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Over the previous few days, I have been pleasantly shocked at a rise in productiveness and “good work” by my newly employed COO. I should not be shocked, however I’m. See, up to now, I’ve employed low-cost labor to do “duties,” like video enhancing, weblog writing, graphic design and extra.
Many people small enterprise house owners rent freelancers to assist fill within the gaps in our day-to-day enterprise wants, and that is good. Nevertheless, there is a tragic mistake many people are making.
Freelance expertise, or “digital assistants,” can solely take us up to now. Sooner or later, 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 site visitors cop within the heart of all the pieces. You should work ON your corporation and never simply IN your corporation.
By my mastermind group, I spotted I wanted to uplevel my recreation and make investments extra in higher-skilled expertise.
Hiring somebody within the Philippines for $7-$10 an hour is a reasonably good hourly price for them. Nevertheless, at that price, the digital assistant is commonly 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 rather more superior.
I wanted somebody who may 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 preferred ebook that many entrepreneurs learn.
In a single day, I observed a distinction. The duties I assigned weren’t solely getting completed however have been getting completed with a distinct, increased degree of thoroughness.
So, what are some key ideas you should use to rent the proper freelancer or digital assistant to assist your corporation?
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1. Craft an in depth job description
Earlier than you begin your search, create a complete job description. Define particular duties, required expertise and anticipated outcomes. This readability will appeal to extra appropriate candidates and set the muse for a profitable working relationship.
2. Outline clear success metrics
How will you recognize in case your new rent is performing effectively? Set up concrete, measurable objectives from the outset. Whether or not it is assembly deadlines, attaining high quality requirements or hitting particular KPIs, having clear success metrics will assist each you and your freelancer keep aligned.
3. Perceive your work type, and discover a match
Each enterprise proprietor has a singular means of working. Do you favor frequent check-ins or a extra hands-off strategy? Are you detail-oriented or targeted on the large image? Be sincere about your work type, and search for freelancers whose strategy enhances yours.
4. Assume long-term
Whereas you’ll have rapid wants, contemplate your corporation’s future progress when hiring. Search for freelancers who can probably develop along with your firm and tackle expanded duties as your corporation evolves.
5. Keep away from the “jack of all trades” lure
It is tempting to seek for a unicorn who can do all the pieces, however this strategy usually results in disappointment. As an alternative, concentrate on discovering specialists who excel in particular areas essential to your corporation wants.
Associated: 4 Methods to Rent and Hold the Finest Freelancers
6. Assess talent necessities
Consider whether or not the position requires high-level experience or if it includes duties that may be realized on the job. This may make it easier to decide the expertise degree to search for and the coaching you would possibly want to supply.
7. Prioritize angle and character
Whereas technical expertise are vital, do not underestimate the worth of an incredible angle and robust character. Search for freelancers who’re dependable, communicative and aligned along with your firm’s values. These traits usually matter greater than technical prowess in the long term.
8. Check the waters
Take into account hiring two to a few freelancers for a small undertaking or trial interval. This strategy means that you can consider their efficiency in real-world eventualities earlier than committing to a longer-term association.
9. Be open to enter
Keep in mind that freelancers and digital assistants usually deliver beneficial expertise from working with varied shoppers. Be open to their recommendations and insights — they could introduce progressive options or efficiencies you have not thought-about.
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10. Keep common communication
Do not rely solely on e-mail for communication. Schedule common video calls or conferences to debate progress, deal with challenges and preserve a robust working relationship. This face-to-face time, even when digital, can considerably enhance collaboration and outcomes.
Keep in mind, the objective isn’t just to fill a place, however to search out companions who can contribute to your organization’s progress and success.