Increasingly, companies are choosing to work with remote freelancers. They often choose this because the freelancers have certain skills that are hard to find elsewhere. And since COVID-19, it has become clear that 100% remote working is also possible and that it certainly has its advantages. This has also been a deliberate choice for freelancers themselves, and for them one of the main reasons for being a freelancer will probably be their need for freedom and flexibility. But how do you make sure that even a freelancer who works completely remote feels involved in your business?
Discover some tips below.
Having a digital onboarding plan
Onboarding for a freelancer, is it really necessary? This is a consideration you obviously have to make for yourself. Your answer to this question will probably depend mainly on the size of the assignment you have hired the freelancer for. If he or she will be working for your company for some time, we encourage you to provide a digital onboarding.
The big advantage of such an online onboarding? Once you have created it, you can use it for all your freelancers. For example, you can provide an intro yourself, and afterwards you can provide the necessary documents and websites so they can check them out themselves. Furthermore, you are of course always available for any questions.
The most important thing to share is how your organisation works and what the expectations are.
Communication is key
These days, staying in touch from a distance is not at all difficult. There are plenty of tools available. More important will be to make clear agreements around how and when you can be reached. It is also important to focus on efficient communication.
Thanks to good communication, your company can build long-term relationships and a freelancer will feel welcome in your team. Further encourage friendships by also providing informal contact moments where team members can get to know each other. That way, the freelancer is also more likely to share his knowledge with your employees. Win-win!
Culture for remote freelancers
While working with a remote freelancer is often easy and hassle-free, having a real culture for remote freelancers does take a bit more work.
Take the time to get to know your freelancers and understand what they bring of extra value. Schedule regular video calls with the whole team where, for example, each one takes turns explaining what his/her job entails. Also celebrate the successes achieved here and put in the spotlight from time to time. Recognition is important for everyone, including freelancers. Welcome new members and make sure they can introduce themselves to the team. Further encourage them to communicate openly and honestly, even when the topic is rather negative. Further, give them a chance to meet in person and be part of team activities.
Writen by Peggy Storme, BrainTower Consultant.
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