Definition
Temporary workers, contractors, freelancers, and consultants who aren't regular employees. They're the corporate equivalent of a rental car: you use them when needed and return them without long-term commitment.
Example Usage
We'll fill the gap with contingent workforce members who get none of the benefits and all of the work.
Origin
Emerged in business literature during the 1980s as temporary staffing grew
Fun Fact
Some companies have contingent workers comprising over 40% of their total workforce, creating a two-tier system that definitely won't cause any resentment.
Source: Workforce management and labor economics
Related Terms
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See “contingent workforce” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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