Subcontracting as a Freelancer
TL;DR:
- Subcontracting helps you take on bigger projects and meet tight deadlines
- Be upfront with clients about using subcontractors from the start
- Your contracts need to explicitly allow subcontracting
- Vet your subcontractors properly to protect your reputation
- Clear agreements prevent disputes and confusion later
Subcontracting means hiring other freelancers or businesses to handle parts of your projects. It's a practical way to grow your business without turning away work or missing deadlines.
Why Subcontract Work?
The main reason is capacity. You can only work so many hours or handle so many projects at once. Subcontracting lets you say yes to more opportunities.
You might also need skills you don't have. If you're a web designer who lands a project requiring custom development, bringing in a developer makes sense rather than turning the work away.
Benefits include:
- Taking on larger projects worth more money
- Meeting multiple deadlines without working ridiculous hours
- Accessing skills and tools you don't personally have
- Building a network of trusted professionals for future projects
Finding Good Subcontractors
Start with people you already know and trust. Your professional network is often the best source of reliable help.
If you need to look elsewhere, check freelance platforms, industry forums, and ask other freelancers for recommendations. Just don't pick the cheapest option without doing your homework.
When vetting potential subcontractors:
- Review their portfolio thoroughly
- Ask for references from recent clients
- Start with a small test project if possible
- Check they can meet your deadlines and quality standards
- Confirm they have the right tools and software
Being Transparent with Clients
Some freelancers try to hide that they're subcontracting work. This usually backfires and damages trust when clients find out.
Be honest from the start. Explain why you're bringing someone else in and how it benefits the project. Most clients care about results, not whether you do every single task yourself.
Your client contract should explicitly allow subcontracting. Without this permission, you could be breaking your agreement even if the work gets done perfectly.
Setting Up Subcontractor Agreements
A solid contract protects both you and your subcontractor. It should cover:
Scope and deadlines: What work they're doing and when it's due
Payment terms: How much and when you'll pay them
Quality standards: What level of work you expect
Communication: How often you'll check in and get updates
Confidentiality: Protecting client information and project details
Intellectual property: Who owns the work they create
Don't rely on handshake agreements or brief email exchanges. Put everything in writing to avoid problems later.
Managing the Relationship
Stay involved throughout the project. You're still responsible for delivering quality work to your client, even if someone else is doing parts of it.
Set up regular check-ins to review progress and catch any issues early. Be available to answer questions and provide guidance when needed.
Remember, if the subcontractor delivers poor work or misses deadlines, your client will blame you, not them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not getting client permission first: This can void your contract and destroy trust
Choosing based on price alone: Cheap often means poor quality or unreliable delivery
Poor communication: Leaving subcontractors to figure things out alone usually leads to problems
No backup plan: What happens if your subcontractor can't deliver?
Forgetting about taxes: You may need to handle tax paperwork for payments to subcontractors
FAQs
Do I need to tell clients I'm subcontracting work?
Yes, always be transparent. Your contract should explicitly allow subcontracting, and clients should know who's working on their project.
How do I find reliable subcontractors?
Start with your professional network, then try reputable freelance platforms. Always check portfolios and references before hiring anyone.
What happens if my subcontractor delivers poor work?
You're still responsible to your client. Build quality checks into your process and have backup plans ready.
Should I mark up the subcontractor's fees?
Yes, you're managing the project and taking responsibility. A reasonable markup covers your time and risk.
Jargon Buster
Subcontracting: Hiring other freelancers or businesses to handle specific parts of your client projects
Prime contractor: You, as the main freelancer responsible to the client
Work for hire: Legal term meaning the client owns the intellectual property created
Net payment terms: When you'll pay subcontractors (like "Net 30" meaning within 30 days)
Wrap-up
Subcontracting lets you grow your freelance business beyond what you can personally deliver. The key is being selective about who you work with, transparent with clients, and keeping proper contracts in place.
Start small with trusted professionals and build your network over time. Done right, subcontracting creates win-win situations for everyone involved.
Ready to level up your freelance business? Join Pixelhaze Academy for more practical business advice.