So, your start-up has reached the point where expansion is a real possibility, but it’s a big step to take to sign employees onto the payroll.
One of the main challenges is working out which areas would most benefit from specialist expertise. You might also find that the help you want can be targeted at a specific project or just needed ad hoc and doesn’t justify a full-time employee.
Freelancer talent is the perfect solution, offering a limitless pool of specialist help you can purchase on a need basis. Find legal, accountancy, PR and marketing experts there for when you need them but not a permanent fixture.
Finding the Right Freelancer
These days, an overwhelming number of well-qualified people offer remote services online. When you find someone who seems a good fit for your business, do your homework and check out their credentials.
It’s easy enough to discover if their references and testimonials are real but dig a little deeper. Do an education background check to confirm their training and background. You can also use other screenings to verify their identity as an individual, plus a variety of personal checks rather than just authenticating their work record. Utilizing quality talent advisory services will also help you find the right freelancers for your specific needs. These services can provide you with a pool of pre-screened and vetted freelancers, saving you time and ensuring the quality of your hires.
All their data should stack up. Your start-up hasn’t the muscle of a large company when it comes to pre-employment checks, but some companies can do the legwork for you. Protecting your business from fakes is essential, particularly if you hire from one of the many freelancer platforms.
What Are the Considerations When Hiring Freelancers?
The upfront cost of freelancers is usually more expensive than the same talent hired as an employee—or is it?
When comparing costs between a freelance and an employee, there are hidden overheads. You’ll probably end up paying way more than just salary for an employee. Make sure your financial comparison is accurate.
A lot depends upon the skill set and level of the person you are looking for and their experience. Some specialities also attract higher rates than others.
Freelancers are free to work for whom they like, so they might not be available for another project. It’s frustrating if they have insights into your business and brand, requiring you to start over with a new person.
The great joy of freelancing is that people can do it from any corner of the world, so many freelancers are remote. Even with video calls, there is less face-to-face interaction.
Why not consider using freelancers located near your business or within your local community? You can forge excellent relationships with professional talent and link up with other businesses in the same area or sector as your own.
Final Thoughts
In 2016, one in three US workers was a gig worker, and this stat grew exponentially to around 40% by 2020. From a little trickle, the freelancer stream has developed into a massive pool of talent just waiting for your business to tap.
Freelancers bring unique skills to a start-up, offering a kaleidoscopic range of talent which is impossible to replicate by hiring full-time staff.
Enjoy the gig economy and hire just when you need to. Somehow, now upscaling doesn’t seem quite so daunting after all.