Top Most Commonly Outsourced Jobs and Services in 2024

Your business is gaining momentum, but scaling your team internally might not be the best solution. You’ve read up about outsourcing and know that it can be a powerful tool, but where do you start?

This guide explores the different services, operations, jobs, and skills you can outsource to free yourself up for growth.

Top Outsourced Jobs and Services in 2024

Information Technology (IT) Services

The ever-evolving nature of technology, particularly with the rise of AI and automation, has fueled the demand for skilled IT professionals. This translates to over 70% of global outsourcing contracts focusing on IT services.

Here’s a deeper dive into some of the most in-demand outsourced IT jobs:

Software Development and Programming

These are programmers of various languages and software and mobile app developers. These specialists design, build, and test software applications. Companies seeking expertise in specific programming languages or cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing or blockchain often outsource software development. This allows them to tap into a wider talent pool beyond their local market. Here are some in-demand skills:

Programming languages: Proficiency in languages like Java, Python, C++, JavaScript, and frameworks like .NET or Ruby on Rails.
Software development methodologies: Understanding of Agile, Waterfall, or other development methodologies to fit project needs.
Cloud computing: Expertise in platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP).
Blockchain technology: Knowledge of blockchain fundamentals and its application in software development.

Web Design and Development

Web designers as well as front-, back-end, and full-stack developers are the creative minds behind the websites we interact with daily. They handle everything from crafting the visual layout to building the underlying functionalities. Businesses outsource web development to leverage cost-effective options and access specialized skills in specific areas:

Front-end development: Proficiency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript frameworks like React or Angular.
Back-end development: Expertise in server-side scripting languages like PHP, Python, or Node.js.
Content management systems (CMS): Knowledge of popular CMS platforms like WordPress, Drupal, or Wix.
E-commerce development: Understanding of e-commerce functionalities and shopping cart integrations.
User experience (UX) design: Skills in crafting user-friendly interfaces and optimizing website navigation for a seamless user experience.

Cybersecurity

With the ever-increasing threat of cyberattacks, businesses are turning to cybersecurity specialists to protect their data and systems. Outsourcing cybersecurity allows companies to access a wider pool of security experts, often at a lower cost, and benefit from diverse perspectives on emerging security threats. Here are some skills that enterprises often outsource:

Network security: Understanding of firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and secure network protocols.
Vulnerability assessment and penetration testing: Skills in identifying weaknesses in a company’s systems and simulating cyberattacks to expose vulnerabilities.
Security awareness training: Ability to educate employees on cybersecurity best practices and phishing attempts.
Incident response: Expertise in handling security breaches and minimizing damage.

Human Resources (HR)

The difference between a successful company and a thriving one often lies in its people. A strong HR department plays a critical role in attracting, retaining, and developing a talented workforce.

HR goes beyond just processing payroll and managing benefits. HR employees do their best to foster a positive work environment where employees feel valued, motivated, and empowered to do their best work. This translates directly to a company’s success.

Here are some of the most in-demand outsourced HR jobs:

Recruitment

Recruitment specialists and talent acquisition managers are tasked with finding and hiring the best candidates for job openings within a company. They create job postings, screen applicants, conduct interviews, and coordinate hiring processes. Companies seeking to attract top talent without overburdening their in-house teams often outsource recruitment. Here are some in-demand skills:

Sourcing techniques: Proficiency in using social media, job boards, and other platforms to find potential candidates.
Interviewing: Strong skills in conducting thorough and effective interviews.
Applicant tracking systems (ATS): Experience with software tools used to track and manage candidates throughout the hiring process.
Labor law knowledge: Understanding of local and international labor laws and regulations.
Communication: Most roles under HR need excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with potential candidates, hiring managers, employees, and so on.

Payroll Processing

Payroll specialists and managers ensure that employees are paid accurately and on time. They handle wage calculations, paycheck processing, and payroll records maintenance. Outsourcing payroll processing can help companies manage their payroll efficiently and ensure compliance with tax laws and regulations. These are the skills companies often look for:

Payroll software: Proficiency in using payroll systems and software.
Tax law knowledge: Understanding of local tax regulations and compliance requirements based on the area their client is situated in.
Fast mathematical skills: Strong ability to calculate wages, deductions, and other payroll-related figures quickly.
Attention to detail: Meticulousness in ensuring accuracy in payroll processing.
Confidentiality: Ability to handle sensitive and confidential employee information securely.

Employee Benefits Administration

Benefits administrators and employee relations specialists manage employee benefits programs, including health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks. They ensure that employees understand and can access their benefits. Outsourcing benefits administration helps companies provide comprehensive benefits packages efficiently. Outsourced employee benefits administrators often have the following skills:

Knowledge of benefits programs: Knowledge of various employee benefits programs and their administration.
Communication: As mentioned, these employees should have excellent communication skills to explain benefits to employees clearly.
Organizational skills: Strong ability to manage and organize benefits information.
Confidentiality: Like those handling payroll, employees should be adept at handling sensitive employee information with discretion.

Customer Support

Nearly 40% of businesses globally outsource customer service, the very voice of your brand. Great customer support maintains customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Companies outsource customer support functions like help desks and customer service operations to ensure their customers receive timely and effective assistance. This can significantly improve customer experience and allow businesses to focus on their core activities.

When outsourcing customer support, companies often seek representatives with a blend of hard skills and soft skills to effectively handle customer inquiries and concerns.

Help Desks

Help desk support specialists assist customers with technical issues, providing troubleshooting guidance and solutions for software, hardware, and network problems. They ensure that customers can use products and services effectively. Outsourced employees often have the following skills:

Technical knowledge: Quick to learn and understand their employer’s software, hardware, and network systems.
Troubleshooting: Proficiency in diagnosing and resolving technical issues.
Remote support tools: Experience with tools used to provide remote support to customers.
Communication: Clear and concise communication skills to explain technical concepts to non-technical users.
Patience: Remaining patient and calm when assisting customers with technical problems.
Analytical thinking: Ability to analyze issues and think critically to find solutions.
Customer focus: A strong commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction.

Customer Service Operations

Customer service representatives handle a wide range of customer interactions, including email, chat, and social media support. They assist with order processing, account management, and general inquiries, ensuring a seamless customer experience. Aside from being great at communicating, here are some other in-demand skills:

Multichannel support: Proficiency in handling customer interactions across various channels (email, chat, social media).
Order processing systems: Experience with order management and processing systems.
Documentation: Ability to maintain accurate and detailed records of customer interactions.
Empathy: Demonstrating understanding and concern for customer needs and issues.
Adaptability: Flexibility to handle various types of customer interactions and adjust to different situations.
Teamwork: Working collaboratively with other team members to provide comprehensive support.

Accounting and Finance

Every successful business relies on a strong financial backbone. The accounting and finance department plays a critical role in managing a company’s financial health, ensuring accurate record-keeping, and providing valuable insights to drive informed business decisions.

While core accounting functions like bookkeeping and tax preparation are essential, the scope of finance expands to encompass tasks like financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting.

When outsourcing accounting and finance functions, companies seek partners with a strong foundation in the following skills:

Accounting principles and practices: A thorough understanding of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is essential for accurate financial reporting.
Tax preparation and compliance: Expertise in the complexities of tax laws and regulations to ensure timely and accurate tax filing.
Bookkeeping and record-keeping: Meticulous attention to detail and proficiency in bookkeeping software to maintain accurate financial records.
Financial analysis and reporting: The ability to analyze financial data, identify trends, and generate reports that provide valuable insights for business decision-making.
Financial modeling and forecasting: Creating financial models that predict future financial performance and guide strategic planning.

Digital Marketing

The increasing need for a continuous online presence and expertise has made digital marketing one of the most commonly outsourced services in 2024. Companies outsource functions such as SEO, content creation, social media management, and PPC advertising to tap into specialized skills and improve their marketing efficiency.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

SEO specialists optimize websites to improve their rankings in search engines like Google and drive organic traffic. Here are some in-demand skills:

Keyword research: Expertise in identifying and targeting relevant keywords.
On-page optimization: Skills in optimizing website content, meta tags, and URLs for better search engine visibility.
Technical SEO: Knowledge of site architecture, crawling, indexing, and site speed optimization.
Link building: Ability to develop and execute strategies to acquire high-quality backlinks.
Analytics: Proficiency in using tools like Google Analytics to track and analyze website performance.

Content Creation

Content creators produce engaging and relevant content for various platforms, including blogs, social media, and websites. This helps attract and retain a clearly defined audience. Here are what companies usually look for:

Writing and editing: Strong writing skills and attention to detail.
SEO writing: Ability to create content that is optimized for search engines.
Research: Proficiency in conducting thorough research to produce informative and accurate content.
Creativity: Generating fresh and engaging ideas for content.
Visual content creation: Skills in creating visual content such as infographics, videos, and images.

Social Media Management

According to Statista, about 5.07 billion people in the world use social media—businesses access these possible customer base by outsourcing social media managers. They create and implement strategies to promote brands and engage with their audience on social media platforms. Some of their in-demand skills include:

Platform proficiency: Expertise in using major social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok.
Content scheduling and planning: Ability to plan and schedule posts effectively.
Community management: Skills in engaging with followers, responding to comments, and building a community.
Analytics and reporting: Proficiency in using social media analytics tools to measure performance and adjust strategies.
Advertising: Experience in creating and managing paid social media campaigns.

Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising

PPC specialists manage online advertising campaigns to drive traffic and conversions through paid ads. Here’s what outsourced PPC specialists may have:

Ad platforms knowledge: Expertise in using platforms like Google Ads, Bing Ads, and social media advertising tools.
Keyword research and bid management: Skills in identifying profitable keywords and managing bids.
Ad copywriting: Ability to write compelling and effective ad copy.
Analytics: Proficiency in tracking and analyzing campaign performance using tools like Google Analytics.
Conversion rate optimization: Skills in optimizing landing pages and ads to improve conversion rates.

Conclusion

Outsourcing can be a powerful tool for small businesses, but like any business strategy, you’ll need to do strategic planning. Carefully evaluate which tasks can be confidently outsourced to free up your time and resources for core business functions. Conduct thorough research to identify the best outsourcing partners who align with your needs and budget.

Stay informed about industry trends and best practices through resources like BPO News to ensure your partnerships continue to deliver value.