What to look for.
WHAT MATTERS MOST
Can they do the work Can they communicate in writing Can they work without supervision Are they reliable
THAT THIRD ONE
The most common reason remote arrangements fail.
Some people work well only with structure around them.
HOW TO ASSESS IT
Ask how they organise their own work Ask about a time they worked independently Give a paid trial task with a deadline
THE TRIAL TASK
The most reliable assessment available.
Real work, paid, with a deadline.
WHAT IT SHOWS
Quality Whether they meet deadlines How they communicate about the work Whether they ask sensible questions
WHAT TO PAY FOR IT
A fair rate for the work done.
WHAT NOT TO DO
Ask for substantial unpaid work Use trial tasks to get work done cheaply
That is exploitative and it gets known.
WHAT TO CHECK
References, actually contacted.
