If you’re not already doing so, the new year is a great time to consider outsourcing some areas of your business. Sure, it can be hard to relinquish complete control over any area of your firm, but can you afford to not? As we approach 2017, here are five areas to consider outsourcing and why.

Marketing – We all know that marketing is vital to the life of your practice, but do you have the time to effectively market your business and run daily operations? Save yourself time and heartache by contracting a marketing professional to create and execute the right marketing plan for your firm.

Website Maintenance – Your website is your firm’s virtual front door. For many perspective clients, it is their first introduction and impression of your business. So, it is imperative that their first encounter projects your firm in a positive light. However, this does not typically require a full-time staff member to maintain. Instead, use the services of a freelance webmaster to make updates as needed.

Social Media Posting – If you are not already on social media you are missing a huge opportunity to connect with others, including both current and perspective clients. Take advantage of all that social networking offers by hiring a freelancer to help maintain your firm’s social presence. These days, many virtual assistants can manage professional social media channels along with other duties—without breaking your bank.

Administrative Assistance – Depending on your specific needs, administrative assistance could mean many different things. In most cases a talented VA (virtual assistant) can help you by managing tasks such as answering calls, proofing documents, coordinating with clients and managing your calendar. Many VA’s are also technologically savvy. Therefore, they can also assist with blogging, simple website updates and social media posting.

Information Technology (IT) – At some point during the life of your practice, you will need IT assistance. However, chances are, your small firm doesn’t need it enough to justify a full-time employee. While outsourcing can limit how timely your IT needs are met, the cost savings to outsource–versus the cost of hiring an in-house employee–will far outweigh any perceived delays.

It may take a little extra time, research and trust to outsource areas of your business. However, by doing so, you will have more time to focus on growing your firm in the coming year.

What area of your business could you use help with the most? What has been your experience with working with contract professionals. Share in the comments below.