The Pros and Cons of U.S.-Based and Offshore Contractors for Small Businesses
At BELAY, we have a pool of nearly 1,500 highly vetted U.S.-based contractors that we place with our clients daily. These contractors are the real deal as our acceptance rate is lower than Harvard’s, and our clients continue to have success stories in their businesses and personal lives.
But what are some of the differences between U.S.-based and offshore contractors – and how can you be sure you’re choosing the right support for your growing business?
Here, we’ll demystify each.
What is a U.S.-Based Versus An Offshore Contractor?
A U.S.-based contractor and offshore contractor are similar in the sense of someone who is hired onto a team from a location other than your company’s location. Both options can benefit an organization.
And according to Law Insider, an offshore contractor is a contractor who is in a country that is not one of the fifty United States or a United States territory, such as American Samoa, Guam, Northern Marianas, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
The Pros and Cons of A U.S-Based Contractor vs. An Offshore Contractor
Pros of U.S.-Based Contractors
- U.S.-based contractors have the potential to save companies money.
- U.S.-based contractors have more availability and flexibility to help.
- U.S.-based contractors are experts in their field.
- There is a greater likelihood of English as a shared first language.
- A shared or similar time zone can mean quick, same-day communications with little delay.
- Face-to-face meetings are easier to schedule.
- There is often a higher quality of talent.
- Onshore companies are governed by U.S. regulations, providing more security.
- U.S.-based boasts a more relational model.
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Pros of Offshore Contractors
- Offshore contractors have the potential to save companies money.
- Offshore contractors have more availability and flexibility to help.
- Offshore contractors are experts in their field.
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Cons of U.S.-Based Contractors
- Outsourcing runs the risk of misaligned interests between the company and contractor.
Our solution at BELAY: Your Client Success Consultant will be there to help. You’ll work together to find a new match and keep your downtime to a minimum. If there are any minor hiccups, we will address them and find a solution.
- There is a complexity of onboarding and training your new contractor.
Our solution at BELAY: We have endless resources, templates, and worksheets to help you get the most out of your engagement from day one. Your Client Success Consultant will even provide solutions and ideas for when something isn’t working. They are your coach and resource for your entire time at BELAY.
- There is the potential challenge of building trust.
Our solution at BELAY: We provide resources for building and maintaining trust in your partnership with your contractor. Additionally, your Client Success Consultant is with you every step of the way to help you establish and build trust.
- There can be security concerns.
Our solution at BELAY: We understand how important it is to protect you and your sensitive information. All our contractors sign a Confidentiality Agreement to protect you and your business. If you would like any additional contracts, then we can discuss that. We highly recommend strong passwords and using a password manager to keep your accounts secure.
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Cons of Offshore Contractors
- There is the threat of geopolitical instability.
- Offshoring sends jobs out of the country.
- Offshoring risks language barriers.
- Offshoring risks poor communication due to too much of a time difference.
- The relationship between an offshore contractor and an organization is more task-based instead of relational.
- There is a threat of a lack of IP protection.
- There is often no security, confidentiality agreements, or nondisclosures provided through a contract.
- It can prove challenging to have control over quality and performance.
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Hire one of BELAY’s U.S.-Based Contractors For Greater Productivity
At BELAY, we offer a wide variety of U.S.-based contractors to help you grow your business.
Virtual Assistant Services
Dedicated professionals who bring their experience and expertise to your organization. They’re your personal superheroes. No phone booth required.
Accounting Services
Our Financial Specialists can provide you clear, simple and updated financial information, tax filing and preparation services, CFO and e-commerce support so you make better decisions.
Website Specialist Services
A great website is crucial for growth in today’s world, but handling it can be overwhelming. Our professional techies take care of the details so you don’t have to.
Social Media Manager Services
A Social Media Manager can help manage all of your unique social media needs and build a strong online presence to get you back to what you love most.
And the best part? Getting started is the easiest thing you’ll do today.