Small- to medium-sized businesses are always on the lookout for different ways to achieve their business goals for less. Outsourcing is one of the best ways to not only cut some costs in your business—but also help in giving you the extra time you need to focus more on what you’re good at. However, outsourcing for the first time can be a little difficult if you have not done it before.

So what should you take note of when outsourcing for the first time?

Here are five things you need to know for a smooth sailing outsourcing journey.

Set Clear Objectives

Always keep your lines of communication open, most especially when it comes to setting goals and expectations. Remember that for any business to be successful, communication must be present. Make sure that you make it very specific with your service provider the tasks and goals that you want them to do. Set the direction you want them to take and monitor them from time to time. This way, you and your service provider will be on the same page, making it easier for both parties to work together towards the same goal.

Begin with Small Assignments

When outsourcing with a service provider for the first time, start by assigning them with smaller tasks. This way, you get the feel of your service provider’s capabilities before you entrust them with the bigger, more challenging tasks.

Interview Carefully

Since you will be monitoring from a distance, the interview process is where you really get to know your potential employees. Ask your outsourcing provider if you can be involved in the recruitment process (at least in the beginning of the project). Take your time in getting to know the people you want in your team. Ask as many questions as you want but also make sure to listen carefully for bad/negative feedback.

Invest in the Training and Development

Your service provider can take care of this part, but you also need to check in with them from time to time to update them on any developments in relation to your business or brand. This also serves as a refresher for your in-house employees especially when you involve them in training your outsourced team. This keeps them on track with their tasks and aligns them to your business goals.

If It Does Not Work Out, End It Graciously

Don’t be afraid to end things when you are not satisfied with the way the work was done. If you notice no change or development was made within a generous amount of time, it is probably best to look for another service provider. However, make sure to address this issue to the service provider prior to terminating services. Don’t just leave them hanging without giving them an explanation. Let them know why you want to end the relationship and how they can improve for their future clients. Nonetheless, make sure to review your service agreement to follow the agreed terms and conditions when it comes to terminating the project.

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SOPHI, Inc. is a business process outsourcing center that delivers customer service and back-office solutions to startups in the US and Europe. Don’t miss out on our latest updates by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.