Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their very own.
Over the previous few days, I have been pleasantly stunned at a rise in productiveness and “good work” by my newly employed COO. I should not be stunned, however I’m. See, prior to now, I’ve employed low-cost labor to do “duties,” like video modifying, weblog writing, graphic design and extra.
Many people small enterprise house owners hire freelancers to assist fill within the gaps in our day-to-day enterprise wants, and that is good. Nonetheless, there is a tragic mistake many people are making.
Freelance expertise, or “virtual assistants,” can solely take us thus far. In some unspecified time in the future, you get bored with answering all of the questions, correcting the errors and pondering of all of the concepts. You get bored with being the visitors cop within the heart of every little thing. It is advisable to work ON your small business and never simply IN your small business.
By means of my mastermind group, I spotted I wanted to uplevel my sport and make investments extra in higher-skilled expertise.
Hiring somebody within the Philippines for $7-$10 an hour is a fairly good hourly price for them. Nonetheless, at that price, the digital assistant is usually simply task-focused.
I tripled the speed and began to search for a COO, somebody who got here with a better degree of not solely expertise however THINKING as effectively. They’re nonetheless from the Philippines, however their enterprise expertise and skillset are way more superior.
I wanted somebody who might assist me develop my enterprise, not simply do duties. So, I began to search for a “thought companion,” an “integrator.” This time period comes from Traction: Get a Grip on Your Enterprise by Gino Wickman, a well-liked guide that many entrepreneurs learn.
In a single day, I seen a distinction. The duties I assigned weren’t solely getting performed however had been getting performed with a distinct, greater degree of thoroughness.
So, what are some key ideas you can use to rent the right freelancer or digital assistant to assist your small business?
Associated: 6 Mistakes Smart People Make When Hiring a Virtual Assistant
1. Craft an in depth job description
Earlier than you begin your search, create a complete job description. Define particular obligations, required expertise and anticipated outcomes. This readability will appeal to extra appropriate candidates and set the inspiration for a profitable working relationship.
2. Outline clear success metrics
How will you already know in case your new rent is performing effectively? Set up concrete, measurable objectives from the outset. Whether or not it is assembly deadlines, reaching high quality requirements or hitting particular KPIs, having clear success metrics will assist each you and your freelancer keep aligned.
3. Perceive your work model, and discover a match
Each enterprise proprietor has a singular means of working. Do you like frequent check-ins or a extra hands-off method? Are you detail-oriented or targeted on the large image? Be trustworthy about your work style, and search for freelancers whose method enhances yours.
4. Suppose long-term
Whereas you’ll have fast wants, take into account your small business’s future progress when hiring. Search for freelancers who can probably develop along with your firm and tackle expanded obligations as your small business evolves.
5. Keep away from the “jack of all trades” lure
It is tempting to seek for a unicorn who can do every little thing, however this method typically results in disappointment. As an alternative, give attention to discovering specialists who excel in particular areas essential to your small business wants.
Associated: 4 Ways to Hire and Keep the Best Freelancers
6. Assess ability necessities
Consider whether or not the position requires high-level experience or if it includes duties that may be discovered on the job. This may show you how to decide the expertise degree to search for and the coaching you would possibly want to supply.
7. Prioritize perspective and character
Whereas technical expertise are vital, do not underestimate the worth of an ideal attitude and strong character. Search for freelancers who’re dependable, communicative and aligned along with your firm’s values. These traits typically matter greater than technical prowess in the long term.
8. Check the waters
Contemplate hiring two to 3 freelancers for a small mission or trial interval. This method means that you can consider their efficiency in real-world situations earlier than committing to a longer-term association.
9. Be open to enter
Keep in mind that freelancers and digital assistants typically convey priceless expertise from working with numerous shoppers. Be open to their suggestions and insights — they may introduce revolutionary options or efficiencies you have not thought of.
Associated: Hiring a Virtual Assistant? Watch Out for These Red Flags
10. Preserve common communication
Do not rely solely on e mail for communication. Schedule common video calls or conferences to debate progress, tackle challenges and keep a robust working relationship. This face-to-face time, even when digital, can considerably enhance collaboration and outcomes.
Bear in mind, the purpose isn’t just to fill a place, however to seek out companions who can contribute to your organization’s progress and success.