Thinking about a new outsourcing partner? Lauren Kochan, SEBPO’s CSO, explains the questions you need to ask.
PUBLISH DATE: 12/01/2024
READTIME: 3 minutes
Share on
Working with the right outsourcing partner can help you streamline operations, optimize costs, and tap into specialized expertise. Finding the right partner, however, can be a daunting task. When you start your search, it’s essential to ask the right questions during the evaluation process. Doing this upfront empowers you to confidently embark on a partnership that brings your business efficiency and enhanced value. To get you started, SEBPO’s Chief Strategy Officer and Forbes Technology Council Member, Lauren Kochan, provides her top four questions to ask when vetting a new outsourcing partner:
If you value a people-first approach, this is the best place to begin. Kochan says the first thing she would do is talk to the outsourcing partner’s other clients and ask:
“Partnerships with outsourcing companies go south when they take things for granted or they are not really interested in making the partnership successful,” says Kochan.
Outsourcing companies may stumble when they haven’t offered the service. You’ll want to make sure they have successfully provided this service before. Look for a company that can walk you through live examples of the requested task or project.
Some outsourcing companies may present you with a qualified team, but do they really understand what you’re doing and why you need outsourcing? When vetting a new outsourcing partner, ensure they understand your:
“If you aren’t confident in the partnership during the RFP process, then they definitely can’t execute the transition process,” adds Kochan.
Your outsourcing partner should have all the necessary requirements in place. They will truly be an outsourcing company—not just someone who fills seats—with proper credentials and certifications.
Beyond that, how stable is the company, how are they funded, and have they had major legal trouble? Looking ahead, what happens if the outsourcing company gets acquired, shut down, or purchased? How will your business be affected?
Kochan says people are often too afraid to ask these big questions, but they’re crucial to vetting a new outsourcing partner at the outset of a partnership.
By asking strategic and relevant questions at the start of the relationship, you can gain a deeper understanding of a potential provider’s capabilities and expertise, foster transparency, and build trust.
Investing time and effort in the vetting process will pay off. It ensures a mutually beneficial and long-lasting partnership that drives growth, innovation, and competitive advantage.
Have more questions about vetting a new outsourcing partner or starting your outsourcing journey? Check out SEBPO’s FAQ, which is filled with answers, and get in touch today to see how you can leverage a SEBPO Team.
