Contrary to popular (outdated beliefs) it isn’t just large companies that can afford to outsource. The Internet and its associated technologies, such as VoIP (such as Skype) and email, means there is an array of professionals available across the world. You just have to know how to find them, what to ask them to do, and how to monitor their effectiveness.

What kind of jobs should be outsourced?

The rule of thumb is that your core business must remain in-house. Don’t let the important stuff disappear from your reach. Whatever makes your business special has to be ring-fenced so that your competitors don’t overtake you.

Everything else can be outsourced if necessary. The costs are better than hiring permanent staff, because you only outsource the tasks you need to.

Split up the tasks you think may have outsourcing potential into one of three groups: repetitive work, specialized work, and executive or highly skilled work. Admin isn’t just data entry and filing. It comes with many flavors and qualities, as diverse as a Chief Finance Officer, an accounts payable clerk, or a project manager.

How to track down the best outsourcing providers

There are a heap of companies out there, some specializing in admin experts, others that offer a range of professionals. Whether it’s an umbrella company such as http://crystalumbrella.com or a bidding website, you’ll have to sift through the chaff and find the grains of talent.

Don’t grab the first outsourcing company you see, and expect it to be a one-size-fits-all scenario. It might produce a couple of good virtual assistants, but its finance staff may not be up to much; the upper executive-level contractors might be amazing, but the executive assistants not so good.

Networking is a great tool for business. A Chambers of Commerce might not be able to recommend one company over another, but they can give you a list of providers. Trade organizations may be able to recommend providers to you. Asking your Linked In and Twitter networks should draw a variety of well-informed answers, leading you to an organization with which you can work. Don’t just take your chances with any outsourcing website – check out a few recommendations. [Read more…]