Companies are realizing more and more the value of doing what they do best and outsourcing business functions that are not a central part of the company’s services/products.
You probably got into business to focus on something you do extremely well, or to do something you love. As the business grew, so did the aspects that weren’t necessarily your core competencies.
A few months ago, we talked about small business trends we predicted would happen for 2014. One trend was the growth in creating partnerships with other companies, especially for outsourcing services.
Outsourcing is really an opportunity to shed the facets of your business that aren’t at the core of what you do. In fact, that work may be what another small business does extremely well and is equipped the do. So why not leverage their skills?
Outsourcing has been around for some time. Trends in outsourcing come and go, but the business environment is ripe for several services to gain popularity.
Small business outsourcing trends
Warehousing and Inventory
Warehousing and fullfillment is becoming increasingly necessary for small businesses. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Managing a warehouse, keeping inventory and fulfillment require personnel, time and an investment in the necessary resources. Many small businesses may not be able to make those investments early on. Businesses like On Time Logistics have made that investment and have the specialized knowledge.
Mobile App Development
There’s plenty of “DIY” app development programs but to really get it done right, that function should be outsourced. We at OTL will soon have our own customer app! (Photo credit: Eileen M. Kane)
With so much of the population dependent on their mobile devices, more small businesses are savvy about reaching those potential customers. However, very few have the expertise to develop specialized apps to reach customers.
We at On Time Logistics will have more information in coming weeks, but we too are outsourcing the development of an app to better serve our customers.
Using social media can help you bridge the gap to customers when there is an issue or help you find new customers, or even help you create a loyal base. Make sure a developer can work with all the major platforms and has created multiple kinds of apps.
Human Resources
Human resources files can get unwieldy in a hurry! (Photo credit: City of Olathe, KS)
Human resources management takes a very specialized skillset and understanding of labor laws and regulations. Many small businesses may not be able to afford to have that specialized expertise on staff, or even need a full-time human resources leader.
One benefit to the recent recession is that many people with incredible skills and experience who are without work. Many turn to contract work and are available for hire and consulting. Talk with other small business owners to see if they are using a contract worker or if they know of one.
Customer Relations
customer service assistant on phone (Photo credit: ukCWCS)
Depending on your business, customer service may not be just nine-to-five. Social media gives customers – fans and foes alike – 24/7 access to a platform to sing your praises or to call you out. The industry standard, thus the customer expectation, is that they can reach you via social media or even phone pretty much most hours of the day (or night!) Unless you’re equipped to staff customer service around the clock, outsourcing this function may be a solid investment in growing and retaining your customer base.
Regardless of the services you outsource, be sure to check references. Ask fellow entrepreneurs about the services they outsource. Do you outsource services? What is working for you?
We encourage you to give On Time Logistics a call today to start outsourcing your courier, warehousing and other logistics needs.
