Outsourcing work to online freelancers and virtual assistants (VAs) is seen as a cheaper and convenient way to save on labor costs. Using their services offers advantages to most businesses, but it is important to consider the negative aspects of using online labor. The accessibility of the internet and lack of oversight makes it possible for people of most nationalities to offer online services. All kinds of inaccurate statements about the credentials of freelancers and VAs are made. There are also cultural misunderstandings and language differences to consider. Foresight, planning, and monitoring of freelancers can overcome such difficulties. This article outlines some common misconceptions about outsourcing and how to overcome them.
Outsourcing Saves Time and Costs
Saving money on labor, employment benefits and wages is unfortunately replaced by the unlikely expense of time. Managing the delays of freelancers can be expensive and frustrating. Here are some common issues experienced;
- Tasks that seem clear to the outsourcer may seem wordy or short of information to freelancers. Miscommunication about payments, attachments, photos, and designs can also cause delays.
- Lost files, computer malfunctions, and bad internet communication are not uncommon for the outsourcer, freelancer or VA.
- Communicating urgently with people in different time zones can be frustrating and result in lost business as a result of delays.
- Long-running disputes over payments for poor or delayed work are common online.
- Communication with people that are non-native language speakers can result in cultural misunderstandings and lengthy conversations. For example, a freelancer working on the translation of a document may make the wrong choice of vocabulary or grammar.
- Tasks may have a number of spelling or grammar mistakes and need to be checked. Multiple rewrites result in delays.
Many of the problems outlined above can be overcome by establishing good relationships with freelancers and VAs. Good planning and understanding the expectations of all parties involved are necessary to overcome delays and frustrations. The outsourcer must research potential pitfalls and be prepared for setbacks concerning work they upload.
Documents, plans, and designs often require a good understanding of local language and customs. The outsourcer should consider if sourcing a local worker saves time or is more cost-effective. Minimal communication and management issues may make local labor more feasible than outsourcing to freelancers or VAs.
The Same Expertise Found in the Real World can be Found Online
There is no question that a large range of expertise available on the internet can be sourced at a lower price than local labor. There is also a large pool of online labor that may not be sourced locally. Consider this:
- Expertise may be sourced locally through informal networks that may be cheap with minimal delays. For example, a programmer living locally does not advertise his or her services and requires a little more time and guidance to complete the work.
- The expertise and credentials advertised by freelancers may not be reflected in their work. The outsourcer should check credentials and establish trust with freelancers and VAs. A positive presence on social media, websites and forums, professional logos, banners, testimonials, and reviews are all a sign that the services being offered are legitimate.
Once the expertise, cost and time required for managing freelancers and VAs are established, it is then up to the individual to find websites offering legitimate services. Having a good knowledge of outsourcing online before finding the correct services will make it easier to make a plan that is timely and less frustrating. A realistic look at both the advantages and disadvantages will result in more informed and accurate labor solutions for all businesses. Jumping head first into the endless services being offered online is not easy for first timers, but this guide will make a real difference to the way that businesses approach outsourcing.
