Outsourcing Success Secrets

[Ron Douglas]

I admit, I'm super lazy when it comes to time consuming tasks. After doing IM for 8 years, I have more cash than time. Therefore I try to outsource as much as possible. Like right now I have 6 outsourced projects going on at the same time (2 graphics jobs, 2 coding jobs, 1 ghostwriting job, and an ongoing traffic generation job).

Over time I've learned a few tips that can help you get your outsourcing jobs done to your expectations.

I'll post a few tips and if others join in, I'll add some more...

1) How responsive is the vendor? The most annoying thing for me is to select a vendor who takes days to get back to you with each communication. This can delay your project for weeks longer than it should take.

One of my criteria is, if the vendor can't get back to me within 12 hours, I move on to the next vendor. I always send out a message to the vendor prior to accepting their bid just to test their responsiveness. If they don't get back to you quickly when they're trying to win your business, it's going to be much worse when they get the job.

2) I require that the vendor has a Skype account or some type of Instant Message. I want to be able to contact the vendor on the spot if I need to. Being able to chat with them live is also more personal than email or private message and helps to build a relationship with them. You'd be surprised at how effective this is for getting results.

3) Be careful how you criticize people who are doing work for you and try to show sincere appreciation when possible. Just read "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Carnegie and you'll understand why this is so important.

I had to learn this the hard way. I used to think that being a demanding hard ass was the way to motivate people to get the job done right. In fact, it has the opposite effect. If you don't show some appreciation for their hard work, don't expect them to continue with your interest in mind. They will shut down and do the bear minimum to get paid and move on to the next job.

Criticism doesn't work well at all. If you want them to change something, it's best to phrase your reply like this for example:

"I can see that you're working hard on this and have much more expertise than I do which is why I'm glad I chose you. What I had in mind for this part of the project is a bit different. I'd like for it to be done this way..."

What tips can you share on outsourcing?

When others join in, I'll add some more...

[Kevin AKA Hubcap]

Here's a few more tips

1. Communication is key. Make sure they know what's expected of them. If it's a large project or a new free lancer periodically check their progress to make sure it meets your standards.

2. Don't pay everything upfront. Use some type of escrow service.

3. If possible start off with a small project. This allows you to iron out any communication problems you might have.

4. Think long term. Find a freelancer that delivers quality work who you can use time and time again. It probably won't be the cheapest one but in the long run will be the least costly.

Kevin

[ejfern22]

I agree that outsourcing is a big piece to having success online. In order to find the best people for your job/projects you should do an interview with them just like any other business when they hire new people. You can also ask for a resume and references as well and this is a great way to find the best people.

[siteflip]

I agree and had to learn the hard way !
I would also add the following:
As with everything else, you get what you pay for !
I have been "cheap" a few times and regretted it!

Go for the "120 jobs completed, 9.8 average" person, even if it means you pay double. Otherwise you'll actually end up paying triple! In time, money, sweat and tears.

Steve

[CurtisN]

And if your highering someone to write articals for you, how goodly is their English?

I'm constantly surprised at the crappy English of "ghostwriters" that I see here and there and even more surprised at the number of people who go to them for their content needs.

And don't expect good content when the person replies "eagerly awaiting to commence your project, sir" or something to that effect.

That's just my thoughts on outsourcing your content creation though. As for outsourcing in general, one tip would be to give bonuses. If you're doing the outsourcing, give a little extra cash as a pat on the back. If you're the service provider, give discounts or some extra stuff (e.g. extra articles, extra banners).

Curtis

[Andyhenry]

When you find someone who delivers on their commitments and does a good job for you - overpay them.

Reliable people who do a good job and stick to timescales are harder to find than you might think, so look after them and encourage that behavior.

Andy

[jaybaker]

I would recommend getting a back office or collaboration service such as vyew.com as it could be helpful in giving the freelancer a visual aide in conveying your ideas for the project.(No its not an affiliate link either)