Simple Tips for Working with Freelancers

Modern technology makes working with freelancers a very attractive option for lots of small businesses, but how can you make sure you get the most out of the process? The more you work with freelancers, the easier it will become, but with these simple tips, you can cut the learning curb and make sure you hit the ground running. 

Clear Guidelines

If a freelancer is going to do great work for you, then they need to understand what you want. Of course, this is partly the freelancer’s job, but if you’re setting out clear stylistic guidelines, then the chances are you’re going to get better results. The better you communicate what you’re looking for, the quicker and easier the process will be. To do this, you should have clear brand/content/stylistic guidelines.

Communication 

You might not need to be in constant contact with your freelancers, but you do need your communication to be clear and fast. When communication isn’t snappy, then time gets wasted, and this results in a lower standard of work. 

Technology can really help in this area, and if you want something that’s perfect for high-level communication, then there’s a great Slack competitor: Mattermost. You need to be able to communicate quickly and resolve problems, and often, the best way to do this is through a well-thought-out app, such as Mattermost. 

Clear Deadlines 

Having clear deadlines works for your freelancers, and it works for you. You need to have work done by a certain date, and they need clear deadlines they can work around, so be strong with this. 

You can always be flexible, but it’s important everyone knows where they stand and what’s expected of them. A good freelancer will be very deadline-oriented, so this shouldn’t be something you have problems with. 

Be upfront with your deadlines, and things will run much smoother because of it. 

Think About Intangibles 

The most important thing is that you get good work from your freelancers at a price that’s within your budget. However, there are more intangible qualities that you need to think of. 

If you’re getting good work from someone, but they’re a nightmare to work with, then this just isn’t a sustainable relationship. You want to find people who will work with you to create a relationship that works for everyone, and this is something you want to factor in when you’re making your hiring decisions. 

Paid Trial 

This isn’t always possible depending on what you’re hiring a freelancer for, but if possible, it’s a good idea to do a paid trial. 

A paid trial gives you the opportunity to see what it’s like working with someone and get a good idea of the quality of work you can expect. It’s easy for someone to look good on paper and not necessarily follow through with their standard of work, so a trial can help you make a more informed decision. 

It might cost you a little extra in the short-term, but it can save you in the long run.