Hiring an offshore team for your business is a great way to boost your efficiency and increase your bottomline. With the advantages far outweighing the hassle, there are still a few things to keep in mind before getting started.

1. You’re going to have to step up your communication

At least at the beginning, frequent communication is a must when hiring an offshore team. This doesn’t just mean touching base at your scheduled meetings, what we’re talking about is: regular checking-in, showing an interest and creating integration from the get-go.

2. Be clear and effective in how you communicate

Remember, the person you are working with may speak English as their second, third or fourth language. So don’t beat around the bush when explaining yourself and don’t use idioms like that one! Be patient and remember a little effort goes a long way.

3. Choose the countries you hire from with intention

With the above mentioned in mind, do your research in what you are looking for and what countries best fit your profile. Things to consider might be: average level of English; technical specialities; number of technical institutes; timezone; cultural approach to work etc.

4. Integration every step of the way

Make sure you off-shore staff know what is your big-picture plan. Even if they are contracted to complete just a small part of the overall project – keep them in the loop. If they know what is driving the work they’re doing, you’re increasing the chances of having your expectations met.

5. Keep your expectations reasonable

That said, keep your expectations reasonable. Treat your offshore team with the same respect and patience you do your on-shore…and then allow for some initial mishaps in terms of miscommunication, technical difficulties and time zone confusions. Patience is key.

6. Hire with consistency

If you know what you’re looking for in your on-shore staff, the same values should extend to your offshore team. Keep thing cohesive and know what you’re looking for. This will make communication and integration a whole lot easier.

7. Leverage technology

Tech tools and cloud computing are your new best friend. Even if you choose to begin by just using Google docs, make sure protocols are in place. There is nothing more frustrating than someone messing with the template doc!

8. Time zone and work days

Keep in mind what timezone you will be working with and adjust schedules accordingly – make sure there is reasonable overlap in the working day! Don’t expect people to work on YOUR time. Everyone has the right to be able to clock-off (and on) at a reasonable hour.

9. You tend to pay for what you get

Offshoring will save your business a lot of buck! But the same goes as always: price will represent experience. This also provides a lot of opportunity for businesses starting out, who don’t want nor can afford, an expert.

10. You’ve made the right decision

Offshoring is a great way to give your business the boost in a way that onshore options cannot offer. You will be opening a wide range of possibilities and futures by going offshore with your business. Growing your business is no easy task, that’s why enlisting the help of a professional for this next step could save you a lot of heartache.

Hunt and Hawk make going offshore a whole lot smoother. We can hire, on-board, develop and organise your whole team of offshorers. You’ll be asking yourself why you didn’t do it sooner.

Talk about your business’s offshore options today at a free consultation with a Hunt and Hawk specialist. Let’s expand horizons together!