STAFFING MODELS

C2C vs W2 vs Direct Hire — Explained

Every hiring need has a right engagement model. The wrong one creates compliance risk, cost overruns, or candidate drop-off. Here's how each model works — and how Orah supports it end to end.

MODEL 01

Corp-to-Corp (C2C)

How It Works

The consultant is employed by their own corporation (or a partner vendor); your company contracts with that corporation. No payroll or benefits obligation on the client side.

Best For

Senior, specialized, project-based roles — especially IT. Preferred by experienced consultants who run their own S-corp or LLC.

What Orah Handles
  • Vendor document verification (incorporation, insurance where required)
  • Work authorization checks and visa status confirmation
  • Rate negotiation and right-to-represent
  • Timesheet and invoice coordination
MODEL 02

W2 Contract (Hourly / Salaried)

How It Works

The contractor is on Orah's payroll. We withhold taxes, run payroll, and carry employer obligations; the client pays a bill rate.

Best For

Long-term contracts, healthcare and finance roles, and positions where clients require direct employment or state regulations mandate W2.

What Orah Handles
  • Payroll processing with weekly / bi-weekly cycles
  • Federal, state, and local tax withholding
  • Onboarding paperwork and I-9 verification
  • Background and drug screening per client requirements
MODEL 03

1099 / Independent Contractor

How It Works

The professional contracts as an individual. Suitable only where classification rules genuinely allow it — we review classification before placing anyone on 1099.

Best For

Short engagements where the professional meets legitimate independent-contractor criteria under applicable federal and state tests.

What Orah Handles
  • Classification review against IRS and state tests
  • Contractor agreements and scope-of-work documentation
  • Invoicing structure and payment coordination
MODEL 04

Contract-to-Hire

How It Works

Start on contract (typically 3–6 months), convert to permanent on pre-agreed terms. We structure conversion rates upfront so there are no surprises.

Best For

Clients who want to evaluate cultural fit before committing to a permanent headcount. Candidates seeking a structured path to permanence.

What Orah Handles
  • Upfront conversion fee structure — agreed before contract start
  • Contract payroll (W2 or C2C) during the trial period
  • Conversion paperwork and offer coordination
  • Smooth handoff to client HR on conversion date
MODEL 05

Direct Hire / Permanent Placement

How It Works

Full-cycle recruitment on contingency — sourcing, screening, interview coordination, and offer management. You pay a placement fee only when a candidate starts.

Best For

Permanent headcount additions, leadership roles, and positions where the client wants a long-term employee from day one.

What Orah Handles
  • Full sourcing across active and passive candidate pools
  • Technical and behavioral screening to client specifications
  • Interview scheduling and candidate communication
  • Offer negotiation and start-date coordination
  • Replacement guarantee (terms agreed per engagement)
NOT SURE WHICH MODEL FITS?

We'll Figure It Out Together

Most requirements have a clear best-fit model once we understand the role, timeline, and client relationship structure. Talk to us — we'll recommend the right approach and get your requirement moving.