The Secrets Behind Building and Managing a Successful Freelance Network

As a content manager, working with freelancers was initially a mixed bag of emotions. The uncertainty of receiving quality work or facing extensive revisions nagged at me with each new draft. The quest for that rare gem – a freelancer who could deliver exceptional content with minimal edits – kept me going.

Four years later, the journey led me to run HubSpot’s Freelance Network, boasting over 40 writers who create over 800 pieces annually. The program has transformed, offering specialized insights that enrich our audience’s growth.

Delving into the intricacies of building a successful freelance program has been a rewarding experience. Here are the key strategies that have helped us thrive.

Infrastructure is Key

Establishing a robust infrastructure to support freelancers at scale was paramount. Standardizing processes and providing effective training were at the core of our operations.

Investing in Personalized Training

Breaking down complex SOP documents into digestible sections and implementing a user-friendly onboarding course streamlined the training process for new writers. Customized Loom videos and on-demand resources enhanced their learning experience.

The result was faster onboarding, increased compliance, and reduced email inquiries, allowing us to focus on critical editorial tasks.

Making Processes Effortless

Standardizing assignments and providing all necessary resources upfront simplified the writing process for freelancers. By minimizing redundant tasks and centralizing information, writers could focus on crafting quality content.

A light-touch approach ensured that administrative challenges did not hinder their creativity.

Rethinking Content Briefs

Transforming content briefs to include detailed outlines and simplified instructions significantly improved the quality of first drafts. By providing clear direction and structure, writers produced more refined content with fewer revisions.

Translating technical jargon and providing context-rich briefs enabled freelancers to deliver articles that aligned seamlessly with our editorial standards.

The Intersection of AI and Authenticity

The advent of AI-driven content presented unique challenges, with an influx of automated submissions posing authenticity concerns. Implementing stringent checks and maintaining a zero-tolerance policy for AI-generated work ensured that human insights remained the cornerstone of our content.

Embracing E-E-A-T in Content Creation

The shift towards valuing expertise, experience, authority, and trustworthiness underscored the importance of collaborating with subject matter experts. By aligning our content strategy with Google’s core algorithm updates, we curated insightful pieces that resonated with our audience.

Embracing lived experiences, prioritizing quotes from industry professionals, and leveraging SMEs transformed our content landscape, driving engagement and relevance.

Lessons Learned and Best Practices

Reflecting on the evolution of our Freelance Network, several key learnings emerged:

1. Pay Fairly

Compensating writers competitively ensures quality work and fosters long-term partnerships.

2. Editorial Excellence

Incorporating editorial oversight enhances the quality and accuracy of content, ensuring alignment with brand standards.

3. Expertise Matters

Engaging subject matter experts enhances the authenticity and depth of content, elevating its impact on the audience.

4. Feedback Loop

Implementing a structured feedback system facilitates continuous improvement and allows for efficient content iteration.

5. Quality Over Quantity

Prioritizing skilled writers and fostering a culture of excellence yields superior content outcomes, enriching the audience experience.

Building and managing a successful Freelance Network transcends mere content creation; it’s an art of curation, showcasing unique perspectives and authentic insights. By prioritizing quality, authenticity, and expertise, you can craft a dynamic network that resonates with your audience and inspires genuine engagement.

Embrace the journey of curating your own content museum, where each piece tells a compelling story and captivates the imagination of your readers.