Independent consultants: A segmentation, definition, review and research agenda

Cross, David (2018) Independent consultants: A segmentation, definition, review and research agenda. British Academy of Management Annual Meeting, UWE Business School, Bristol, United Kingdom. 04 - 06 Sep 2018.

Record type: Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)

Abstract

Due to the heterogeneous nature of the self-employed workforce, segmentation has emerged as an urgent need. This paper problematises existing definitions before defining independent consultants by triangulating theory concerning independent contractors in business-business relationships, intellectual and human capital, and research on consultancy and Professional Service Firms (PSFs) where barriers and control of entry are low. Importantly these highlight how independent consultants are different from allied legal and business professionals that they are often categorised alongside. The paper discusses implications for these areas of theory, collaboration and organisational strategy, and managing these workers as part of a blended workforce. Moreover whilst consultants, knowledge workers and self-employed individuals are often portrayed as free and autonomous, issues around freedom and client control remain. The paper consolidates existing theory and provides a firm theoretical grounding for future research. It goes on to offer avenues for future research in the growing field of independent consultants.

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