to the original episode here:
Within marketing teams, the challenge of maintaining productivity while facing budgetary constraints has become increasingly pronounced. Many organizations are grappling with lean staffing models, where the expectations of output remain high despite a lack of resources. In this context, leveraging contractors emerges as a strategic approach not only to fulfill immediate project needs but also to substantiate the case for permanent hiring.
The podcast discusses how marketing teams are creatively responding to staffing shortages by employing interim contractors. This practice allows organizations to utilize their program budgets more flexibly, directing funds toward temporary hires rather than full-time positions. This tactic serves a dual purpose: it helps teams manage their workload effectively while simultaneously providing a tangible demonstration of the need for additional full-time roles. By bringing in contractors, organizations can showcase the impact of these positions, making it easier to justify hiring requests to upper management.
A compelling example shared in the podcast illustrates this point effectively. A client who initially struggled to secure approval for a full-time event position hired a contractor instead. The contractor’s exceptional performance not only filled the immediate gap but also provided concrete evidence of the role’s necessity. This success led to the eventual approval of a full-time hire, transforming a temporary solution into a long-term staffing strategy. Such stories reflect a broader trend in which organizations utilize contractors as a proof of concept, demonstrating the value and impact of specific roles within their teams.
However, the conversation does not stop at simply filling gaps. As the podcast notes, hiring managers must remain vigilant and strategic in their approach, especially as organizations prepare for budget discussions. With the rise of AI and automation, there is a looming concern that these technologies may threaten job security within marketing teams. Although current trends indicate that AI is being used to enhance productivity rather than replace human roles, the potential for future shifts means that hiring managers must be prepared to defend their staffing needs.
In this climate, the advice to hiring managers is clear: utilize contractors not only as a stopgap measure but as a strategic tool to illustrate and validate the need for full-time positions. By doing so, they can create a compelling narrative around the effectiveness and necessity of their teams. This approach allows organizations to navigate the complexities of budget constraints while advocating for the resources they need to thrive.
Moreover, the podcast emphasizes the significance of being proactive in discussions with CEOs and CFOs regarding team size and hiring requests. As budget season approaches, hiring managers should be ready to articulate the value that contractors bring to their teams and how this investment aligns with broader organizational goals. By framing the conversation around productivity, effectiveness, and the potential risks of under-resourcing, hiring managers can position themselves favorably when advocating for their teams.
The insights shared in “The Agile Brand” podcast underscore the importance of understanding the broader context in which hiring decisions are made. While the past few years have been marked by significant challenges, the signs of cautious optimism indicate that a recovery may be on the horizon. By acknowledging the factors at play and remaining adaptable, stakeholders can better navigate the uncertainties of the hiring climate and position themselves for future success. As the market evolves, the ability to pivot and respond to changing conditions will be key for both hiring managers and job seekers alike. Leveraging contractors to demonstrate need is not merely a tactical response; it is a strategic imperative that can pave the way for sustainable growth and success in an increasingly competitive landscape.
