❌ Mistake 4: Poor tracking and tech integration
If you’re still managing contractor timesheets via spreadsheets or emails, with hiring managers across different departments unable to see the whole picture, you’re exposed. Inaccurate tracking leads to billing errors, missed milestones, and budget blowouts, not to mention compliance risks.
Use an integrated VMS or workforce management platform that tracks time, milestones, costs, and compliance in one place. Set up automated reporting for visibility across departments.
Talk to us about our vendor-neutral VMS product today
❌ Mistake 5: Neglecting communication and culture
We didn’t know what the contractors were working on—and they didn’t know who to ask. — Programme Manager, Enterprise IT
There's a reason contingent workers have been called the 'invisible' workforce. Contractors often operate on the fringe of your organisation. Without structured communication, you're paying for half-engaged talent and not getting your ROI from each worker you engage.
Include contractors in project kickoffs, set them up in collaboration tools (e.g. Teams, Slack), and assign them an internal project sponsor to keep them in the loop. And don't forget their onboarding experience.
There's a reason Oncore sponsors the 'Excellence in Onboarding' award at the Internal Talent Awards each year. It's such a critical piece of your communications with your workers.
To read more about optimising the important relationships you have with your contractors click read 9 Best Practises to Optimise Successful Contractor Relationships
❌ Mistake #6: Sticking with the status quo, letting stale models linger
Too many enterprises stick to outdated models simply because they’re “the way we’ve always done it.” If you haven't reviewed your workforce strategy or supplier agreements and tech stack in 2+ years, you're almost certainly leaving savings on the table.
We've had two expert discussions on this topic on our Podcast:
- The Status Quo is Out - New tech, greater flexibility and efficiency is in - with Christian Clark and Adam Caines, founders of Upplft
- The keys to successful contingent workforces now and in the future with Terri Gallagher, of
Want to dig deeper? Start with our definitive guide to designing and running an effective contingent workforce program to see what best practice looks like.
✅ Governance Checklist for Program Managers
Here’s your go-to list for smarter contingent workforce oversight:
- Annual workforce plan aligned with business goals
- Vendor SLAs + performance reviews
- Classification audits (ABN vs PAYG vs employee)
- Centralised tracking + reporting platform
- Contractor onboarding + engagement strategy
- Annual program and contract reviews
Ready to Optimise Your Contingent Workforce?
If you're serious about reducing costs, increasing compliance, and getting full value from your contingent workforce, the right tools and partnerships make all the difference.
👋 At Oncore, we help enterprise teams simplify contingent workforce management with the right blend of tech, process, and expert support.
📞 Contact us today to talk through your current setup and discover quick wins.
💬 “Together, we can turn your flexible workforce into a strategic asset—not a financial risk.”