How to Choose an Outsourcing Partner
Choosing an outsourcing partner is an important decision for any business enterprise. Whether the company needs a group of qualified workers, or just one individual to complete a short task, there are certain considerations that must be reviewed before choosing the right person or company. There is also the issue of security. For companies that have proprietary data or who may be launching new programs, the risk associated with outsourcing can be great. To provide a workable guide, however, we have compiled five points on how to choose an outsourcing partner.
First, understand your own objectives before outsourcing. Know what you need and when you need it. Write everything down and have a concrete plan so that you can hold the freelancer accountable, and so that you get what you thought you ordered. Once you have this information, when you interview potential candidates, you can quickly decide who is a good fit for you and your project.
Second, for individuals or small business owners, the best way to start is small. Find micro-
outsourcing sites that have no registration fees, and get started by posting jobs. The key word is "small". Do not outsource projects that are going to cost hundreds or thousands of dollars if you are not familiar with the freelancer or the system. Large companies can afford the loss should something happen, but, for hobbyists or part-time entrepreneurs, the costs of failed projects will be devastating. Remember that failed projects can include incompetence in the quality of the project, missed deadlines, and lost money due to having received nothing in return.
Third, although previous projects may be confidential, at least have the candidate outline the types of processes involved in past work. Along the same lines, look at his/her own projects to determine maturity and professionalism. Read comments made by others and the individual to ascertain whether the person seems to be competent and honest. Remember that young kids are on the internet and do not necessarily understand the importance of deadlines. Understanding the personality of the candidate will go a long way in helping to know how to choose an outsourcing partner.
Fourth, if the project is large enough to require more than one individual, then you need to know about the outsourcer's team. Does a team even exist? Can the team members work together to form a cohesive group? While you may not be permitted to meet the team personally, you should at the very least assign a small project that involves a little bit of all the functions, so that you can determine if the project is completed satisfactorily and on time.
Fifth, pertains to communication. Will the outsourcing partner be available during the time zone in which you need to ask questions? Does the outsourcer communicate effectively through standard channels? Remember that online conversations can tell you a lot about the outsourcing partner's working conditions. If the communication continually drops off, there is a problem with the internet connection, the person's equipment, or the person, himself. Any one of these issues is a huge problem for you.
Finally, if red flags appear, take them seriously. Understand that your instincts are probably correct, and that it is more effective for you to move on to another candidate than to try and make a poor situation work.