Virtual Workers in Demand Among Australian SMEs

In a recent survey, businesses value the flexibility and wider talent pool derived from hiring virtual workers, with Australian SMEs leading the pack.

Australia's SME sector is thriving with the help of its business ties with Asia. While some are debating over outsourcing, the Asian Century white paper, and brooding over offshoring by global banks, these small players made a smart decision despite the catcalls.

So it's no wonder that Australia leads the world in online hiring per capita. Australian businesses are increasingly hiring for technical skills such as web design, mobile application, and personal assistance.

Key findings in the survey revealed that while 92% were motivated by cost savings, 71% said they needed flexible staffing, and 70% said faster hiring was the reason.

Small companies can't afford to sustain huge staff. Start-ups need jobs on a short-term basis. SMEs also don't have the time for head-hunting.

A flexible staffing arrangement enables Australian SMEs to meet these challenges without breaking the bank. Larger firms are now recognising its benefits and slowly catching up. Last year, tech and consulting giant IBM launched a similar work structure.

The decision to seek alternatives from the traditional hiring model is a practical solution. According to the survey, 95% of respondents agreed that the criteria for hiring will be based on the right skills, rather than location. Ninety-six percent believed that  majority of businesses in the future will have a team of in-house and virtual workers.