Many small companies are trying to empower their employees and alleviate some of the hardships of over regulations, taxation and paper work. Often these small businesses will attempt to make their employees Independent Contractors. Where this might sound like a good idea it is also a very gray area of law and can get you into a real bind if not done correctly.

Even so for some types of businesses it does make a lot of sense. For instance those types of businesses, which are offsite where supervision is next to impossible and you need to make sure you get your monies worth. If you have workers who use their own vehicles it might even make more sense to attempt using Independent Contractors. It might be worth discussing this with one of the parasites of the Earth, an attorney. Like company middle managers, independent contractors are in charge of their crew and the image of the crew. To be considered an independent contractor by the Internal Revenue Service, there are 13 points, which you must satisfy. These thirteen points fall into three categories: Time; Mode; Manner

Telling an independent contractor how to dress, groom themselves or act can be misconstrued as ‘manner.’ Without some form of control over independents, you cannot be sure they hold your image in mind. Independent contractors should also have a 5x7 index card fastened to the back of the visor in their work vehicles labeled suggested grooming and dress ideas. On this card will be listed the same checklist as that of their oversee’er advising the independent contractor of their image obligations. Contractors should have their contracts terminated if they don’t follow your image requirements.

Attitude of an independent contractor is the most important thing to consider since they are dealing with your customers directly. If he or she is the gung-ho, Siemper Fie type, they probably are all for the team and you won’t have a problem. Look for good attitude. In fact, the independent contractor should care even more about image than you, as their income will rise or fall based on image since the customer might opt for additional work to be done and thus they stand to make more money.

Independent Contractors is one option to your workforce and there can be legal ramifications if you mess things up. So you will need to discuss this with your favorite parasite as we discussed above before attempting to convert your workforce. Think about it.

"Lance Winslow" - If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs