I was reviewing my “Subcontracting Made Simple” notes yesterday in preparation for a presentation I’m giving next week. It occurred to me that while I discuss the pros and cons of working with a subcontractor I have not mentioned what qualities I look for when I’m hiring a new subcontractor (team members in my VA business).
One item you won’t find on the following list is training. I do not believe in training my subcontractors. I believe that they should come to me fully trained in their respective niches or skill set and ready to accept that first assignment – just like my clients expect of me.
Here are the qualities I consider “must-haves” in hiring and working with a subcontractor:
1. Professionalism
2. Reliable
3. Stable
4. Confident
5. Skilled
6. Committed
7. Team player
8. Experienced
9. Willing to learn
10. Open to suggestions
11. Creative and innovative
12. Proactive
13. Follows directions
14. Asks questions
15. Organized
16. Easy to communicate with
17. Versed in the current technology
This list could be used to identify the type of clients I work best with too!
Because my subcontractors are independents with their own businesses it only makes sense to me that they would possess these qualities and utilize them in their own businesses.
On the flip side what makes a good contractor? Here’s what my subcontractor’s say is important to them:
1. Steady work flow
2. Professional
3. Organized
4. Pays well and on time
5. Sets realistic turnaround
6. Understanding and compassionate
7. Has resources
8. Proactive
9. Excellent reputation
10. Matches subcontractor skills to project
11. Stands up for subcontractors
12. Reliable
13. Communicative
14. Easy to work with
There you have it; a starting point for negotiation from both sides.
Growing your business using subcontractors is really easy to implement but it does take planning. I’ve been on both sides, subcontractor (which is basically what I am to my clients) and contractor. I try to be respectful of both situations. Working with subcontractors for past 15 years has been very rewarding and extremely profitable.
I like this list. It is not one-sided. That is appreciated. I work as a contractor and a sub and hope I possess most of the qualities you list. If I don’t then I try to work on them everyday.
Comment by Vicky — February 9, 2008 @ 5:02 pm
As a subcontactor only this list is very helpful. If you have suggestions for the best places to meet with those VAs in need of a little extra help let me know.
Comment by Collette Schultz — January 27, 2009 @ 2:10 am
I am seeking information about subcontracting for small Virtual Assistant services wanting to do so with larger VA companies. I would like to know generally what are the services that they usually hire for and a list if possible of companies that have divisions or subsidiaries that hire VA services. Please email. Thank you.
Comment by Carla High — February 6, 2009 @ 4:27 am