The world of event entertainment is rapidly evolving, and as DJs and multi-op owners, we must evolve with it. One of the most significant shifts in recent years has been the rise of remote work. Virtual assistants (VAs) and freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr have made accessing global talent easier than ever. But diving into remote work can be daunting, especially for those accustomed to handling everything in-house.
In this blog post, we’ll break down insights from industry experts David Osborne and Matt Radicelli (with Mentor Pods) on how event entertainment businesses can effectively integrate remote workers to streamline operations, boost creativity, and save time. Whether you’re hiring for bookkeeping, graphic design, or admin tasks, these actionable tips will help you get started confidently.
Why Remote Work is a Game-Changer
Remote work platforms like Upwork and Fiverr allow you to:
- Access a global pool of talent at competitive rates.
- Delegate tasks outside your expertise or capacity.
- Focus on your strengths, like growing your business and wowing clients.
Best Practices for Hiring Remote Workers
Here’s how to successfully dip your toes into the remote work waters:
1. Understand the Platforms
- Fiverr: Best for quick, task-based projects (e.g., logo design, video editing).
- Upwork: Ideal for long-term or specialized roles (e.g., bookkeeping, project management).
2. Create a Solid RFP (Request for Proposal)
A well-written RFP sets clear expectations and saves time. Include:
- Who you are: Provide context about your business, such as the number of events you manage annually.
- What you need: Be specific about the task (e.g., “Clean up QuickBooks for the last 12 months and reorganize my chart of accounts”).
- Key deliverables: Outline what success looks like (e.g., “A detailed profit and loss statement”).
- Ideal candidate traits: Mention preferences like responsiveness, location, or experience level.
3. Filter Applicants Strategically
- Ratings and Reviews: Look for candidates with a 100% completion rate and strong testimonials.
- Completion Rates: Prioritize candidates with a proven track record.
- Test Assignments: Start with a small, paid project to evaluate responsiveness and quality.
4. Ensure Secure Collaboration
- Grant limited access when necessary (e.g., “read-only” permissions for bookkeeping software).
- Use secure platforms like Loom or Google Docs for sharing instructions.
Tips for Managing Remote Workers
1. Communication is Key
- Use clear, simple language, especially when working with contractors from different cultural backgrounds.
- Provide examples or Loom videos to illustrate complex tasks.
2. Start Small
- Test the waters with a non-critical project, such as proofreading your website or creating a flyer.
- Build trust before delegating sensitive tasks like financial management.
3. Hire Multiple Contractors for Creative Work
- For subjective tasks like logo design, hire 2–3 people for the same job and compare results. It’s worth the extra cost for better options.
4. Leverage Regional Strengths
- United States: Familiarity with American business practices, but higher costs.
- India: Cost-effective, but requires detailed instructions.
- Ukraine and the Philippines: Strong balance of affordability and Western work styles.
Overcoming Common Concerns
“How do I ensure they’re trustworthy?”
- Look for highly rated candidates with positive reviews.
- Use platforms with built-in protections, like milestone-based payments.
“What if I don’t know how to describe the task?”
- Consult an expert or peer for advice on crafting an RFP.
- Break complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
Actionable Steps to Get Started
- Define Your Needs: Identify a task you need help with (e.g., managing client data or designing social media posts).
- Choose a Platform: Decide between Fiverr, Upwork, or specialized services like 99designs.
- Write an RFP: Use the template above to clearly articulate your requirements.
- Post the Job: Sort applications based on ratings and completion rates.
- Start Small: Hire for a small task to test the waters before scaling up.
Why Remote Work Matters for DJs
As Gerry Siracusa from Golden Note Entertainment wisely noted, the remote work landscape is underutilized in our industry. By embracing these practices, you can save time, reduce stress, and focus on what you do best—creating unforgettable experiences for your clients.
