A freelance worker is a person that is commonly self-employed and not committed to any long-term employer. They are usually represented by a temp agency and often work from home. Another term that could be used is independent contractor. Employers are not on the hook to provide a benefits package to this type of worker, and their compensation is often lower than their employed counterparts. They are also easy to dispose of, since they have no rights as an employee. Another downside is the work can be intermediate, but a freelancer retains the rights to their work/intellectual property instead of the company.
According to the Freelancers Union, nearly 1/3 of the US workforce are independent contractors and growing. It is expected to make up 40% of the workforce by 2020. The compensation they receive is also growing; it has increased by 5%, which is an increase 10 times faster than traditional wages. Nevada alone has had 103% increase in freelancers hired.
Employers like the savings on compensation, taxes and insurance. Independent contractors can also fill in for jobs that do not require a position because it is temporary work. The freelancer is specialized in that particular area of work and therefor has a higher quality to their work. Their quality of work is not usually and issue, especially if you use an agent. While, a freelance worker may not be loyal to your organization while they are there, they are loyal to their work and reputation.
http://www.businessinsider.com/freelance-workers-jobs-pay-are-rising-2013-10
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freelancer
http://www.business2community.com/human-resources/full-time-vs-freelance-workers-hire-0623222