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Article by Tina Martin
Many small business owners are unfamiliar with leading remote teams. Although hiring and managing a remote team can be challenging, it’s well worth it. Recruiting workers from an international pool of freelancers gives you a chance to find the top talent in your price range and reduce the costs of operating an office space. And, according to Forbes, evidence shows that remote workers are more productive! If you’re interested in developing a remote team to boost your business, check out these tips to find talent and keep everyone on track.
Know Where to Look
Although remote workers make up Pexels of the American workforce, it can be challenging to find reliable talent online. First, you need to know where to look. There are dozens of platforms where you can search for remote candidates, or you can post a job yourself and wait for the applications to start flowing in. Reputable job boards connect business owners with experienced freelance candidates. For instance, you can search the pool of Upwork freelancers and hire workers who have the desired skill sets, whether you need a virtual assistant, graphic designer, or web designer.
Set Your Expectations
Set some clear expectations before you start hand-picking your team. Confirm exactly which skills you’re looking for and what kind of experience you would like your team members to bring to the table. It’s important to define your project clearly, as “scope creep” is a common source of frustration and stress among freelancers. Digital Project Manager provides more information about scope creep and how to avoid it.
Many business owners choose to hire remote workers to save some money. While it’s true that you can cut your business expenses by using a remote team, remember that you get what you pay for. Take some time to research the true value of the professionals you’re looking to hire so you can avoid driving away amazing talent with lowball offers. Lowballing is one of the biggest reasons freelancers turn down their clients!
Develop a Flawless Communication System
Once you’ve recruited a solid team of workers, get everyone on the same page with project management tools and a great communication system. Invest in messaging technology or take advantage of apps that allow team members to communicate and collaborate on projects. Also, encourage your team to over-communicate so you can avoid common problems that occur due to miscommunication. Schedule regular video meetings to keep your team united as a whole. Also, try to connect with your team members one-on-one whenever possible so you can nurture a trustworthy and honest relationship with them.
Offer Constructive Feedback
Giving feedback can be challenging, but it’s vital to the development of your team. Feedback will help your team members understand your expectations, learn from their mistakes, and feel more confident. When you give feedback, avoid negative language and try to give valuable suggestions based on your own experiences. Be specific, and use examples! Most importantly, remember to share your appreciation for your remote workers whenever possible. Thank them for their hard work and let them know what they’re doing right. Look online for more creative ways to praise your remote employees when words just won’t cut it.
Putting together a remote team is something that many business owners consider at some point in their entrepreneurial career. While challenging, it can be extremely rewarding when done properly. Whether you need to start delegating work so you can focus on the bigger picture, or you’re trying to increase your bottom line by cutting expenses, a remote team can provide a solid foundation for your business as you pursue growth opportunities.
Bio
Author Tina Martin stays busy as a life coach and works hard to help herself and her clients achieve a healthy work-life balance.
Content Disclaimer: This article was authored by the writer/author indicated above in his/her personal capacity. The opinions and views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the view or opinions of Web Design Just for You, or Eileen Forte.
