Your business is growing and it’s all because of you. Even if you have done everything entirely yourself so far you really do need to consider outsourcing. Some, however, find this difficult. Why is this and how can you outsource successfully?
What is outsourcing?
First of all, let us look at the definition of outsourcing.
To contract work out. To obtain goods or services from an outside service.
By those standards you already are outsourcing. Did you build your computer yourself (ok so maybe you did clever clogs but did you mine the copper for the wiring?) Did you build your own desk and chair? No, you outsourced to obtain these products. We all outsource in our personal life too, what about haircuts? meals out? car repairs? these are all services that we successfully outsource.
Why should you outsource?
If you are quite a clever person and skilled not only at your job but other things too, you might feel that you are the best person for each job in your business. You probably are, but the saying is “You can do anything, but not everything”. What will happen if you continue to try doing everything yourself now your business is getting so busy?
Your business will suffer, you might get burnout, your family life might suffer, your health might deteriorate. And think too of why you decided to start up your own business in the first place. Wasn’t it just to avoid exactly those things?
Another reason some do not like outsourcing is they feel they have been let down before. This may be the case, but don’t let that put you off, try these tactics and have another go.
Choose the right company or person
You need to choose the right company or person for the job. The chances are the first place you are going to look is Google, but just because a company comes at the top of that list does not mean they are the best person for the job. It does mean they have a good SEO expert though.
Ask around. If you know people in similar businesses to yours, ask who they use. They will be flattered that you asked.
Try looking at Social Media. You are most likely making full use of Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+ and probably some others. Do a search, look through your current followers or look closer at people you currently chat to regularly. Can you see someone there who might be able to help or point you in the right direction? Let’s face it, it would be nice to find a company or person who you know, like and trust and this is a good place to find them.
Start with smaller tasks
Try out the company or person with small tasks first and evaluate their performance. Was the job done on time? Did they communicate well? If a price was given did they stick to it? Can you see ways that they can help you more as your business grows? You might want to try out more than one company or person for these smaller tasks to see how they compare.
Give clear instructions
Be clear in your instructions. Both you and the company or person should know what is expected including how often progress reports are to be made, a timeline/deadline and agreed cost. Put these in writing if only briefly.
There also needs to be an understanding of how much can be left to the discretion of the company or person doing the job or any guidelines that you want them to work within.
Information
Be sure to provide all information needed, this will save time and money in the long run and means you will not be receiving messages asking for this. Although it may be difficult to share some information, the more you can communicate to the designated company or person, the better job they can do.
Communicate with others
Take a moment to consider whether you may need to make known to other businesses or people the arrangements that you have made.
Do not micro-manage
Once you have outsourced the task do not try to micro-manage it. No two people do the same job exactly the same way. It is the results that matter. If you have a technique that you think can speed up the process be sure to offer some advice but if the company or person is achieving the expected results do not insist they take it.
Review performance
Once the job is completed review the work done. Even when you have been outsourcing to the same company or person for some time always make random checks. This will help you stay in control and keep standards up.
Relax and enjoy the benefits of outsourcing
Once you have chosen a company or business you will find you have more time for your family, the work you enjoy and actually get paid for and you will be able to expand your business. You may even have a little extra time to enjoy other activities or sports that you have temporarily put on hold.
Benefit too from looking at the company or person you have outsourced to. They have may use different processes, systems or programmes to achieve the same results as you. Do not see this as a fault, look to see if you can learn anything from them that could help your business.
How I can help
If you are reading this, the chances are you may be thinking of outsourcing or will be doing so at some point in the future. I provide a typing service for help with blogs, newsletters, emails and social media posts, all the things essential for marketing your business. By dictating these on your smartphone voice recorder you can get that work done in a quarter of the time, leaving you more time for the work you actually get paid for. If you work alone it is an extra person “in your corner” too.
Let’s chat on 07974 701526 or email lizthewhiz@lizthewhiz.co.uk to see how I can help your business.
FREEDOM TO GET LOST IN THE WORK YOU LOVE
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