Hiring a freelancer isn’t about saving costs, it’s about solving problems with precision.
The world of work is evolving, and for many forward-thinking companies, freelancers and independent experts are no longer a backup option, but a strategic advantage. On a recent episode of The Independent Workforce podcast, we sat down with Benjamin Walker, Co-CEO of nemensis AG, to talk about what makes freelance collaboration succeed or fall apart.
Spoiler alert: it’s not just about having the right CV.
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From Gaps to Goals: The Real Role of Freelancers
When Benjamin launched nemensis, it wasn’t just to fill roles. It was to help solve critical problems in the IT and life sciences industries: fast, risk-free, and without the usual hiring friction.
In many cases, a freelancer is the solution, but not always. That’s why we first start with the client’s problem, not with pitching freelance talent.
Nemensis takes a solution-first approach, guiding clients to define what they actually need before looking for a profile.
Because as Benjamin puts it: “If you don’t know the exact problem, how can you find the perfect expert to solve it?.”
Why High-Skilled Freelancers Are Different
Benjamin has worked with over 450 freelancers since 2016, and he’s clear on what sets the best apart: ownership, autonomy, and deep expertise.
I love working with people I can completely trust. I don’t need to micromanage them. I give them the goal, and they deliver.
Unlike full-time employees, top freelancers thrive without hand-holding. But many companies make the mistake of managing them like staff. That’s where things break down.
Common Pitfalls Clients Face
Benjamin was candid about the biggest challenges clients face when working with freelancers:
- Unclear onboarding processes
- Delays in communication or decision-making
- Trying to manage freelancers like employees
- Administrative fears (especially in Germany with “pseudo self-employment” laws)
- Assuming “remote” means “unavailable”
One of the biggest blockers is pseudo self-employment. It makes clients insecure. But with the right partner, this risk is manageable, and shouldn’t stop companies from accessing top talent.
Behind the Scenes: How Matching Really Works
How do you find a freelancer who doesn’t just have the skills but actually fits?
It starts with truly understanding the client’s expectations. Sometimes they’ll send just three keywords – but a freelancer’s experience can’t be matched on keywords alone.
Nemensis uses a multi-sourcing strategy: their internal pool, open platforms like freelancermap, and even LinkedIn to find the best match. But human conversation is still their most powerful tool.
We always talk to the freelancer. We ask: where have you solved similar problems? How would you approach this? That tells us more than any resume.
Real Talk: When Things Go Wrong
Freelancer collaboration isn’t without risks. Benjamin shared a few hard-earned stories – like the freelancer who didn’t show up to a critical automotive backup system switch that required the manufacturer to pause production.
The entire line was stopped. The cost was huge. That’s why trust is non-negotiable. And that’s why we carry the risk so our clients don’t have to.
Nemensis builds a safety net into their business model, covering legal, administrative, and compliance issues so clients can stay focused on delivery.
Measuring Success: It’s Not Just KPIs
We measure success in happiness. If the client is happy, the freelancer is happy, and we’re happy, that’s a win. The best result? When they work together again on another project down the line.
The goal isn’t just a completed project. It’s a long-term relationship built on mutual trust and results.
What about AI and Automation?
You’d think AI would make freelance matching easier. Not quite, at least, not yet
Auto-matching looks great on the surface, but we’ve seen AI lie. It tells you the CV matches even when it doesn’t. You still need people to talk to people.
As the tech improves, Nemensis is exploring new ways to integrate it. But human vetting remains the gold standard.
Advice for First-Time Clients
Thinking of hiring your first freelancer? Benjamin has one clear message:
If you’re unsure, don’t go it alone. Talk to a freelance agency. You’ll save time, money, and avoid the common mistakes.
And he’s right. Partnering with someone who’s done it hundreds of times means you skip the guesswork, and go straight to results.
The Future of Freelance? Cross-Border Collaboration
One of Benjamin’s biggest hopes for the future?
A truly unified European freelance market. Right now, the market is fragmented. But imagine clients and freelancers across Europe working together without borders.
A world where talent isn’t limited by ZIP code but powered by skills, trust, and access.
Final Thoughts
Freelance work isn’t just a “trend”. It’s a strategic asset for modern businesses. But to truly succeed, both sides – clients and freelancers – need clear expectations, mutual respect, and support from trusted partners.
Benjamin and his team at Nemensis are showing what that can look like in action.
Whether you’re a hiring manager or a freelancer yourself, one thing is clear:
The future of work is already here, and it’s independent.
