HSH 103: How To Outsource

Have you been thinking of outsourcing, but not quite sure where to start? In this episode I’ll be talking about how you can outsource, so that you can take more off your plate and get more done. I’ll share the 3 places you can go to find someone to help you, and you’ll also hear the “3 C’s” of outsourcing!  

3 places to go

1. Referrals  

Referrals are the strongest way to find someone, because people will refer you to those freelancers they’ve been working with and trust. If you’re in the online space and have purchased a course, you’re probably already in one or two communities or private Facebook groups where you can get a good referral.  

2. Free Facebook communities  

In free groups you’ll most likely hear from people who will tell you they can do the work, so you’ll have to decide, usually be interviewing, if the person is a good fit or not.  

3. Craigslist or job boards  

I think this option is best used when you’re looking for in-person help, but it can work effectively for a virtual position as well. Job boards are also best for when it is an ongoing role you’re hiring for, and not a one-time task.  

You may have heard of the “Fast-Cheap-Good” concept. This just means that you can only have two of the three at one time. For example, you can get work that is fast and cheap, but it won’t good quality.  

The 3 C’s of outsourcing  

1. Clarity  

Clarity is understanding what it is you need in order to outsource effectively. You’ll need to get clear on what it is that you want someone to come into your business and do.  

A common problem I see people having is that they hire someone and bring the person in before knowing what work to give him or her. Not only is this a waste of your money, but it also frustrates the new hire and they won’t be likely to stay with you long-term.  

The easiest way to get clarity is to sit down and write a list of things you’re working on that you don’t love doing and could easily hand off to someone else. I started with management of my email inbox, and then moved on to outsourcing customer support.  

2. Control  

You need to let go of the control that you want to have! This can be easier said than done, but if you micromanage someone you hire, in the end you won’t save any time.  

3. Communication  

I think of communication as a combination of clarity and control. Once you’re clear on what you want, you need to make sure you communicate it to your freelancer or virtual assistant. Unfortunately, a lot of people are afraid to articulate what it is that they want. Once you communicate clearly what you’ve already gotten clarity on, you’re more likely to get the results that you want.  

Outsourcing is something that intimidates a lot of people, but it doesn’t have to be scary. The best way to outsource is to go out and do it. I challenge you to take that first step today, and I promise you that it will be a total game changer for your business!  

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LINKS:  

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