The business world has changed. Are you all caught up yet? For one thing, the days are over where companies—especially small businesses—are supposed to do everything themselves. At least, if you want to scale your business and catch up to the big brands, outsourcing should already be on your radar.
But what is safe to outsource? Is it really practical? Yes! From shipping container transport management to letting someone else interview your next employee, it can all happen without robbing you of time and energy anymore.
Here’s all you need to know.
Why Outsource?
A primary reason to ask others to take over some tasks is so you and your existing team can focus on what you’re really good at. This also means you don’t have to place your budget under pressure by appointing more staff members to help with work you’re not getting to. Especially if the task doesn’t require a full-time employee yet, it’s a much more efficient option.
When you start thriving because you have experts in every department—whether in-house or outsourced—it means the company as a whole will grow faster. And don’t worry about the expenses because most companies that use outsourcing report a reduction in general costs and an improvement in terms of ROI.
So, what should you consider outsourcing? Some of these may surprise you, but it’s worth it!
Tasks to Start Outsourcing NOW
Transport and Logistics
If you’re promising your clients a swift delivery of their purchases, you need experts organising the process. Luckily there are companies who offer end-to-end transport and logistics services. Whether you’re an exporter, have a small ecommerce company using dropshipping or you simply need container fumigation services after importing stock, rather trust the experts. They keep services on time and know how to ensure outcomes align with legislative guidelines.
Accounting and/or Bookkeeping
Don’t feel nervous sharing your numbers with a third party. It’s actually the best possible option in many cases, since you can also get objective feedback on your financial reports, your business decisions and future planning. That is, if you use the right company that has experts on team.
You can choose what will work for you. Will you do bookkeeping in house and outsource the rest to an accountant that will supply monthly reports? Alternatively, leave everything in the hands of experts to limit the chance of mistakes. Not all secretaries may have a passion for keeping the books up to date, and this is one area where you can’t risk chaos.
Also discuss your tax with an accounting company. They know how to help you make the most of tax benefits you may be eligible for. And with someone keeping filing and payments up to date, you’ll never pay a penalty fee again.
Research
From marketing research to getting data relevant to a new product design, don’t weigh down your team with all the work on top of their current responsibilities. Research companies exist that specialise in different niches, so expert researchers can do the work on your behalf.
Creative Tasks
In between working with customers and checking off items on the to do list, you and your team may not have the time or inspiration to get creative. Rather leave more creative tasks to experts. It will also require less editing, speeding up the process as a result. Vital tasks in this category that you can outsource include:
- Writing content for your website
- Designing marketing flyers and other advertising paraphernalia
- Graphic design work
- Web design
Marketing
Even marketing as a whole can be shifted outside the company. Yes, you know your audience, but marketers know how to speak to their pain points. As long as you provide them with detail of your target audience, they can create efficient advertising campaigns.
Also trust these experts with SEO and web optimisation, so your digital presence helps you get noticed. Remember, modern consumers search online, so you need to be easy to find on the World Wide Web.
Human Resources
Did you know your team can be managed by an exterior company? For events like hearings, this takes the pressure off you. There’s no chance of vibes between co-workers because the HR manager had to fire someone this week. Also, during a hiring process you’ll save a considerable amount of time since you’ll no longer work through resumes and do multiple interviews. You’ll simply be involved in the final decision making.
Final Thoughts
When you think about it, almost any task can be outsourced these days. Instead of an IT department, talk to experts about your IT infrastructure and data storage. Even for managing your calendar with a virtual assistant or saving money by using an external factory for manufacturing, you’d be surprised at the time and cost saving opportunities.
So, what is your biggest challenge at the moment? Can someone else help carry the load?
If you have questions or success stories, please share below.