How can you communicate your expectations to an outsourced team?

1 Define the scope

The first step is to clearly define the scope of the project, including the objectives, deliverables, milestones, and budget. You should also specify the roles and responsibilities of each party, the communication channels and frequency, and the feedback and approval process. Having a detailed and written scope of work will help you avoid misunderstandings, scope creep, and conflicts later on.

2 Set the standards

The next step is to set the standards for the quality and performance of the work. You should communicate your expectations for the format, style, accuracy, and completeness of the deliverables, as well as the metrics and indicators that you will use to measure the results. You should also provide examples, guidelines, and best practices that the outsourced team can follow. Setting the standards will help you ensure consistency, alignment, and satisfaction with the work.

3 Communicate regularly

The third step is to communicate regularly with the outsourced team throughout the project. You should establish a regular schedule and format for updates, reports, and meetings, and use tools like email, phone, chat, or video conferencing to stay in touch. You should also provide constructive feedback, praise, and recognition when appropriate, and address any issues or concerns promptly. Communicating regularly will help you build trust, rapport, and collaboration with the outsourced team.

4 Monitor the progress

The fourth step is to monitor the progress of the project and the performance of the outsourced team. You should track the status of the deliverables, the adherence to the timeline and budget, and the achievement of the objectives. You should also use data and analytics to evaluate the quality and impact of the work, and identify any gaps or areas for improvement. Monitoring the progress will help you ensure accountability, transparency, and efficiency with the outsourced team.

5 Adjust as needed

The fifth step is to adjust your expectations and communication as needed according to the feedback, results, and changes that occur during the project. You should be flexible and open to new ideas, suggestions, and solutions that the outsourced team may offer, and respect their expertise and experience. You should also be willing to renegotiate the scope, budget, or timeline if necessary, and communicate any changes clearly and promptly. Adjusting as needed will help you cope with uncertainty, complexity, and innovation with the outsourced team.

6 Celebrate the success

The final step is to celebrate the success of the project and the outsourced team. You should acknowledge and appreciate their contributions, achievements, and learnings, and share the positive outcomes and feedback with them. You should also provide referrals, testimonials, or recommendations if possible, and maintain a good relationship for future collaboration. Celebrating the success will help you foster loyalty, motivation, and growth with the outsourced team.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?