How can you ensure freelancers understand your business needs?

These are all great points a good starting point. For my clients who do use freelancers they have also found it helpful to interview their previous clients to fully undertstand their previous work as well at their values and work ethic. Those a few things that do beyond the exterior. Remember though the freelancer is not your employee, they may come into contact with your staff and it's important to keep those environments cohesive and productive. I have seen even a limited interaction from an outsider wreak havoc on a company.

Always consider first WHY you want to hire a freelancer. Could the work that needs to be done be automated instead? If you do decide that you do want to hire one, here are some useful tips based on my experience... Make sure that you define tasks, timelines, and compensation clearly before hiring. Document the scope in a signed agreement, specifying those deliverables, deadlines, milestones, revisions, payment terms, and ownership rights. A well-defined scope prevents misunderstandings, ensuring smooth collaborations and successful project outcomes.

This is so on point. So you must be clear about your vision and have the ability to properly communicate your vision to your freelancer. Do not shot cut this crutial step. Be prepared, so that your meetings are clear a succinct. Have a clear agenda. If your freelancer feels that you are unprepared you may be setting expections unconsciously. It's those little details that will keep your project moving and end with your desired outcome for all invloved.

If YOU don't have a vision that is easy to understand - how would you expect your staff and freelancers to know what it is? By having up to date and accurate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for every task - regardless of whether you would outsource it - means that it will be easy for any freelancer to stay 'on message'. If you treat your freelancer like one of the team - then they are more likely to act as PART of your team!

One of the most powerful ways to handle freelancers is something I borrowed from how coders manage Agile projects. Have a daily 'standup' meeting where everyone checks in with anything outstanding. That way - everyone is 'ahead of the game' and you don't get any surprises! It only needs to take 5 minutes per freelancer on a joint Zoom call (if that is practical in terms of the project). It also facilitates a bit of teamwork and motivation at the same time as then your freelancers feel part of the project as a whole.

When I have learned with my team is to have preset meetings and a regular set checkin schedule. This sounds so basic, but we all know it can be easy to have time get away from us aas we are all busy. Having a schedule in advance will eliminate issues that can destroy the success of your project. That being said, it does not need to be lenghtly involved event, it may be a quick call, or even a lunch gathering. The main goal should be to keep the communication open and without distractions.

Though building trust and rapport comes with time, there is much that can be done to set your partnership. Keep your word. Be certian to do what your freelancer is expecting on your end. By the way, I have seen this simple detail cause unnecessary delays and disagreements.

When hiring a freelancer it's important to take the time to full vet the person you bring on board for your project. They may have the skills but their values may not be in alignment with you and your company. In the end, once you secure a good fit freelancer for your project, you will save yourself time, money and future headaches.