Corporations are realizing that the free agent trend is not going away. More importantly, internal managers recognize free agents as way to manage their budgets by getting work done project by project rather than by hiring staff. Plus you’ll typically gain a resource with much more expertise for the same or a lower investment than hiring an employee.

• Ask around. Some of the best free agents don’t advertise. Talk to colleagues you respect for names of free agents they would recommend.

• Consider going through a placement agency if you are looking for a full-time contractor.

• Develop a clear role description for the free agent, and negotiate the contract to include specific expectations and how they will be measured.

• Set a review date six months out to evaluate how the independent contractor is working out.

• If things seem to be headed in the wrong direction, consult with your free agent. Treat her like the expert she is – not just another pair of hands. And listen.

• Use your best interpersonal communication techniques. You can get amazing results from a free agent, if you are willing to “speak her language” and teach her yours.