Outsourcing is an area where lots of businesses struggle. Initially, it’s the struggle to find a suitable person to take on the workload. Then there’s the struggle associated with training and ensuring they’re up to the standard you want. But the biggest struggle of all, is learning to let go and actually hand over the work to someone else, in the first place!

Learning to let go and trust someone else with your projects and tasks is a big step. It’s understandable that we find it so difficult. However, it’s a key element of the outsourcing process. So, here’s how you can make it less stressful for yourself.

Get clear on your workflows and processes

Before you outsource anything, you need to be clear yourself, on what it is that you’re outsourcing. There are a lot of tasks we complete in an average day that we do on autopilot. We also have experience and knowledge about subjects that other people may not have – yet we assume they know. For some of us, we may even know we’re busy, but aren’t sure what is taking up our time. Therefore, you need to get clear on what it is that you do, prior to outsourcing to anyone.

Write down the systems and processes you use, the workflows you follow and any specifics that are unique to you. Not only does this give you a clearer idea of what you can outsource, it also gives you a set procedure that you can pass to someone else – making it easier for whomever you’re outsourcing to, to do the tasks required of them.

Learn how to effectively communicate your outsourcing needs

A good outsourcing relationship is one that’s built on effective communication. Part of the reason we may struggle to let go when outsourcing, is our fears that the task may not get done properly or right. Effectively communicating your desires is key to solving this fear. This means not only giving clear instructions, but also ensuring the other person understands, so don’t be afraid to ask them to clarify – but also give them plenty of opportunities to ask questions, if needed – and always give them clear deadlines for completion too.

Start small and grow

Our businesses are precious to us and, for many, that also means we feel we’re the only ones who can do the tasks within that business right. If this is a reason why you’re not letting go of those tasks, start small. Start by handing out a few tasks and ensure they’re completed to your satisfaction, prior to handing over more.

Have regular reviews

As mentioned earlier, communication is key. Holding regular reviews with your outsourcing team is a great way to ensure both sides of the team are happy with the tasks, the communication and how effectively they’re working together.

Don’t micro-manage!

When you’ve passed over a task, actually hand it over! Checking up every 12 hours is only going to let your outsourcing team know you don’t trust them. If you’ve effectively communicated your needs, passed over instructions on your preferred way of completing the task, along with a clear deadline and have checked they understand, step back and let them do their work.

If you’re really struggling with letting go of your outsourcing tasks, set a review meeting in your calendar prior to the deadline, to give additional time to rectify things, if they’re not on course. And finally, trust your own communication skills – if you’ve done your part, your outsourcer will have everything they need, to complete theirs.

If you’re looking into outsourcing tasks for your business, why not take that first step, and jump on a phone call with someone from our team? Not only will it give you a chance to effectively communicate your outsourcing needs, you’ll also see if we’re a good fit to move your business forward! You’ll find our contact details here.