Are you finding it difficult to recruit employees? Have you considered using freelancers? Research by McKinsey estimates up to 162 million people in Europe and the United States freelance, and this figure doesn’t take into account freelancers in other parts of the world.

Finding Freelancers Across the World

Online job boards are the best way to find talent. Numerous sites exist, although it’s best to stick with those with good reviews and reputations. Fees depend on the service level you select. No-frills organizations simply put you in touch with freelancers through online job boards, while others provide comprehensive services including managerial support and payments. Some, like Guru, allow you to specify freelancer locations, such as the Dominican Republic. Others, including Upwork, offer similar service levels as staffing agencies.

Managing Your Team of Freelancers

Unless it’s a one-off hire, an onboarding process is crucial where you explain company practices, introduce the new freelancers to the rest of your team, and explain work processes. Also, discuss expectations, how you’ll manage their work, and preferred communication channels that take into account different time zones. Examples of these include video and meeting apps like Zoom and work management platforms such as Slack that allow you to communicate one on one or with all team members. Set up regular meetings to monitor progress and discuss issues.

Building Team Spirit and Productivity

Running a team of freelancers is different from running an office. Freelancers work in their own time and may have other work. Discuss and negotiate deadlines with team members and get their buy-in. Be careful to keep to your own deadlines; there’s nothing more frustrating to a freelancer than waiting for information while the clock is ticking. Develop working relationships through mentoring, coaching, and constructive feedback. Go out of your way to make freelancers feel they’re valued and respected.

How to Pay Freelancers

Before hiring, evaluate your payment options as you’ll need to pay freelancers in their currency. Freelancer job boards often have their own payment service or you can choose a third-party payment service. Make certain your choice is available in your employees' countries. Remitly deposits money straight into freelancers' bank accounts or, in some countries, they can pick up cash. From the U.S. to the Dominican Republic, Remitly doesn’t charge anything for the first transaction and guarantees high exchange rates.

Organizing Your Business

If you’re starting from scratch, you may need to register your business. The easiest way is a limited liability company. An LLC protects your personal assets, and because it acts as a pass-through entity, it simplifies taxation. You have less paperwork than a corporation and no board of directors. Setting up is relatively simple, although each state has its requirements. You can do it yourself or use an LLC formation service.

Solving Recruitment Issues with a Freelancing Team

Finding talent for your projects has never been easier through online job boards. Although managing and motivating freelancers requires careful thought, you will get results faster and payment is easy through one of the many online payment platforms.

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