How to Build Motivation in Freelancers

Simply dropping off a task description and expecting results isn't enough. To truly engage the specialist and inspire them, present the project in a unique way. Describe the task in an interesting way, emphasize the importance of the freelancer's work and its outcome, and provide as much background information as possible. Importantly, if you want your freelancer to approach the task creatively, you don't need to restrict them with rigid frameworks and requirements.

It is impossible to expect freelancers to go above and beyond with a humble, disproportionate pay. Motivation further diminishes when the task is challenging and requires a lot of effort and time. Of course, not every project you make should cost a fortune. But the money you offer should correlate with the resources the freelancer invests.

Harsh criticism kills any motivation at its root. It's crucial to express feedback and comments in a way that doesn't offend or damage the specialist's self-esteem.
Present corrections tactfully and with evidence. The freelancer should understand your logic and be able to fix the work as needed. Avoid phrasing like "this isn't right, fix it" or "you need to redo it". Try to soften the sharp edges of your feedback. For example, say "I would change this because..." followed by your reasoning.

If you try to force a freelancer to deliver results through pressure and ultimatums, it won't end well. This will only lead to deteriorated relationships and demotivated workers. If it comes to an argument, there's a high chance you'll have to find another freelancer altogether. Even reconciliation might not fix the situation, as the freelancer will lose the desire to try their best, and the most they will do is bare minimum.

If you're satisfied with the interim results and overall work of the specialist, be sure to tell them. But avoid excessive praise, so they don't get complacent and continue on the same path. If there is no praise and recognition at all, the freelancer will have less motivation. As practice shows, positive feedback at work has a favorable impact on employee productivity.

Some employers believe motivating a freelancer through comparison with others is effective. Statements like "this freelancer is cheaper" or "we'll offer the job to someone else if you don't do well enough" will only cause irritation. Specialists of any level tend to react negatively to such comparisons.