Sometimes, if you want something done right, you need to seek outside help. These external experts can present incredible value to your business. Businesses across the world have already embraced the benefits of outsourcing; roughly 54% of companies use some form of third-party assistance to reach their customers. In the US alone, approximately 300,000 jobs per year get outsourced outside the nation.
If you’re about to jump on the outsourcing bandwagon, there are a few key things you’ll want to do and a few things you’ll want to avoid.
Do: Compare Platforms
To find the best talent for your business, we recommend comparing outsourcing platforms. From Upwork to Fiverr to Freelancer.com, there are several websites you can use to connect with professionals from various industries all around the globe. Each one has their own pros and cons; some offer free memberships while others offer more user-friendly interfaces that are a bit easier to navigate. Be sure to do your research on these different platforms and experiment with them to see which ones suit your hiring needs.
Don’t: Rush Into Hiring
Oftentimes, urgency can take over during hiring processes. However, try your best to avoid rushing any hiring decisions when outsourcing your company’s work.
Doing so could potentially compromise the quality of work you receive. If you hastily hire a freelancer without thoroughly checking their credentials and their compatibility with your company, you could find that their work misses the mark. This could end up costing you more time and money in the long run.
Do: Request Samples
A great way of gauging a contractor’s experience is to review their past work. Whether you’re hoping to hire a copywriter, a graphic designer, or a video editor, ask to see some samples of their past work. This will give you an excellent insight into their work style and how well it aligns with your organizational goals. Most freelancers have online portfolios or websites showcasing their work, so getting this information should be a breeze. If not, you can ask candidates to complete sample tasks for you to assess their suitability for the job, but be sure you do it in the right way.
Don’t: Expect Free Labor
If you are going to request that a candidate complete a sample task during the hiring process, don’t expect them to do it for free. Just like you, freelancers are running their own businesses, and they should never be expected to give away any of their services for free. They deserve to be compensated for the work they do, even if it is just a trial task to assess their qualifications. Never ask a candidate or hired contractor to complete any work for free.
As the gig economy grows more prominent, more and more companies are outsourcing a portion of their operations to freelancers or contractors. If you’re about to be one of them, it’s vital that you follow these do’s and don’ts. If you do, you’ll not only prevent costly missteps but you’ll optimize the process overall and contribute to the betterment of your company
HR Future Staff Writer