We aren’t saying you shouldn’t consider outsourcing certain aspects of your business. As we discussed in this article, there are some tasks that could be outsourced, and your business could benefit as a consequence.
However…don’t outsource for the wrong reasons.
Don’t outsource because you can’t be bothered to do certain things yourself. And don’t outsource just because other businesses do it. While effective outsourcing can profit your business, you might also have the opportunity to save money in your business by not outsourcing.
Here are the reasons why.
#1: You can easily reduce your workload
Many business owners outsource because of their ever-increasing workloads. With only so many hours in the day to do everything, it is common practice for some to offload certain tasks to outside firms, as this can be an easy way to free up desk space and time. However, it is possible to reduce your workload without having to pay somebody else to manage certain facets of your business.
For starters, you could simply do less. Not every task will be a daily priority, so if you can manage your time and schedules better, you will make life easier for yourself.
Secondly, you could automate some of your business processes. By using intelligent automation software, you could streamline your day and get through much of your to-do list a lot quicker.
And finally, as we shall see in our next point, you could delegate to people on your team too. So, think twice before outsourcing, as there are ways to manage your workloads without paying outside firms to do it for you.
#2: You could delegate to your employees
Now, if they are already overworked, then you might want to consider outsourcing. Your poor employees won’t be very happy if extra work lands on their desk. However, if you have people on your team who have the skills needed for some of your business tasks, and if you can slot these responsibilities into their job descriptions without burning them out, then delegate to them. You might also send them on the relevant training courses if they don’t have the necessary skills, as both you and they will benefit from the learning acquired.
Your employees might be happy to take on new roles within your business, as not only will they get to experience new challenges, but they will have more to add to their resumes too. If these roles also form part of a promotion, then they might gladly take up the offer. So, get to know your employees, and consider the option if they are willing to do more in your business, as you might save money in the long-term.
#3: You could take on more hires
Okay, so you know hiring an employee can be expensive. You have wages to pay, benefits to consider, and there are other financial implications. However, if there are certain tasks within your business that are a constant, it might be cheaper in the long term to take on new hires, rather than paying the expensive rates sometimes charged by outsourced firms. You will also have your new employees to hand when you need them, and that can’t always be said about outsourced firms who are sometimes difficult to reach during their busy periods.
So, here’s the thing. Outsourcing can be the right answer for some. However, don’t assume that is your only option, as you might be able to come up with another solution to better profit your business. Weigh up the pros and cons, and then come to the best decision for your company.