Outsourcing can be just what your business needs, but without the right plan in place you could end up finding all the wrong people. Finding the right people for the job is just as hard as hiring the right people in-house. The difference is that the jobs are shorter and are often more important to get right the first time.
Outsourcing and virtual teams are an excellent option for small businesses that need help but don’t have a considerable budget for full-time staff. As a business owner, you know that you can always benefit from additional help in tasks like customer service, marketing, and sales. Many business owners are hesitant to outsource and let a third party handle things they typically do themselves. But outsourcing and remote teams are actually a fantastic option for small businesses looking to scale and grow.
It’s easy to outsource, but finding the best remote workers for your needs can be tricky. If you’re ready to start outsourcing, here are the tips you need to improve your outsourcing criteria and get started.
Have a List of Priorities
There are two types of jobs you will typically outsource for. The first is a short-term job that has a clear end. This is usually project-based and is easy to hire because it is always going to be more cost-effective than hiring someone full-time in order to do a part-time job.
The second type is to outsource a service. This lasts until you end it. You can outsource your SEO or IT needs and keep them going until you find a better option, hire in-house instead, or have to stop for budget constraints.
In both instances, you will want to have a list of priorities for each job. This can be what features you want on your website, or it could be what services you need to be included in your bundle. Having a priority list can make finding the right people for the job easier.
Go Through an Agency
Agencies that find, vet, train, and quality control their developers or other professionals are always going to offer a higher level of service when you first start outsourcing. A great way to find the best remote NodeJS developers, for example, is to click here. These developers have been vetted, trained, and partnered with managers so that you get the best possible service and results every time. While you can absolutely find someone who works as an individual that offers great results it is rare to find one that offers the skills you want and the professionalism you need at the price point you can afford.
Going through an agency ensures a higher standard and gives you improved customer service, making it the ideal option for when you have a specific, short-term job you need to be done right.
Understand There Will Be a Probation Period
Just as there is a probation period for in-house employees there is also a grace period for new outsourced work. Aim to be as clear as possible and work together to create a great relationship that works for both of you. Sometimes a web developer won’t be a good fit for you, other times you just have to get over one small hurdle to enjoy a great professional relationship. Don’t immediately judge a job based on the first week of work, as everyone is learning and you also need to improve your communication to help explain your needs and wants.
Audit for Value
If you think that the remote workers you outsource your needs to are offering a great job then stay. If you think they are starting to drop in quality and value it is time to audit them and see if there are better options. Don’t immediately assume there will be, sometimes prices increase because inflation makes it essential. Always audit to ensure you are getting the best value out of your outsourcing.
