Freelancing is the smartest thing to do in the business world these days. Professionals in multiple lines of work are shifting their businesses to suit modern needs while utilizing the latest in technology. Freelancing has allowed people to earn an income without being bound to a daily office routine. Moreover, it has proven to be beneficial for companies by significantly reducing overhead costs.
Now, while freelancing might seem like a dreamy way to earn an income, it does require serious changes in the way we conduct work. Therefore, having a manager to run a team of freelancers is of the utmost importance, if a business wants to see success. Moreover, the person responsible for handling the team needs to be prepared for these particular circumstances, as they come with a new set of challenges that are different from standard business practices.
Scheduling Is the Key
To start with, a manager should be aware that the diversity of employees in his or her team can cause problems and disturbances, resulting in poor work quality and confusion. To manage individuals in different parts of the world, it is imperative to create a system that informs everyone about the work that needs to be done, and by when. Furthermore, by following some general time management tips, a team leader can make sure everyone is on the same page, reducing any delays due to miscommunication. There are many scheduling software and apps available in the market now that allow multiple team players to log in and check or discuss roles and work at the same time and with efficiency.
Be Patient
A good manager needs to be calm and composed in every way possible, and at all times. Remember that your team will most probably consist of people who are in a different time zone, don’t speak English as their first language, and might have sketchy internet connection on certain days. As a manager, you need to be understanding of any delays due to unforeseen issues. Moreover, be professional when dealing with your team members, for not everyone might understand your local slang, or your humor, resulting in unnecessary problems that could otherwise be avoided.
Be a Leader
A manager is no less than a CEO for a team and strong leadership skills are an essential aspect of being productive. As a leader, you need to be a good role model, because all eyes are on you, all the time. An excellent leader maintains the perfect balance by having a professional and personal relationship with his or her team. When in-charge of employees stationed around the world, you need to be their confidant, helping them with personal problems, while also guiding them professionally by sharing an article on how to ask for a salary raise, for example, or gifting them a useful business book. Once you become a leader who is ready to help and communicate openly, you’ll see your team’s productivity improve significantly.
Feedback is Essential
Irrespective of where you work, whether in an office or the virtual world, providing feedback to your team can make a huge difference. Well-presented criticism, with examples and tips to do better, can be the perfect morale booster for the people working under you. When it comes to freelancers, it is even more sensitive a topic as the person is not in front of you. Therefore, it is essential that besides having a video call with them, you make a word document, highlighting all the good points and those that need improvement. This way, your team member will be able to make the most from the entire feedback exercise.