Are you looking for a new member to join your team or searching for a collaborator on a freelance basis, and not sure where to start? Some pointers to get you going can be found in this piece.
Put your needs in writing
Before starting your search, you need to solidify what you are looking for. Put your thoughts in writing and try to define as much as possible the type of tasks you need help with, and the abilities of the person you are looking for. If you need a graphic designer, for example, what type of experience you expect them to have had, and what needs will they be filling? A designer with a keen eye for websites will not necessarily be a good fit when creating characters for a game, so be as precise as you can be at this phase.
Keep in mind, also, that when you look to hire someone freelance you will need to use different language and focus on different aspects of the job that when you need to employ staff. For instance, a freelancer will require to know more about the specifics of a job, while someone that is looking for a employee position will need to find information about your business culture in the call. In addition, mentioning abilities like “able to work independently” can be important when seeking an employee, but redundant when looking for a freelancer.
Tip: If you have no experience writing calls for open positions check out job hunting websites for inspiration.
Don’t make a decision under stress
Your open position has been posted and you are receiving the first responses – exciting! Now for the hard part: being patient…
Though you probably need to get someone on board as soon as possible it is very important to excersise patience and wait for the right person to come along. Adding to your team or learning to work with a new freelancer takes time, so you need to invest that towards the right person. It may be temping to hire the first person who comes along – especially if your call is not getting much response – but making the wrong hire can set you back on many levels.
Tip: Think of personality in addition to skills as you look at your candidates. Whoever you choose needs to be someone you feel you can work with so chemistry matters too.
Always have a proper contract
I can not stress the importance of this enough. Even if you are working with your best friend – always get things in writing. It not only protects both of you legally, but it also helps figure out where each party stands. For example, your employee may have expected their health insurance to be covered but you can’t afford that currently. Making sure both parties are clear on what obligations and benefits are involved sets you off to a good start!
There are plently of samples and guidelines online; it should be no trouble finding one that meets your needs. For example, if you are working with a ZZP it is worth it to read up on the regulations for ZZP contracts – then you make sure you meet the requirements of freelance work, and don’t run the risk of having the tax authorities deem your relationship as one of employee/employer upon inspection. With so many resources at your fingertips, you really have no excuse to enter any type of partnership without proper documentation.
Tip: Seriously consider adding a list of responsibilities (in case of employment) or deliverables (in case of collaboration with a freelancer) along with your basis contract.
Take the time to train your staff/partner
Last but certainly not least, make sure you have the time to invest in your new work relationship. You should be prepared that adding to your team or starting a new collaboration with a freelancer will add to your work load – at least in the beginning. Even the perfect candidate will need to adapt to working with you and learn the ins and outs of your business, so it is essential you set aside time to train your new resource.
You may be tempted to get past this step fast, but let it take it’s time. It will save both you and your hire time later – when for example you find yourself reviewing copy, having to do multiple rounds of feedback as your new hire is not yet familiar with the quirky style you and your clients associate with your business.
Tip: Put some basic thoughts in a document explaining your vision for your business, and some key past and future projects. You can either share that with your new hire directly or use it as a guideline for a meeting where you go over these matters with them.