Scientists claim that the worst feeling in the world is despair, however, we can confidently tell you that having to request multiple revisions on a project executed by a freelancer is worse than despair.
The rise of the freelance economy has been hailed by many as one of the most profound developments of this age. However, the amazing nature of the gig-business doesn’t preclude mishaps from occurring. Taking a cue from Murphy’s law which tells us that anything that could go wrong will eventually go wrong, our best bet is to put strategies in place to minimize the chances of a bad experience.
Bad Freelance Experience – Whose Fault?
The conventional marketplace has certain rules and regulation which we’ve all become accustomed to. However, freelancing follows an entirely different set of rules. For example, “The customer is always right” doesn’t apply here. Because, in reality, who really is the customer? Also, like you might’ve figured out, Customer isn’t King either.
One proverb that aptly defines the spirit of freelancing is, “It takes two to tango”. Success is more of a collective effort than an individual one. Because of the complexities surrounding doing business online, it can be difficult to be in sync and this ultimately hampers the outcome of the project.
However, this isn’t a reason to throw your hands in the air and conclude that freelancing is doomed to fail, because it isn’t. Millions of people have had significant success on several freelancing platforms, either providing service or hiring skilled professionals for projects. We have closely analyzed the steps taken to ensure success and we shall discuss in detail how you can efficiently increase productivity when working with a freelancer.
Steps to Success with a Freelancer
Working with a freelancer, if not done right, could make you do even more work than you would have done handling the task yourself. To avoid this, carefully consider these steps:
1. Go through the reviews
2. Ensure proper vetting before you hire
3. Have a draft of your expectations before you proceed
4. Set up channels that ensure smooth and regular communication
5. Set ground rules and enforce them
Now, we’ll go into detail.
1. Go Through the Reviews of the Freelancer
This is the only way by which you can have a proper idea of the person you’re looking to work with. The internet is so amazing; with a simple Google search, you can get so much information on anyone you want. Apart from Google, it is also possible to view reviews given to freelancers on the freelance platform. Going over the reviews will let you know the strengths and weaknesses of the individual and this will ensure that you make an informed decision.
2. Go Over the Terms and Conditions
How much are you looking to spend? What’s the maximum amount you can afford to offer? How long do you want the project to last? Do you have a little wiggle room? Are you strict on the expectations? What time would you like to be contacted? How would you like to be contacted? The same way a business will never hire an employee without providing terms and conditions, don’t make the mistake of skipping this step.
3. Have a Draft of Your Expectations Before You Proceed
How many times have you had a beautiful idea in your mind but no matter how hard you tried, you just couldn’t put it into words? Well, if you can’t even come up with a mock draft, it would be way more difficult for anyone else to understand what you want precisely. Remember that even the best of magicians require something from you to work with, no matter how small.
If you have a writing project, it’s advisable to provide the freelancer with a sample of a previous project or an example you found online. If it’s for the design of a website, there should be other websites you can point to. Graphics design? Send a rough sketch to the freelancer. This way, both parties have well-defined expectations and it is easier to deliver.
4. Set Up Channels That Ensure Smooth and Regular Communications
This is one mistake we all make; we just give the freelancer details of what we want and we disappear into thin air, hoping that the job will get done perfectly without any adjustments. Freelancing is synonymous with driving a car on the highway; the steering needs to be turned a little just to ensure that things are on track. Failure to do this can be catastrophic.
5. Set up Ground Rules and Enforce Them
Do you need regular updates on the project twice daily? Then let the other party know. Are there certain rules that you have as regards how the project should unfold? Do not hesitate to share it. Managing a freelancer can be hard if there are no rules to work by. However, you should also endeavour to treat the freelancer like a partner and respect their suggestions.
Conclusion
The idea of freelancing is truly innovative; it broke down the barriers to doing business online and solved a ton of problems associated with on-demand skills. However, an innovative solution by itself doesn’t translate to productivity or efficiency, unless you know the right steps to follow.
The truth is that freelancers can be the best thing to happen to your business, but if they are hired wrongly, they can be a liability to your company. TERAWORK is here to make sure you minimize cost, increase productivity, and focus your time on more important matters.
