Outsourcing is a fantastic way to increase your income while NOT doing the tedious work. I came to realization early last year that some things were just NOT going to get done unless I outsourced the work.

I spent $5400 on oDesk last year outsourcing tasks I didn’t want to do but that needed to be done.  

So what can you outsource? Anything! Basically the sky is the limit.

Here are some tasks I outsourced last year:
  • Articles
  • Software Development
  • Ebook Creation
  • Backlinks

There are many other things that you could outsource as well. 

I’ve had good and bad experiences. I’ve had writers send me back gibberish (absolute garbage articles). I’ve had workers just disappear in the middle of the job. I’ve heard every excuse possible as to why the work wasn’t completed on time.

On the other hand, I’ve found workers who do an outstanding job. I have had writers who go above and beyond what I was asking for, who complete jobs before they are due, and who’s work is truly amazing.

Using a freelance board like oDesk gives you the ability to hire for lower prices. This can be good and bad. All in all, outsourcing is well worth the hassle it can be to find good and reliable workers.

Here are some tips to help you when looking for workers:

1. Be very clear. It is so important that you are extremely clear on what you would like done. Ask if they clearly understand your instructions. Always be open to communication and let them know that you are available if they need to ask questions along the way.

2. Know your budget. First, figure out exactly what you need to outsource. You can’t go into outsourcing blind. It’s important that you make a return on your investment. So make sure you do some number crunching. If you’re spending more than you’re making – you’re headed for trouble.

3. Be stern. Don’t give second chances if the work they provided was not up to your standards. There are too many great workers out there. Cut your losses and find someone else. Yep, don’t be a push-over (as much as you can)! 🙂

I don’t just use oDesk for outsourcing work. Sometimes it makes sense to outsource backlinks to Backlink Philippines or buy blog commenting package from UltraSEOSolutions.

I also have hired Warriors on the Warrior Forum to do work for me. You can find a lot of great help there! Oh, I can’t leave out Fiverr. I’ve used people there to build links for me.

If you’re not outsourcing yet…why not? It’s just a matter of getting out there and doing it.

Overall, my experience with outsourcing has been great. It helps me get things done! It’s something I will continue to do that’s for sure. Outsourcing is definitely working smarter!

Do you outsource? What things have you learned?