As the old adage goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Knowing how to build a team is essential for achieving the maximum potential in your business or nonprofit organization. There are many routes for building a team, and this blog will cover the value of hiring independent contractors, how to find them, and how to keep them!

Independent Contractors v. Employees: The Benefits of Hiring Outside Team Members

Independent contractors and employees both have their benefits. You have to invest more into W2 employees, but you typically get more investment from them, too. You must pay to train them, and they hold a greater tax liability. With greater risk comes a greater reward. W2 employees have the potential to become a loyal, key part of your leadership team. 

On the flip side, independent contractors have a lot of benefits as well. No matter how many W2 employees you have, your business will need some outside team members. Accountants, lawyers, marking professionals, and business coaches are some people to consider bringing on board. Here are 4 benefits of independent contractors:

1. They Help You Expand Your Service Offerings

One of the primary advantages of hiring independent contractors is the ability to offer professional services that may have been previously out of reach. These individuals bring specialized skills and expertise to the table, allowing your business to diversify its offerings and cater to a broader range of clients (without having to invest in training a new employee). From specialized consulting services to niche market expertise, the right team members can open doors to new opportunities and revenue streams.

2. More Delegation = More Time

Independent contractors also empower you to delegate tasks and responsibilities that may lie outside your area of expertise. By entrusting critical functions to qualified professionals, you can focus your time and energy on strategic decision-making and business development. Whether it’s legal matters, financial management, or technical expertise, hiring the right team members ensures that every aspect of your business receives the attention it deserves.

3. They Amplify Your Reach

Beyond their individual contributions, outside team members bring valuable networks and connections with them. By virtue of their professional affiliations and industry relationships, they can effectively market your business through association and introduce you to new contacts and partners. These expanded networks not only enhance your visibility within your industry but also create opportunities for collaboration and growth.

4. Their Connections Help You Build Your Customer Base

Additionally, hiring key team members can help you better understand your target audience and identify untapped market segments. Through their interactions with clients and customers, they can provide valuable insights into consumer preferences, behaviors, and pain points. By leveraging this knowledge, you can tailor your products and services to meet the specific needs of your target demographic and maximize your competitive advantage.

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How to Build a Team: Where to Start

So, how do you go about identifying and recruiting key team members? It starts with a clear understanding of your business needs and objectives. Assess your key activities and determine the skill sets required to achieve your goals effectively. Whether it’s financial expertise, legal counsel, or industry-specific knowledge, identify the gaps in your current team and prioritize recruitment accordingly.

Always be on the lookout for good team members even if that role is already filled. Why? Industries change, people move on, and you should always have a backup plan. 

Once you know what positions you need to fill, good places to look for independent contractors are:

• Asking other vendors for recommendations
• Inquiring who your competitors use to fulfill routine tasks
• Surveying your sphere of influence
• Industry specific recruiting platforms (for example, if you need a copywriter, look at websites like Fiverr and Reedsy.)

How to Keep Good Team Members

Knowing how to keep a good team is just as important as knowing how to build a team. Proverbs 3:3-6 (NLT) says, “Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation.” The following tips will help you earn the favor and quality work of your valuable team members, both independent contractors and W2 employees.

1. Be Respectful of Their Time and Opinions

Respecting the time and opinions of your team members is crucial for fostering a positive and productive working relationship. It starts by acknowledging and valuing their expertise, experience, and perspectives. When seeking their input or assistance, be mindful of their workload and commitments, and avoid overburdening them with unnecessary tasks or requests.

Furthermore, create an environment where team members feel comfortable expressing their opinions and ideas openly. Encourage constructive feedback and dialogue, and actively listen to their input without judgment or bias. By showing genuine interest in their viewpoints, you demonstrate respect for their expertise and contribution to the team.

2. Be Honest

Honesty is the cornerstone of any successful professional relationship. If you encounter challenges or issues within the team, address them openly and honestly. Avoid sugar coating problems or sweeping issues under the rug; communicate clearly instead. Be honest about your expectations, goals, and concerns with your team members as well. 

3. Communicate Often

Effective communication is essential for maintaining strong relationships and achieving shared goals. Establish regular channels of communication with your team members, and make it a point to have face-to-face connection. If you have a larger team, invest time with your key leaders to build relationship AND get perspective on what’s happening in the downline. The goal is to have a pulse on every part of the organization. 

4. Thank Them!

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of appreciation and gratitude! Recognize and acknowledge the contributions of your team members regularly. Expressing gratitude boosts morale, motivation, and strengthens the bonds between team members and reinforces a culture of appreciation and respect.

Want to learn more about how to build a team for your business? Register for our FREE WealthBuilders Business Bootcamp! Everyone who attends 5-day intensive will be empowered with a biblical basis for business and walk away with a refreshed business plan.