Outsourcing Tips: Finding the Right Professionals for the Job.
In business, time is of the essence. There’s no negotiating that. However, fact of the matter is: finding the time to handle every aspect of your business can be quite a difficult, even impossible task. There is no shame in admitting that you don’t necessarily know everything, or are able to do everything when it comes to your business. Sometimes you need help, from mentor, marketing coach, or even outsourcing to a freelancer.
Remember: there are particular aspects of your business that aren’t really as important as the others. As it is, you should learn the art of delegation—and outsource less important tasks to other able-bodied people, who of course, actually know what to do.
Various businesses—from small to large ones—are now making use of outsourcing as a way to reap more benefits. With such strategy, they are able to focus their efforts on the aspects that are worth giving attention to, while still ensure that every small detail of their campaigns or ventures is handled as properly as it should be.
To make things clearer—let’s discuss some tips about outsourcing and see if it can really help make your business succeed:
Tip #1: Measure Your Business and Set Priority Tasks
Before you go and start outsourcing jobs to people overseas—you should first have a clear grasp as to what business tasks or activities are most important to you, or bring the most benefits to your business.
Study your business operations extensively and separate the more important activities from the others. By doing so, you’ll be able to determine which activities can be outsourced and those which you should handle yourself.
Again take note: the purpose of outsourcing is to give you more time to focus on those activities that will make your business better. Accordingly, this can only be done if you are able to know the ins and outs of your business, and set priority tasks as needed.
Tip #2: Make Your Job Posting Clear and Understandable
In order to find the right people to help you out—you will need to create a clear and defined job posting that explains the things that you really need.
Make things simple—but as detailed as possible. Are you looking for a web developer? If so, make sure to state the programming languages that you’ll need (html, JavaScript, CSS, etc.).
If you’re looking for a virtual assistant, make sure to include the expected tasks that he or she will be regularly undertaking, whether it may be content writing, link-building, spreadsheet completion, etc.
Remember: the key to effective outsourcing lies in the details. By giving people a clear description of what you need—then you’ll be able to avoid any unnecessary hitches or glitches along the way. Accordingly, this will likewise help you find the right person who has the required skills (and who can actually provide you with the help you need).
Tip #3: Use the Proper Platforms
There are actually quite a number of job portals that can help you find the right outsourced contractor. Examples are:
- Upwork (formerly Elance and oDesk) – Get more done by hiring freelancers.
- Fiverr – Freelance Services for the lean entrepreneur. Get inspired to build and grow your business on your budget terms.
- Guru.com – Hire quality Freelancers for the job you need done now.
- Freelancer.com – Find an expert to match your needs.
- And there are many others out there too – there’s a Freelancer waiting for you that will fit your outsourcing requirements.
Note: these platforms have different rates and requirements both for employers and contractors. As it is, you might want to inspect their terms and conditions first before proceeding—and pick the one which would be most feasible for you.
One more thing: there are also companies who are willing to provide outsourced services as needed. So, you might also want to take a look at what they offer first before going further.
Tip #4: Never Underestimate the Power of Interview
After you’ve seen your candidates’ portfolio, the next (and very important) part of the outsourcing process is the interview.
Don’t be afraid to ask the “hard” questions. Ask them about their experience or expertise. If a candidate claims to be an expert on a particular programming language—test it out. If you’re looking for a writer—ask for articles, books or blog posts that he or she has written.
Remember: it is your right to test the candidates’ skills and expertise. After all, you’ll be the one who’ll be paying at the end of the day. As it is, you must exert time and effort to find that suitable candidate who’ll be able to provide you with needed services—and not headaches.
Do you agree with these outsourcing principles? Do you know other outsourcing platforms that people can use to find the right professionals for their respective business campaigns? If so, please don’t hesitate to share them with us by commenting below.
