Finding the Right Consultant or Freelancer
CareerBuilder recently surveyed 2,700 employers and results show 30 percent anticipate hiring freelancers or contractors in 2010, up slightly from 28 percent in 2009. So, as an overworked manager, how do you get help without creating more headaches than you already have? And what’s at risk if you get it wrong?
Mine Your Address Book: See who you already know who might be available. They might not have the exact skills and experience you need, but you already know them and may be familiar with their work. Keep in mind however, if the project is mission-critical, it’s usually not worth it to “try” someone just because they are available right now.
Post to a Free Job Board: Free is good. But you still need to screen for out-of-work wanna-bes who are applying to any and all posted jobs. KIT List and Craigslist are two examples of free job listings, but don’t be surprised if unemployed engineers who worked with marketing are responding to your post for marketing help.
Pay for an Ad: Professional organizations like PRSA and IABC have national and regional chapter job boards. But Bill Warren, former president of Monster.com, one of the leading internet job search sites, admits most employment websites are too expensive for clients and aren’t fruitful for applicants. Warren is starting from scratch on a new job search concept. The problem: it’s still an automated web-based system that relies on exceedingly busy clients to narrow the search using technology.
Search LinkedIn: You can do a search based on job titles and keywords in your geographic area, but it still takes time to check the availability of each candidate. Verifying the accuracy of their achievements and experience is also a daunting, time-consuming chore. And are you ready to bet your career on the consultant who says they wrote amazing speeches for C-level execs?
Call an expert to find your expert: Clients want to work with the absolute right people, not just a keyword match. And there is no software yet that can detect real human chemistry or B.S. Clients call high-touch agents like High Tech Connect who understand the difference between internal and employee communications, white papers and tech briefs, and ITIL, SOX and SaaS. Reputable agencies also take care of work statements, background checks, taxes and insurance; offer employee benefits and ensure timely and accurate payment to freelancers. And you only pay if the agent finds your perfect match.
Many expert consultants sign with agencies because they appreciate being able to concentrate on their projects without the administrative headaches and payment hassles. High Tech Connect is proud to represent 1300 of the nation’s best marketing and communications professionals — and to work with outstanding clients from coast to coast.
If you want to focus on your core business and can’t afford the time to find a perfect consultant on your own, drop us a line.
