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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, up 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 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 thus far. Sooner or later, you get uninterested in answering all of the questions, correcting the errors and pondering of all of the concepts. You get uninterested in being the site visitors cop within the middle of all the pieces. You should work ON your corporation and never simply IN your corporation.
By means of my mastermind group, I noticed 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 fairly 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 the next stage of not solely expertise however THINKING as nicely. They’re nonetheless from the Philippines, however their enterprise expertise and skillset are rather more superior.
I wanted somebody who might assist me develop my enterprise, not simply do duties. So, I began to search for a “thought accomplice,” an “integrator.” This time period comes from Traction: Get a Grip on Your Enterprise by Gino Wickman, a well-liked e-book that many entrepreneurs learn.
In a single day, I seen a distinction. The duties I assigned weren’t solely getting achieved however had been getting achieved with a distinct, larger stage of thoroughness.
So, what are some key suggestions you can use to rent the correct 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 entice extra appropriate candidates and set the inspiration for a profitable working relationship.
2. Outline clear success metrics
How will in case your new rent is performing nicely? Set up concrete, measurable targets 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 type, and discover a match
Each enterprise proprietor has a novel method of working. Do you favor frequent check-ins or a extra hands-off strategy? Are you detail-oriented or centered on the massive image? Be sincere about your work type, and search for freelancers whose strategy enhances yours.
4. Suppose long-term
Whereas you might have quick wants, take into account your corporation’s future development when hiring. Search for freelancers who can doubtlessly develop together 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 a substitute, give attention to 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 discovered on the job. It will make it easier to decide the expertise stage to search for and the coaching you would possibly want to offer.
7. Prioritize perspective and character
Whereas technical expertise are essential, do not underestimate the worth of an amazing perspective and robust character. Search for freelancers who’re dependable, communicative and aligned together with your firm’s values. These traits usually matter greater than technical prowess in the long term.
8. Check the waters
Think about hiring two to 3 freelancers for a small undertaking or trial interval. This strategy lets you consider their efficiency in real-world situations earlier than committing to a longer-term association.
9. Be open to enter
Do not forget that freelancers and digital assistants usually convey invaluable expertise from working with varied purchasers. Be open to their strategies and insights — they could introduce revolutionary options or efficiencies you have not thought-about.
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10. Preserve 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 powerful working relationship. This face-to-face time, even when digital, can considerably enhance collaboration and outcomes.
Keep in mind, the aim is not only to fill a place, however to search out companions who can contribute to your organization’s development and success.
