If you’re new to outsourcing, you want to be sure you choose someone to complete the job that is qualified. There are several things you need to look for in this type of person, since you cannot make a face-to-face connection with them, and almost all of your communication with be via email or on the web. The first thing you can do is ask the person to provide you with a portfolio.
For example, if you’re in need of a graphic designer, have him or her send you some examples of the work they have done in the past for other companies. Another option is to give them a “test” example that has a quick turnaround time. This will allow them to prove to you their capabilities, as well as their ability to meet deadlines. How quick they respond also shows you how serious they are about assisting you, and how eager they are to do a good job.
For freelance writers you can ask someone to provide you with a few writing samples. Writing samples give you good insight into how well a person expresses his or her self. Read over the sample articles carefully so you can get a feel for how this person writes. If you feel like their style matches what you’re looking for, then odds are they will do a good job writing your web content or your SEO content that you need.
If you feel so inclined, you can also ask the person for references. Many people who freelance have been doing so for some time, and have probably built up a list of clients who can vouch for their work. References are a great way to ensure you’re getting someone who can do the job well.
If you are searching for freelance web coders, ask for a few examples of some sites they have done and what exactly it is that they accomplished for the site. If you are using one of the previously mentioned websites or another site, many of them have ratings on each freelancer. Previous completed projects are shown, as well as feedback from other people who have used them to do a job.
This can provide great insight on the person’s record, timeliness, and accuracy, as well as buyer satisfaction. It takes some time to build up positive feedback, so this is a good indicator of their track record as well. It is much like the feedback you see on eBay: it provides you with an inside look at how others have dealt with the person in the past on other jobs.
No freelancer you speak with should have any problems providing you with a record of their past work. They understand that this is how you will make a final decision on who you choose to complete the tasks you need to get done. If you feel any sense of doubt or hesitation, do not hire someone just because you may feel a little bit guilty.
Many times, freelancers get turned down for jobs, but they can always move on to another one. If you think the person is not capable of giving you the high quality of work you expect within a certain amount of time, politely let them know you have chosen someone else to finish the job, and move on to the next person.
Getting a freelance job is much like auditioning for a part in a play. The person must show their skills and talents to you, and then you as the director has to make a final decision based on what you see. It also depends on the type of work you need done. For example, you cannot afford errors when it comes to getting some coding done for your website. An ebook or content provider may not need to have as stringent guidelines.
Ultimately, the choice is up to you, so review all work carefully. Ask for portfolios, writing samples, references, and even resumes, depending on the thoroughness of the job. You can usually tell who will do a good job for you, so follow your instincts and intuition.
Think of using someone in outsourcing just like hiring someone to work in your office. You want them to be honest, trustworthy, accurate, and efficient. Only you can make this final call, but by using the various resources and websites available for freelancers, you have a better chance at finding someone you really want to use time and time again.
Remember that you can always just use people for one small project and then move on to someone else if you’re not happy with the results or the work. In outsourcing, nothing is written in stone in regards to the buyer. You are in control, since you set the budget, the requirements, and the needs you have in regards to what it will take to get the job done.
The Internet is full of extremely talented, gifted, and organized people who have a real passion for what they do. You might choose one person for a job, and then move on to a different person for the same or similar job later down the line. Outsourcing is great because you do not have to be tied down to one person to do the jobs you need done. It’s a wonderful way to network and find new talent as well. Use the outsourcing websites to make contacts and get together a team of virtual employees who can help you get things finished while freeing up your time to focus on other things.
As a business owner, you already have a definite goal in mind. Use your goals to project that same attitude onto the freelancers you choose, so they fully understand what it is you need completed. Look for people with a positive and friendly attitude, and people who respond to your communications on a fairly quick basis.
Those who can keep to deadlines are those you will want to keep for a longer period of time. Make connections, and ask those you hire to do jobs for referrals for other assignments. They may know someone else who can assist you with other goals such as graphic design or ebooks.
Next Chapter: What Should be Included in a Project?
- The Internet Marketer’s Guide to Outsourcing Your Business
- Outsourcing as an Investment
- The Best Places to Outsource
- A List of Things You Can Outsource
- What to Look for in a Freelancer, Ghost-Writer, Designer, etc.
- What Should be Included in a Project?
- Ways to get Your Project at a Cheaper Price
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