Jane Haskins is a freelance writer who practiced law for 20 years – a career that involved many situations of being both an employee and an employer. In a Legal Zoom article she describes the following six characteristics of a good employer:

• They are open and honest communicators.
• They are flexible.
• They are dedicated team builders.
• They give feedback.
• They know how to listen.
• They foster a great employee experience.

These qualities are similarly important when one is hiring a contractor. Many of us hire contractors and freelancers for an array of home and business needs. About ten years ago, my own experience involved hiring an organization to create a website. The first company I contacted was of no help, as their proposal was not attractive, they did not communicate well, and their price was exceptionally high.

Fortunately, I found a gentleman who was experienced in this field, and he recommended the name of my website be Rio Chama Publications. This fit very well, since the first book I authored was written as I viewed the Chama River from the window of the house where I wrote! Furthermore, he was an excellent photographer. On one occasion he came to my office to take photos of me, and the one we liked best is shown on the website.

Together we discussed various options regarding other content, as well as a timeline for when the website would be up and running. When problems occurred via conversations over the phone or email, we were able to resolve things quickly. It didn’t take long to have this website launched on the internet, where my books are showcased and linked to sales channels. 

Following the advice of this webmaster, I began to post blogs weekly, which welcomes comments from readers. Indeed we had become a team in building and promoting a website. It has been my good fortune to work with such an experienced and creative person. Our relationship has been of great help, as the website has helped promote the books I have authored, and also furthered my practice as a psychologist and Shamanic practitioner.

Dear reader, your comments about experiences of being an employer would be of much help, as it may well give insights into the “dos and don’ts” of being effective in this important role.