Taking the first steps toward outsourcing can be time-consuming. Nevertheless, figuring out how to build your business with help from outside professionals offers efficiency and greater returns. It is important to know when to outsource and how to gain full advantage from it. Here are the top 3 questions you need to ask before you even embrace the idea of Outsourcing:
1. When is the Right Time to Outsource?
The right time to outsource is different for every company. Some companies require outsourcing to remove unnecessary costs and make back-office operations more efficient. Others need to outsource because they are growing too fast and need outside help to undertake new projects that don’t warrant full-time employees.
Scenarios vary but one thing is constant: outsourcing allows companies to focus on what matters by reinvesting where they will make the most impact. When you and your in-house employees are unable to manage the day-to-day business of your company and build the business satisfactorily, it may be time to consider outsourcing. Finding an outsourcing partner makes a lot of sense and can allow you to focus on your core offering, scale your operations, create additional services/products, and even get more business at a fraction of the cost.
2. What Should I Outsource?
Outsourcing is the key strategy businesses turn to when they want to alleviate the burden of repetitive and time-consuming tasks. No matter what industry you’re in, there is always more work to be done and less time to do them.
If you’re considering outsourcing and don’t know where to start, begin by evaluating your day-to-day tasks: which ones do you usually procrastinate at, which ones are you good at, and which ones do you think someone else could do better. Take a hard look at your business and determine your strengths and values. Some of the common tasks that get outsourced includes administrative work, lead generation, and digital marketing. These are all activities that are necessary for most businesses but could be easily and affordably outsourced so you can focus on the more important tasks.
It can be tough to relinquish control on some aspects of your business. You might fear that an outsourced team can’t do the task at hand better than you or an in-house team, but when the right person and systems are put in place you can invest your newfound time in tasks that can bring more money into the business.
3. Who Do I Outsource To?
Before handing over the reins, be sure you’re working with the right partner. A good starting place is your own network; perhaps ask other colleagues or business owners if they can recommend a provider offering the services you need. In the absence of a good recommendation from your personal network, there are other options. You can vet from your connections online like LinkedIn or simply ask Maquiraya and Associates, Inc.
Whether you use a web-based marketplace, a personal referral, or a personalized matchmaking consultant, the key to identifying the right contractor is to know exactly what you’re looking for. Communicate your expectations and the performance metrics that are relevant to you. An open and clear conversation with potential contractors regarding these aspects could make it or break it.