An employer has full control over the employee. The employee must complete the work assigned by following the instructions of the employer. An independent contractor is an individual hired by an employer to perform a specific task. The employer has no control over the methods used by the independent contractor.

The difference between an employee and independent contractor have been discussed. In your place of work, are you an independent contractor or an employee? Have you ever been classified as one or the other?

• Explain your personal experience or the experience of another you are aware of in dealing with an independent contractor? Explore a minimum of 1 positive and 1 negative experience.
• Would you prefer to be an employee or independent contractor? Why?

Review and consider the experiences presented by others. Share your thoughts on the responses of other students. In your replies to others, share any insights you have in dealing with an independent contractor that others may find helpful.