Since small businesses are generally trying to stay lean, owners and workers in them tend to wear multiple hats. But there are certain services for which outsourcing is actually a better financial decision in the long run. Here are some of the questions small business owners most frequently ask regarding outsourcing, along with some advice (spoiler alert: The answer to each question is a qualified yes).
- Do I Need an Accountant for My Small Business?
If you’re even asking yourself “Do I need an accountant for my small business?” then the answer is probably yes. Unless you’re extremely familiar with financial laws, you’ll probably lose money by trying to do everything related to managing your money. You can hire a specific accountant for small businesses who will probably have some money-saving accounting tips and tricks, and it’s absolutely vital that you outsource tax preparation to a professional in order to avoid financial risk.
- Do I Need an Answering Service for My Small Business?
When you’re first starting out, you might have no choice but to give business contacts your personal cell number. But one service you should consider adding as you grow is a professional answering service. Not only does this give your callers a more professional impression (as if you had a receptionist), it allows you some extra privacy between your business and home lives.
- Do I Need an Editor for My Small Business?
If your print materials go to clients, then the bottom line is that you need an editor. If no one on your team has that training, it’s generally very affordable to hire a freelance editor who charges by the word, page or project.
- Do I Need a Social Media Team for My Small Business?
The value of social media is often overstated, and there’s absolutely no need to hire a team to be on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest and Instagram 24/7. It is, however, worth investing in an agency that identifies the social media most used by your target market and helps you reach them.
- Do I Need a Designer for My Small Business?
People tend to over-estimate their design skills. While a small business might not need to have personalized stationery, it’s a good idea to invest in professional logo and business card design, since an amateurish look makes your entire business seem less credible.
Are there other questions you’d like to ask regarding outsourcing? That’s what the comments are for!