A framework for successful freelancer engagements

I've hired 15 freelancers for my side project. If you've struggled with freelancers, read on.

Hiring freelancers is a source of leverage. However, leverage also magnifies risk. Set your engagement up for success and avoid losing time and money.

Here's my framework for successful engagements.

But I want to build it all myself...!

Take advantage of the leverage you get from hiring a freelancer. Doing it once will help you overcome common challenges:

• You don't want to waste time explaining the project to someone
• You don't have experience managing the process
• You want control of the creative process

Use a repeatable process to overcome these challenges and make progress.

Step 1: Invest time up front developing your requirements

Thoroughly document the current state of the project and desired future state.

Create a slide deck that describes your project, objectives, current state and desired future state, scope, and deliverables. Use the deck to interview freelancers and improve it based on their questions and feedback. Once you select a freelancer, use the deck to help build the contract.

Step 2: Host standups every working day

Use standups to dive deep into progress and surface blockers.

Stay focused on progress against your backlog. Remove blockers to progress immediately. Most importantly, hold your freelancer accountable. If her plan is to finish a task today, quiz her on her progress tomorrow.

Step 3: Talk about the desired objective constantly

Don't lose sight of the objective by focusing on the day-to-day details.

Make a habit of reiterating the objective at least once per week. I generally do this during weekly sprint planning. This gives your freelancer autonomy to make high-frequency decisions instead of coming to you every time.