If you have been considering outsourcing your language translation, localization, or transcription services to a freelance translator, you are not alone. Many companies have started discovering the power of outsourcing their language business. The benefits of working with a freelancer can include increased profitability and productivity as well as eliminating the need for on-staff linguists.
Yes, you can save a lot of money. But, there are some caveats to keep in mind to ensure that you get the most out of your outsourcing venture.
To help you out, here are 10 tips for getting the best results from outsourcing your language business.
We hope these tips will help you determine whether outsourcing your language business is right for you. If that’s the case, it won’t be long before you will be enjoying the many benefits of working with a freelancer.
Find a Great Freelancer
Not all outsourcers are created equal. If you develop a relationship with a great freelancer, you will be able to rely on their work and professionalism for years (or decades) come. Finding the right person takes time and patience but the payoff can be worth it!
Test!
Don’t trust your freelancer to get it right the first time. Try out a couple different freelancers and see how they stack up. If there is an opportunity for improvement, make sure you let them know before you commit to more assignments!
Time Is Money
Outsourcing is a costly venture. It shouldn’t take a year to get your first few projects completed. By taking the time to test out different freelancers and get a feel for good work, you will be able to meet your goals sooner.
Make Sure You Understand Each Other’s Expectations
When evaluating potential outsources’ portfolios and samples, make sure that they meet your needs. Start simple and ask for a minimum of fifteen pages per day. Be sure to use a CMS system that meets your company’s needs, be it WordPress, Google Sites, or something else.
Get on the Same Page as Your Freelancer
Doing the research and connecting with potential outsourcers is only half the battle. Once you have selected your freelancers, you need to be on the same page with them. Have them present you with work order and make sure that it includes all of the items that should be included in each project.
Provide Feedback and Feedback
The most important thing you will need to do as an outsourcer is to give your outsourcer valuable feedback. Your outsourcer will give you feedback and in return you need to give them feedback in order for them to get better at their job. This can be done through weekly check-ins or simply sending an email every once in a while.
Get Training
Just like any other employees, your outsourcer needs some training on their role within the company. Make sure that they know how to handle projects, workflow, and expectations from management, as well as all of the intricacies of the CMS system you use (if applicable).
Give Feedback
It is essential that you are also giving your outsourcer feedback. Do not leave this to one of the meetings or notes you do every once in a while. Give tailored feedback throughout the week — don’t show all of your cards at once.
Be Flexible
An outsourcer is a human being with their own likes and dislikes, so it is important that you find someone who is willing to work with your company’s specific needs. Give outsourcers freedom to experiment and try new techniques as long as they keep producing quality work and meet deadlines.
Be Patient
It can take some time for an outsourcer to adjust to the new environment and get used to the workflow. It is important that you are patient and understanding while they develop their own style, but also push them to get better at their job.
Be Clear
Words can mean a lot and it is important that you communicate clearly with your outsourcer. Otherwise, they will become confused about their role within the company. This will cause them to develop conflicting expectations with the rest of their clients.
If you are considering outsourcing your language business to a freelancer but are unsure of what to look for, consider these 10 tips to help you make a good decision on who to hire.
Outsourcing services can be a great way to increase efficiency and productivity, both in the office and at home. As long as you find the right outsourcer, take the time to set up your work and delivery expectations, and develop a good relationship with them, you can benefit greatly from using outsourcing services.
Check out our course about outsourcing services and learn about how to find the right person. Learning how to outsource will give you the edge you need to succeed!