How to Hire a Freelancer

The internet is brimming with freelancers who can help you with web and graphic designing. The problem is that it can seem like everyone is playing by different rules.

Let’s demystify some of the top questions business owners have about how to hire a freelancer.

What should I look for in a freelancer’s portfolio?

Experienced freelancers should have a portfolio with samples of their work. Here’s what to look for:

• Type

  A great logo and an awesome website require different skills. If the freelancer hasn’t worked on the type of project you need, ask how they would approach the work.
  
  

• Tone

  If you’re looking for a web developer to create a website that feels friendly and laid-back, beware a portfolio full of corporate-looking, formal work. Ideally, you’ll see strong samples in a range of styles. This is a good sign that the freelancer is versatile and adaptable.
  
  

• Topic

  Are there examples of previous work in your industry? If you need a tech copywriter and the portfolio is mostly travel websites, the freelancer may not have the expertise you need. An inexperienced designer might go for cliches.

Lack of experience in any one of these isn’t a deal breaker but a sign to ask more questions. You want to hear enthusiasm for your project and qualifications that might not be reflected in the portfolio.

How do I make sure the freelancer and I are on the same page?

The project will go much more smoothly if the freelancer understands what you want. The more clear information you can give about the assignment, the better.

Communicate your expectations about the work process, too. Do you expect status updates? What’s the best way to reach you with follow-up questions? Be open to figuring out a system that works for both of you.

Note

Be careful about asking for onsite meetings or availability at specific hours. The more control you have over when and where the freelancer works, the more likely it is that the government will consider them an employee instead, which could leave you responsible for taxes and penalties.

Do I need a contract?

Yes! Working with a contract protects both you and the freelancer.

If you found the freelancer through a major site, there’s often a contract agreement in place already. If you’re working with an individual freelancer, you may need to draft one together. You don’t need to have a lawyer write it or set up anything fancy. You can find templates online.

In a pinch, even an email chain can hold up legally. Include details about:

• The piece’s timeline, including draft and revision deadlines
  
  
• How many revisions are included
  
  
• Price and payment structure
  
  
• Project scope
  
  
• Rights
  
  
• Confidentiality agreements

How much should I pay a freelancer?

This is one of the toughest questions to handle when you are looking to hire a freelancer. With rates ranging from pennies to several dollars per project, it’s hard to know what’s fair. Working with freelancers allows you to work in the global economy. You’re not necessarily bound to any particular minimum rate.

That said, as with pretty much anything, you get what you pay for. Seeking out experienced, reliable workers is going to be better for your business than looking for bottom-of-the-barrel rates.

Freelancers charge either hourly or by project. Project rates are nice because they’re predictable. They don’t penalise the freelancer for working quickly and don’t penalise a business owner, if the freelancer has an off day and takes longer to get the job done. A benefit of hourly rates is it’s easier to discuss changes to the scope or number of revisions for a project, since you’ve already agreed on the rate of pay.

As for what that rate of pay is? It’s going to vary. The freelancer’s experience and expertise, project complexity and timetable, and the project’s ultimate value to you all affect price. The important thing is finding someone who understands what you need for your company.

SOURCE: 99 Designs