Tips for working with remote freelancers
Many forward-thinking companies now choose to have a remote working policy. This could be for ecological reasons (less travel & CO2 emissions), because you have a highly distributed workforce in many cities, or as a means to attract the best talent.
Companies like Automaticc, better known as WordPress, power more than 30% of the top million websites in the world, yet their staff work entirely from home. Freelancers are no exception, and you too may want to explore using remote based UK talent via the YunoJuno platform.
Whether you’re working with remote freelancers for the first time or wondering how you can get the most out of the relationship, here are some tips on working with remote freelancers:
Expectation management
Ensure it is clear from the start, what is expected from the freelancer and project. The freelancer needs to fully understand what they are there to do and what the end goal is. This not only gives the freelancer the autonomy they need to complete the project, but it ensures they are accountable for the end result.
Ask the freelancer what they expect from the partnership, as it is a two way relationship. What do they need to help them achieve the core goal / complete the project? Do they need particular technology or regular meetings to push the project forward? If so, and they require regular meetings, the freelancer may have external commitments, so may not be readily available and this should be made clear for both parties. Find out what is their preferred method of communication - email, phone or instant messaging? So you know the best way to get in touch, as communicating with remote workers is crucial.
Communication
Set up clear lines and points of communication so the freelancer knows exactly who and where they need to post updates to. You need to ensure you are available if the freelancer needs to chat, especially if the project is short term.
Introduce the freelancer to the team and make them aware of the key stakeholders they will need to work with. Depending on the length of the project, consider including the freelancer in any onboarding programs, to give them a greater understanding of your business.
Regular touch points
To give the freelancer any feedback and to ensure the project moves forward, ensure you set up several touch points and make sure you attend these. This will help the project run effectively and efficiently. Make sure all stakeholders or key members of the project are involved and available for these meetings.
Don’t hesitate to flag any issues straight away, otherwise these can fester and your project could go off track.
Innovation
It can be difficult for existing employees, who are already working 40 plus hours per week to find time to learn new skills. Freelancers can help bring innovation and move things forward by bringing their experience to existing teams, advising on new technologies or help set up new tools to push success. Just because the freelancer isn't there on site, ensure you value their comments and listen to them. Encourage their innovation and experience.
Most importantly, make them feel valued and part of the team.
| Aspect | Employee | Independent Contractor |
|---|---|---|
| Control and supervision | Direct control over how, when, and where to work | Freedom to set their own schedules and methods |
| Payment | Regular wages; taxes withheld by employer | Paid per project; responsible for their own taxes |
| Benefits | Health insurance, retirment plans, paid leave | Must arrange their own benefits |
| Termination | Often requires notice and may include severance | Can usually be terminated at any time without benefits |
| Tools and equipment | Provided by the employer | Typically use their own tools |
As part of the YunoJuno service, you have access to the Talent Team. Consisting of industry recruiters, not only can they help you find the perfect freelancer, they can help with the end to end process of writing and posting your brief.
Join today, and see how the Talent Team can help
