From Harvard Business Review, Amy Gallo provides excellent advice for managing freelancers and independent contractors. She recommends investing in the relationship, making them feel part of the team and giving feedback but not micromanaging so as to preserve their autonomy. She summarizes her advice with the following principles to remember:
Principles to Remember
Do:
- Ask what they are looking for from the arrangement
- Invest time in getting to know them
- Make them feel like they are part of the team and that their work is valued
Don’t:
- Neglect to give them feedback on how they’re performing
- Assume yours is the only project they’re working on—freelancers often have multiple commitments
- Skimp on paying them what they’re worth—you’ll get a reputation and other contractors may be unwilling to work with you
Read the full story at 7 Tips for Managing Freelancers and Independent Contractors