Working with freelancers is SO chill and I'm not saying that because I'm a freelancer myself. For a company it just offers much more freedom, because you don't have to deal with mandatory team outings, vacations or maternity leave. As an individual, freelancers are also nice, because you have a business analysis or business cards in no time without being tied to a package or obligation.
Now comes the tricky part: how do you attract good freelancers? How do you find the golden freelancer who helps you move forward? I've got your back.
Use your direct network
There are millions of websites where freelancers can sign up, for example Upwork or FIverr. In itself, I have heard pretty okay stories from these. Even top stories from people who found their permanent employees through Upwork. But I still don't support it. Why not? Your real network really does have a reputation to uphold. Of course you have reviews on those freelance websites, too, and bad reviews affect the freelancer. But it all feels much more intense when you really know the person. Then you have more of a connection. Even through-via still works that way; if your former colleague recommends a friend of hers, she risks her reputation. In real life, you just have more to lose.
Be distinctive in your "ad"
"I'm looking for [position] [description of duties] [remuneration] [contact information]". Plz stop. Try to make it something fun, then you'll attract nicer people too. What makes the position unique? What is special about your company? For example, ask for the answer to a special question in the "application" or give crazy requirements/prés. In terms of design, of course, you can also go wild. In short: the more distinctive you are, the better freelancers you will attract.
Be open to everything and don't be stubborn
Freelancers are versatile people. A freelance marketer has also made sure his or her bookkeeping is in order - either by doing it himself or by making an effort to find a good person to outsource it to. But this marketer has also learned to network, can type at lightning speed through all the follow-up emails, knows the basics of personal branding, has knowledge of psychology, knows all about time management and organization, and can work with all kinds of different people, projects and deadlines. Because that's all freelancers need to be able to do these days. That knowledge of psychology is necessary to get good at sales and branding & which freelancer can't work well with difficult people (vinegar-pissers, dominants, pessimists, hypocrites, and so on) isn't going to make it. What is my point? Freelancers really can do a lot. So should you come in contact with someone who can't or doesn't have exactly what you want, give them a chance anyway - even if that just means taking a moment to peruse their LinkedIn profile or look more closely at their portfolio. Open your mind so you don't overlook opportunities.
Be honest. Always
Now, I don't want to completely contradict the previous point, but it's important to stay honest. Is your neighbor all excited about this great freelancer but you have absolutely no click? Does he or she lack essential skills or does he or she have an ugly website or portfolio? Or does a collaboration with this person just not feel right? Then be honest and cancel. Constructive criticism is going to help the person, so try to give it when it is applicable and you have time for it. No matter how desperate you are, it is vital to stay honest. Only then will you find the perfect partner - ehm, freelancer!
Tips, tips, tips! How did you attract or plan to attract the alllller best freelancer ever? Sharing = caring.
