Companies, small or large, are turning to freelancers more than ever to complete projects and tasks. Hiring freelancers allows companies to access a wide range of skills and expertise for a variety of tasks, from graphic design to web development and content creation. In this article, we will introduce the top platforms looking to hire professional freelancers and provide tips on how to effectively work with them.
A good agile talent strategy needs to be communicated as effectively internally as it is externally.
5 factors to consider when choosing a freelance platform
Type of work: Consider whether the platform offers freelancers with the specific skills and expertise required for the project.
Project timeline: Look for a platform that can accommodate the project timeline. Are delivery times suitable with your project deadlines?
Budget: Freelancers often have to adapt to the platform’s pricing model. From hourly to per task or project fee, find the one that fits your type of project.
Expertise: Consider the level of expertise required for the project. While many platforms offer different types of services, you may want to look for one that specialices in the type of service you require.
Platform fees: Just like the different pricing models, freelance platforms have also different fees. Compare fees of different platforms to determine which one fits best with your project. Some freelance platforms charge a percentage of the project cost as fees, while others charge a flat fee.
What to prepare before hiring a freelancer
Before hiring a freelancer, companies should prepare several things to ensure a successful working relationship. Here are some things to consider:
Prepare a detailed brief of your project or task with your requirements. The brief should be as detailed as possible to avoid any misunderstandings or miscommunications. Think of the end result and what information the freelancer needs in order to produce the expected outcome. Many platforms also offer a certain amount of revisions, but you would want to get the first draft as close as possible to your desired outcome, so you can use the revisions for the smaller fixes.
Clear communication is the most important when having something done remote or with someone you haven’t worked with before. Before starting the project, ensure that both parties are on the same page.
Budget – Compare the different rates for the service you need and verify what you will get for it. Hiring the cheapest or most expensive may not align with your expectations on the outcome. You also don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you overpay because the work was already delivered or your project timeline is being jeopardized.
Trial tasks – It is always a good idea to try and test a smaller portion of a bigger task with several freelancers of your choice, even if it means investing a few more dollars. Pick the ones that fulfilled your requirements the most, communicated well and delivered in time.
Due dates – Know and communicate your timeline for the project. Freelancers often need to juggle multiple clients, therefore you need to communicate due dates clearly and make it part of your criteria in the selection process.
Best 5 freelance platforms for small businesses
There are several freelance platforms available for companies to choose from, each with its unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most popular freelance platforms we at Business Software Reviews tried and reviewed for you:
1. Upwork
Upwork offers a wide range of freelancers from around the world. Upwork allows companies to post jobs and receive proposals from freelancers, making it easy to find the right person for the job.
Advantages: Large pool of freelancers, flexible payment options, user-friendly interface
Disadvantages: Some freelancers are not reliable, the platform can be expensive
2. Fiverr
Fiverr specializes in smaller projects, such as logo design and copywriting. Fiverr offers affordable rates and quick turnaround times, making it a great option for companies on a tight budget or with a tight deadline.
Advantages: Low prices, large pool of freelancers, easy to use
Disadvantages: Quality can be inconsistent, communication can be difficult
3. Freelancer.com
Freelancer.com is a great all-around freelance website that offers a variety of features, including job boards, escrow payments, and project management tools.
Advantages: Large pool of freelancers, flexible payment options, user-friendly interface
Disadvantages: Some freelancers are not reliable, the platform can be expensive, there is a risk of fraud
4. Toptal
Toptal offers high-quality freelancers in various fields, including software development and design. Toptal’s vetting process ensures that only the top 3% of freelancers are accepted, making it a great option for companies looking for the best talent.
Advantages: Access to top talent, project-based contracts, satisfaction guarantee
Disadvantages: Expensive, onboarding can be slow, not a good fit for all projects
5. Outsourcely
Outsourcely is a freelance platform that helps employers build long-term relationships with reliable remote workers.
Advantages: Access to a global talent pool, flexible pricing, ongoing support
Disadvantages: Quality control can be an issue, communication can be a challenge, there is a risk of data breaches
Best practices for working with freelancers
Once a freelancer has been hired, there are several best practices that companies should follow to ensure a successful working relationship. These include clear communication and feedback, prompt payment and invoicing, and building long-term relationships with freelancers.
Set a budget
Once you know what you’re looking for, set a budget for your project. This will help you narrow down your options and find the right freelancer for your needs.
Be clear about your expectations
When you post a job, be clear about what you need done and what your expectations are. This will help you find the right freelancer for your project.
Communicate regularly
Once you’ve found a freelancer, be sure to communicate regularly with them. This will help you ensure that the project is on track and that you’re both happy with the results.
Pay on time
When you’re satisfied with the work, be sure to pay the freelancer on time. This will help you build a good relationship with them and encourage them to work with you again in the future.
Benefit from a successful working relationship with freelancer
Hiring a freelancer can be a great way for companies to access a wide range of expertise and skills. By choosing the right freelance platform and preparing for the project, companies can ensure a successful working relationship with their freelancer. By following best practices for working with freelancers, companies can build long-term relationships that benefit both parties.
