It is of utmost importance that you find the right freelancer for your project, so that you get the best for your business. It goes without saying that if you make the wrong choice, the chances that your ranking will plummet are always high. This said, there are a number of factors that you must consider before making your pick.
Things to consider for finding the ideal freelancer
Skill set
This is one top factor that you can overlook at your own peril. In this case, make it a point to choose freelancer who have the needed skills. This might seem trivial until you hire one that messes up the entire project. On the other hand, while there might be many potential candidates applying for the same job, consider specifics of the skills. In other words, look at the finer details of their proposals and determine if they really meet your requirements.
Project overview
This is another fundamental factor closely related to the skill set. As a matter of fact, the clearer your project details are, the higher the chances you will get the right freelancers. You are advised to write a brief in such a succinct manner that will leave no doubt what you want to be done. If you write vague description, then you might end up attracting the wrong applicants. Overall, if you do not know what you need, how do you expect freelancer to know about it? This is a rule of thumb that should be followed.
Collaborative technique
In almost all cases, clients are always looking for business partners (freelancers) they can work with long term. Therefore, if you want something to get done, always be ready to receive new ideas from the freelancer. The fact is that as an expert in your field, the freelancer might have in-depth knowledge on something you have or idea about. In as much as you might have your own ideas, recommendation from expert is something that will definitely help you out. Last but not least, let the project go in the direction that will meet your unique needs.
Bid and profile examination
If you have posted a project on a bidding site, take time to examine all bids and profile of applicants. As such, you will get a hint on what you can expect from your preferred choice. Importantly, choose bids that explicitly explain how the freelancer will add value to your project. You can shortlist a few before finally interviewing them. Remember, accepting very cheap bids in order to save some money might be suicidal. The end products might not only be crappy and this might necessitate that you consider rehiring. You’ll just end up wasting time and money, so choose wisely!
Paid trial tests
This is something that most freelancers do not like, especially those who are not so confident about their skills. Nevertheless, if you are posting a project for the first time and you have no idea about the ABC’s of the selection process, then test-piece might help you a great deal. Always choose tests that are related to your project details, and if everything goes well, you can actually go ahead and hire. If not good, you can as well tell the freelancer to use the piece and decline his or her offer.
Referrals
If you have no time in your hands to undertake extensive interviews, you can as well ask for a referral from colleagues. This is one of the fastest ways of finding a freelancer who is not only reliable but dependable in so many ways. However, not all will always be great for your specific task but will be evidently good in some sections. You can always ask for sample of his work, and you can contact him if it is a good fit. Do not hesitate to contract the freelancer and if you agree on terms and condition, both of you can go ahead with the contract.
Availability and time frame
There is nothing so distressing like hiring a freelancer for an emergency project, and sooner than you know it, you experience communication breakdown. The best way to go about this hiccup is to ask the freelancer about availability. And so, consider the time zone and related things that you think might affect the task.
Respect
It is equally important to choose freelancers who are respectful, and can relate well with their clients. You can always determine freelancers’ behaviors on how they respond to your questions during the interview. A great freelancer will always ask questions based on the job description, will be respectful, and also confident that they can get the job done. They will not be pushy in regard to starting the job, but can offer options based on what you need.
All in all, if you happen to use the above-mentioned tricks and tips, you’ll get a reliable freelancer. You are also advised to take time to do extensive interviews on shortlisted candidates. Lastly, do not hesitate to fire one who is not performing well.