Five Steps to Successful Outsourcing for Sole Traders
Outsourcing can let you focus on the things you love doing in your business, while someone else gets on with the less interesting bits, but you need to know how to find the right outsourced help to meet the needs of your business. Here’s how in 5 simple steps…
#1 – Ask a lot of questions
If you are going to be working with someone, you need to make sure that their processes and attitude to work meet your own criteria. Finding the right outsourcing team should be just like interviewing a potential employee. Ask about experience, availablity, turnaround times, and what their policy is if they make a mistake.
#2 – Ask for sample work or references
A portfolio of some kind will give you a better idea of the quality and style of their work. It is an essential step in deciding if someone is suitable. If examples of past projects are not available, ask for references or case studies of past clients. Knowing what other people thought of their work could be a deciding factor.
You may think you know what has been agreed in a meeting, but setting out an agreement on paper ensures that everyone is clear on what is expected. A contract doesn’t have to be formal, but it should at the very least detail the project, state the goals and expectations and include other important points such as costs. If in doubt, ask a qualified legal professional for advice.
#4 – Set a trial period
Test the water with a small project first, or agree on a probationary period. This should be written into the contract. By doing this, if a partnership does not seem right, you do not gel professionally or it just “isn’t working out”, your commitment to them is minimal.
#5 – Respect your outsource team
By treating people fairly, and with respect, you are more likely to foster a stronger working relationship. This bond is important to the ongoing success of your business. Build trust, encourage good relations, and always keep to your word.
Your outsourcing team can be an invaluable resource and play a key part in the success of your business – but you have to get it right. If you are looking to outsource your office work, give us a call and we’ll happily answer your questions and help you outsource your admin.