How to Know It's Time to Hire a Freelancer for Your Business
By Andrew Patricio
October 08, 2018
Productivity
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We’re living in a time commonly referred to as the “gig economy.” This economy is growing far faster than traditional job roles, according to a recent study by the Metropolitan Policy Program at the Brookings Institution. The use of freelancers has increased by 27% over the past two decades and there’s seemingly no end in sight.
As a business owner, you’re probably scratching your head wondering if and when it’s time to hire a freelancer. If any of the following look familiar, it may be time to post a gig listing.
If you’ve reached a point in your business where you need some extra hands on deck, but you’re not quite ready to commit to bringing someone on to work regular hours, you’re at what is known as the “in-between” stage. It’s the time when having a flexible, pay-per-project plan can help you maximize your budget and your productivity without requiring long-term commitments as you wait to see what happens with your business as a result of their help. A freelancer takes the pressure off your shoulders, keeping you on track and moving in the right direction.
It’s important to remember that hiring a freelancer does come with a price tag. While you can find people who will do jobs for lower rates, finding freelancers who can do the jobs well often means paying a little extra. This little bit of extra pay up front will pay off in dividends down the road because the job will be done well, on time, and right.
Temporary projects pop up regularly for small business owners. Projects, such as a website redesign or restructuring of your bookkeeping, don’t require ongoing work. Having a freelancer tackle the temporary project will help you accomplish what you need to without hiring a full-time employee.
You’re not a jack of all trades. In many instances, you’ll need someone with a very refined set of skills. It’s for these jobs that a freelancer can help you accomplish a specific goal. Whether you’re hiring a writer to help you put together an opt-in, or a graphic designer to help you with a rebranding project, the freelancer you bring on board is an expert in his or her field.
Working in a small business can feel a little isolating at times, especially if you’re a one-person show. Hiring a freelancer can help take some of the work off you or your small team’s plate, but it doesn’t mean you’re sending the person to the wolves. If you’re ready to collaborate with someone on a project, you’re ready for a freelancer. This new relationship requires nurturing, consistent communication, and clear expectations from the onset to make it a success. If you’re willing to put in that effort, you’re ready to hire a freelancer.
The gig economy is here to stay. As a small business owner, you can take advantage of freelancers available for hire to tackle temporary projects or fill a need. Or, if you need a specific skillset on your team, hiring a freelancer can be a smart addition. No matter why you hire, get ready to work hand-in-hand with a skilled employee to help elevate your business.
As a business owner, you’re probably scratching your head wondering if and when it’s time to hire a freelancer. If any of the following look familiar, it may be time to post a gig listing.
You’re In an “In-Between Stage”
If you’ve reached a point in your business where you need some extra hands on deck, but you’re not quite ready to commit to bringing someone on to work regular hours, you’re at what is known as the “in-between” stage. It’s the time when having a flexible, pay-per-project plan can help you maximize your budget and your productivity without requiring long-term commitments as you wait to see what happens with your business as a result of their help. A freelancer takes the pressure off your shoulders, keeping you on track and moving in the right direction.
It’s important to remember that hiring a freelancer does come with a price tag. While you can find people who will do jobs for lower rates, finding freelancers who can do the jobs well often means paying a little extra. This little bit of extra pay up front will pay off in dividends down the road because the job will be done well, on time, and right.
You Have a Temporary Project
Temporary projects pop up regularly for small business owners. Projects, such as a website redesign or restructuring of your bookkeeping, don’t require ongoing work. Having a freelancer tackle the temporary project will help you accomplish what you need to without hiring a full-time employee.
You Need a Specific Skill Set
You’re not a jack of all trades. In many instances, you’ll need someone with a very refined set of skills. It’s for these jobs that a freelancer can help you accomplish a specific goal. Whether you’re hiring a writer to help you put together an opt-in, or a graphic designer to help you with a rebranding project, the freelancer you bring on board is an expert in his or her field.
You’re Ready to Collaborate
Working in a small business can feel a little isolating at times, especially if you’re a one-person show. Hiring a freelancer can help take some of the work off you or your small team’s plate, but it doesn’t mean you’re sending the person to the wolves. If you’re ready to collaborate with someone on a project, you’re ready for a freelancer. This new relationship requires nurturing, consistent communication, and clear expectations from the onset to make it a success. If you’re willing to put in that effort, you’re ready to hire a freelancer.
Hiring for the Gig Economy
The gig economy is here to stay. As a small business owner, you can take advantage of freelancers available for hire to tackle temporary projects or fill a need. Or, if you need a specific skillset on your team, hiring a freelancer can be a smart addition. No matter why you hire, get ready to work hand-in-hand with a skilled employee to help elevate your business.