Employees usually do work that is an integral part of their employer's business. Independent contractors provide peripheral services. Employees usually do the work themselves. Independent contractors may send a substitute. Employees are usually provided with assistants by their employers.
Independent contractors hire assistants themselves.
Employees work for their employer on a regular basis, usually every business day. Independent contractors work at irregular intervals as there is work to do. Hours of work. Employees usually have set hours of work. Independent contractors control their own work time.