"Delegating Tasks to Freelancers: 10 Best Practices for Maximum Value

"Delegating Tasks to Freelancers: 10 Best Practices for Maximum Value

By M.Dan | 6 min read

Delegating Tasks to Freelancers: 10 Best Practices

As a business owner or manager, it can be challenging to manage all the tasks and responsibilities that come with running a company. One solution to this problem is to delegate tasks to freelancers. By working with freelancers, you can tap into a pool of talented professionals who can help you get more done in less time. However, to get the most value from your freelancers, it's important to follow best practices for delegation.

1. Clearly Define the Task

Before you delegate a task to a freelancer, it's important to clearly define the task itself. This includes outlining the specific deliverables, the deadline, and any specific guidelines or requirements. For example, if you're delegating a writing task, you should provide the freelancer with the topic, word count, and any research materials. By providing clear instructions, you'll ensure that the freelancer knows exactly what is expected of them and can deliver the work on time and to your satisfaction.

2. Set Expectations

In addition to clearly defining the task, it's also important to set expectations for communication, revisions, and feedback. For example, you might expect to receive updates on the freelancer's progress every few days, or you might want to review and provide feedback on their work before it's finalized. By setting clear expectations, you'll ensure that the freelancer knows what you expect of them and can deliver the work to your satisfaction.

3. Communicate Regularly

Regular communication is key to a successful freelancer relationship. Make sure to check in with your freelancer regularly to see how the task is progressing, and to provide feedback or answer any questions they may have. This will help to ensure that the freelancer is on the right track and that any issues can be addressed quickly. Furthermore, it's important to be responsive to the freelancer's messages, questions and concerns so that you can build trust and a positive working relationship.

4. Use a Project Management Tool

Using a project management tool can help you keep track of the task at hand, deadlines, and communication with the freelancer. There are several tools available such as Asana, Trello, or Slack, which allow you to assign tasks, set deadlines, and collaborate with the freelancer in one centralized location. This will make it easy to keep track of what needs to be done and when, and will also make it easy for the freelancer to access important information and updates.

5. Provide Feedback and Recognition

Providing feedback and recognition to your freelancers can help to build a positive working relationship and ensure that the freelancer is motivated to deliver their best work. When the freelancer completes a task to your satisfaction, be sure to let them know that you appreciate their hard work. Also, providing constructive feedback on areas where the freelancer can improve will help them deliver better work in the future.

6. Choose the Right Fit

Choosing the right freelancer for the task is crucial to ensure that you get the best results. It's important to not only consider the freelancer's qualifications and skills, but also to make sure they align with your company's values and work style. Review the freelancer's portfolio, ask for references, and have a conversation with them to learn about their experience, skills, and approach to the task at hand. By finding a freelancer that is the right fit for your company, you will be able to build a successful working relationship and achieve your business goals.

7. Be Flexible

It's important to be flexible when working with freelancers. Sometimes, unexpected issues may arise that can delay the completion of a task. Instead of getting frustrated or upset, try to understand the situation and work with the freelancer to find a solution. By being flexible and understanding, you'll build a better working relationship with the freelancer and they will be more likely to go the extra mile to meet your needs.

8. Use a Contract

Before beginning work with a freelancer, it's important to have a contract in place that outlines the specific terms of the project, including the scope of work, deadlines, payment, and any other relevant information. This will ensure that both parties are clear on what is expected and can help to prevent misunderstandings or disputes down the road.

9. Be Clear About Payment

Be clear about payment terms and expectations before starting work with a freelancer. Discuss how and when the freelancer will be paid, as well as any bonuses or incentives that may be available. This will help to ensure that both parties are on the same page and can help to prevent any issues or misunderstandings related to payment.

10. Build a Relationship

Finally, it's important to build a relationship with your freelancer. By getting to know them and building a rapport, you'll be able to better understand their strengths, weaknesses, and working style. This will help to ensure that the freelancer is able to deliver their best work and that you are able to get the most value from your working relationship with them.

In conclusion, working with freelancers can be a great way to get more done in less time, but it's important to follow best practices for delegation to ensure that you get the most value from your freelancers. By following the practices outlined in this blog post, you can build a successful working relationship with your freelancers and achieve your business goals.


M. Dan

Passionate about freelancing, programming, SEO, communities, blogging, trips and parties.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

mail