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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, prior to now, I’ve employed low cost labor to do “duties,” like video enhancing, weblog writing, graphic design and extra.
Many people small enterprise homeowners rent 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 “digital assistants,” can solely take us to this point. Sooner or later, you get uninterested in answering all of the questions, correcting the errors and considering of all of the concepts. You get uninterested in being the site visitors cop within the heart of all the things. You could work ON your enterprise and never simply IN your enterprise.
Via 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 reasonably good hourly charge for them. Nonetheless, at that charge, 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 degree of not solely abilities 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 accomplice,” an “integrator.” This time period comes from Traction: Get a Grip on Your Enterprise by Gino Wickman, a preferred e book that many entrepreneurs learn.
In a single day, I observed a distinction. The duties I assigned weren’t solely getting executed however had been getting executed with a unique, greater degree of thoroughness.
So, what are some key suggestions you can use to rent the correct freelancer or digital assistant to assist your enterprise?
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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 abilities 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 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 model, and discover a match
Each enterprise proprietor has a singular manner of working. Do you like frequent check-ins or a extra hands-off strategy? Are you detail-oriented or centered on the massive image? Be sincere about your work model, and search for freelancers whose strategy enhances yours.
4. Assume long-term
Whereas you will have rapid wants, contemplate your enterprise’s future development when hiring. Search for freelancers who can doubtlessly develop together with your firm and tackle expanded duties as your enterprise evolves.
5. Keep away from the “jack of all trades” lure
It is tempting to seek for a unicorn who can do all the things, however this strategy typically results in disappointment. As a substitute, give attention to discovering specialists who excel in particular areas essential to your enterprise wants.
Associated: 4 Methods to Rent and Preserve the Finest Freelancers
6. Assess talent necessities
Consider whether or not the position requires high-level experience or if it entails duties that may be realized on the job. This can provide help to decide the expertise degree to search for and the coaching you would possibly want to offer.
7. Prioritize perspective and character
Whereas technical abilities are vital, do not underestimate the worth of an amazing perspective and powerful character. Search for freelancers who’re dependable, communicative and aligned together 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 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 typically carry invaluable expertise from working with varied shoppers. Be open to their recommendations and insights — they could introduce revolutionary options or efficiencies you have not thought of.
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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, tackle 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 purpose is not only to fill a place, however to seek out companions who can contribute to your organization’s development and success.
