During the pandemic many small businesses had to rapidly digitise their operations, leveraging the skills of specialists to manage their digital marketing, website build or graphic design to meet shifting consumer needs, writes Peggy de Lange, VP of International Expansion at Fiverr
While the need for these skills is clear, small businesses may not need or be able to afford a full-time staff member. Instead, engaging freelance talent could bolster business success and growth outcomes.
Freelancers bring expertise as needed
Small businesses are increasingly looking to operate at the leanest, most efficient version of themselves, fuelling a rapid rise in the use of skilled freelancers. Unlike hiring a new full-time employee, freelance agreements give small businesses the flexibility to access high-level expertise as needed, without taking on any long term overheads.
At the same time, more Australians are choosing to build a career as freelancers, giving small businesses access to a vast pool of specialist talent that they are not able to bring in-house. According to research commissioned by Fiverr, one in three Australians are considering going freelance in 2021, as businesses strategically embrace freelance talent to solve skills and resourcing gaps to drive projects forward.
This shift provides the opportunity for small businesses to quickly bolster their workforce as needed. And unlike hiring a new employee, engaging a freelancer can take hours not weeks, meaning businesses can reach their goals sooner. But like any successful business relationship, working with freelancers requires trust and good communication.
5 ways small businesses can successfully tap into freelance talent
1. Start strong by onboarding like a pro
To get the most out of a freelance arrangement both sides must be clear on their goals, objectives and expectations. As the client, putting in the extra effort upfront to clearly outline the brief will ultimately save time and build a win-win relationship.
Be specific about the task you want to be completed: outline the key deliverables, milestones, availability and other requirements.
Ask questions upfront to clarify their ability, experience and turn around times. Also, consider asking your freelancer if they have any questions about the project, this is a great way to make sure you are both on the same page about what you are trying to achieve.
Starting with a small task or pilot project is a great way to test the water before going too far down the freelance path.
2. Consider your budget
The budget for a freelance project should take into consideration what your business can feasibly spend, as well as the market-rate for the service. Familiarise yourself with how much different services cost by asking for referrals or researching on Google or freelance platforms like Fiverr.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate. If you can guarantee a steady stream of work, a freelancer may reduce their rate for ongoing work.
To determine if a freelance project is good value, consider if you can quantify the benefits it will bring to your business and ask, what is the cost if you don’t act?
3. Bring your communication skills to the table
Skills and budget aren’t the only things that make a project successful. Good communication is the secret behind any project that runs smoothly. While it may be tempting to send off your requirements and wait for the results, projects will often require back-and-forth discussion. Encourage two-way communication and give feedback when needed – but don’t micromanage!
Treat your freelancer like a partner. Ask what they think or recommend as they may have more value they can bring to your business or a more streamlined way of doing things.
Showing your appreciation for a job well done is just as important for freelancers as full-time staff. Positive reinforcement, as well as paying invoices promptly, will lift motivation and ultimately improve results for the business.
4. Refine your workflow
Technology has made it easier for freelancers and small businesses to connect and work together across different cities or even time zones. However, working with someone outside your organisation can present new challenges.
Will they be using your own internal systems? Do they need access to information or resources that are held inside the organisation? Mapping out the workflow behind each project and the collaboration tools needed to complete the task can prevent any frustration caused by crossed-wires or missed emails.
It can be helpful to ask upfront: what is your preferred method of communication? Or how do you like to work? What do you need from me?
5. Share your workplace culture
As a small business owner, you might be concerned that a freelancer won’t be as invested in the work as your full-time staff. While they may not be in the office every day, sharing your company culture with a freelancer helps align them with your goals to deliver the best results time and time again.
When a freelancer understands your purpose, the story behind the business and the obstacles you’ve faced as an entrepreneur they will be more invested in the business and the work they deliver.
Share your workplace culture with freelancers by making them part of your team. For example, invite long term freelancers to company events and let them know when they have contributed to a business goal or milestone.
Speed to value
The right freelancers can help your business grow quickly, allowing you to plug skills gaps and bring expertise and experience into your business with a lower level of risk than hiring. Developing these relationships can turn into a competitive advantage that will allow your small business punch above its weight to delight your customers.
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