With the continued rise of freelancers, the traditional workforce model is changing to one that includes employees and non-employees in a blended workforce. The need for project managers (PM) who understand how to work within a mixed team is critical. In this blog post, we’ll look at the top three things you should consider when integrating a freelance project manager within a blended team so they can steer your project to success.

1. Define the role
Know what you’re looking for. Given that project management roles can vary widely across teams, it’s crucial to clearly define your expectations and the responsibilities you envision for your project manager. This will facilitate a smoother integration into your blended team, especially for freelancers who must adapt quickly compared to full-time employees accustomed to extended onboarding. A well-defined role from the start is essential, as freelancers are expected to acclimate rapidly.

Consultant insight: “Some clients want a project manager (PM) in the broad sense of the role, who pitches in wherever there is need across programs, operations, ROB, etc. Some clients believe they need a PM, but they’re actually seeking a Program Manager to oversee a program’s strategic direction. And some clients expect a true PM with PMP certification who will manage a single project end to end applying a strict methodology. Therefore, my suggestion would be to encourage the client to clearly articulate what they need when they go to hire a PM into their blended workforce.”
– Joelle Thompson, Sr Consultant, Lions & Tigers

2. Get buy-in from your existing team
Ensure your team supports the decision before hiring freelance project managers. Without constructive communication beforehand, employees may react defensively to new freelancers, perceiving them as threats rather than allies, which could jeopardize project success. To prevent this, address your team’s concerns and solicit their feedback before introducing a new project manager while also communicating the PM’s contributions and R&Rs.

Consultant insight: “It’s essential that your team and the freelance project manager are aligned on how they will work together. Clearly articulating roles and responsibilities between all parties involved helps reduce potential friction. It’s important these are communicated and agreed upon early in the project. With everyone working towards a common goal and with clear roles and responsibilities established, you’ll be well on your way to a successful project.”

– Steven Rowe, Sr Director, Strategic Accounts, Lions & Tigers

3. Look for project managers who are curious & adaptable
A successful project manager in a blended workforce has a toolkit of skills and capabilities to help them navigate and thrive in new environments. Of these, curiosity and adaptability are at the top of the list when considering a project manager for a blended team.

The ideal candidate should show genuine curiosity towards team members’ motivations and challenges. Freelance project managers are oftentimes brought on for a specialized project and prioritize its success, while employees may have broader or more varied priorities. This person should go beyond their role to understand what success looks like to various team members, then use that information to support them and collaborate more effectively.

Consultant insight: “When I’m talking with a new client or team member, I’m curious about who they are, where they came from, what’s important to them, and what makes them tick. I’m curious about what they are trying to achieve, and why. Who do they need to impress? What does knocking it out of the park look like to them? I’m curious about how things can be improved, how we can create a better experience for the user, salesperson, customer, partner, etc., and what that would mean to them? How can we have a positive impact?”
– Stephanie Selin, Sr Program & Project Manager, Lions & Tigers

In order to be successful on a blended team, a project manager must adopt the tools and rhythms of the existing team. A successful freelance project manager will be willing to learn whatever tools are in place. This skill is crucial for maintaining team cohesion and efficiency, especially in a blended work environment where different members may prefer different platforms and schedules and availability can vary.

Consultant insight: “I’ve always found it best to ask upfront what tools people are already using and snapping to their tools. It’s also important to understand how people are using each of these tools, not just what they are. If I can do my own research and see that there are features that could help their work that they aren’t using, that can be an immediate win if you can bring that integration.”
– Stephanie Hofmeister, Operations Project Manager, Lions & Tigers

Adapting to the evolving landscape of the workforce demands a strategic approach to integrating freelance project managers into blended teams. By defining roles clearly, securing team buy-in, and selecting project managers with curiosity and adaptability, organizations can navigate these changes effectively and put your team on track for success.

Build your Blended Workforce
Learn why now is the time to build your blended workforce
Talk to us about how to find the right talent for your role.