It is important to understand the distinction between outsourcing and offshore recruitment in order to ensure that our business strategies are maximized. Despite being commonly used interchangeably, these two terms have distinct meanings and vary in a number of aspects. It is therefore essential to be familiar with the differences between them in order to make the most of our management plans.
There are pros and cons to both offshore and outsourcing. And there are some similarities between the two approaches. Come on, we need to get down to business.
Definition of “Recruitment Offshoring”
Offshoring is the practice of transferring work to a provider in a different country or establishing a new site for a company’s operations abroad. Offshoring encompasses both offshore outsourcing and offshore infrastructures.
Offshoring presents businesses with a range of potential benefits, such as lower labor costs, simpler taxation and more. It is becoming an increasingly popular recruiting option, as businesses are able to hire highly skilled workers at a reduced cost, largely thanks to the internet and the advancements in information technology. As such, offshoring is increasingly being recognized and acknowledged as a valuable addition to traditional corporate management strategies.
The meaning of “Outsourcing”
Outsourcing is a viable option for customers looking to delegate certain tasks to a third party. This party can be located in the same city or even halfway across the world. Supporters of outsourcing believe that it can help businesses save money by reducing their reliance on in-house personnel. The end goal of this service is to ease the burden on its clients by freeing up their time, space, and other resources.
In order to optimize production efficiency and reduce costs, businesses and individuals have historically outsourced the manufacturing of certain components of their products.
The Distinction Between Offshoring and Outsourcing
It is evident that the two concepts are comparable. Nevertheless, it is vital to evaluate which of these approaches is most appropriate for your organization if you are looking to recruit on an international level.
Outsourcing non-core tasks to a vendor, supplier or corporation can help businesses to focus on what they do best. Alternatively, offshoring recruiting involves using a service provider or individual based in a foreign country. In either case, companies can benefit from lower labor costs and increased access to skilled employees and workforces by creating a branch or unit of their operations in an offshore country.
A few real-world examples of offshore and outsourcing:
| Industry | Offshoring | Outsourcing |
| Security | In order to ensure the safety of Americans in a certain Middle Eastern nation, the US government has made the decision to recruit security personnel. It has been decided that the best course of action is to employ local security guards, as they are more aware of the potential threats in the area and are better equipped to provide protection for diplomatic compounds. | The United States Government has a contract with private security firms, who have access to a greater workforce, to carry out street patrols in particular areas of New York City. |
| Software | Oracle has determined the necessity to establish a software engineering team in Bangalore, India, in order to improve its software solutions. Due to budget constraints, the company is unable to employ Silicon Valley experts on a full-time basis. As a result, they have already set up a base of operations in Bangalore, thus enabling them to begin recruiting software developers in the area. | At Oracle’s Redwood City headquarters, it has been decided to update all of the company’s computers. Oracle purchases desktops and laptops from a San Diego-based store, though the exact quantity is not disclosed due to the high quality of the devices. |
| Electronic | Recently, Apple has been procuring its microchips from a South Korean supplier. Additionally, it has engaged a Chinese company to address the iOS issues that have been causing difficulties for the firm’s mobile operating system. | In order to enhance the aesthetic of its Cupertino, California headquarters, Apple has sourced gardeners from Seattle, due to the lower cost compared to their Californian counterparts. Moreover, Seattle-based firm X is renowned for its gardeners, who are highly skilled in crafting beautiful flowerbeds. |
| Automotive | Ford chooses to open a factory in China because of the country’s relatively cheap labour and ready availability of necessary supplies. | Ford has made the decision to outsource its customer service in Iowa to an external provider. The company’s headquarters in Michigan is not intending to employ a full-time call centre. |
Now that we have a shared definition, let’s examine the benefits associated with these concepts.
The Pros of Hiring Abroad
It Helps Cut Expenses Dramatically
The labor and infrastructural costs in most offshore locations are significantly lower compared to costs in North America. These offshore locations, which can range from economically depressed nations to developing markets in Europe, South America, India, the Philippines, and beyond, have a substantially lower cost of living, resulting in comparatively lower salaries. As such, organizations can benefit from cost savings by engaging with providers in other countries.
Due to the considerable difference between the average salaries of software engineers based in California and those in Bulgaria, Eastern Europe, one major software company made the decision to recruit software engineers from Bulgaria.
Gain Access to Top-Notch International Talent that Isn’t Currently Available in Your Area
It is conceivable that there may not be a sufficient number of suitably qualified people or specialists in the locality to fill vacant positions. Despite the potential lack of qualified local candidates, an international recruitment search is likely to yield numerous suitable individuals who are immediately available for employment. This offers a great advantage to businesses, as they are able to select from a broad selection of highly qualified job applicants.
The United States government provides a further illustration of how the employment of security professionals in the Middle East could be a cost-effective solution to ensuring public safety in the area.
To Be Able to Take Advantage of Hospitable Business Settings
Furthermore, many businesses outsource to overseas locations due to the more favorable corporate legislation and taxation frameworks. These locations may provide more attractive investment opportunities, have more flexible employment regulations, or offer lower taxation rates.
Singapore is an increasingly popular destination for businesses to establish themselves due to its favorable business environment and growing number of enterprises. Similarly, Dubai and other locations offer their own business-friendly regulations.
Outsourcing has several benefits.
The first benefit is that it frees up funds and other assets.
When companies outsource their secondary operations, they are able to redirect resources and cut costs. The savings can then be put towards a more pressing requirement.
In the scenario outlined above, Apple is in a better position to consider the aesthetics of the flowers in its lobby. To improve its hardware, Apple could contract with gardeners based in Seattle.
Provides Links to Services and Goods Provided by Outside Parties
No business can succeed without assistance from other companies. When a buyer firm needs a service provider’s goods on a consistent basis, a B2B transaction could be considered as outsourcing.
Ford has made the executive decision to outsource customer support to specialized firms due to the fact that it cannot afford to keep a customer service department open at its Michigan headquarters. Through this arrangement, an Iowa business is taking calls from Ford customers and providing assistance with their issues in exchange for payment from Ford.
Allows Businesses to Zero in on What They Do Best
Companies often opt to outsource tasks, in order to allocate resources towards more important areas of expertise. When there is an abundance of tasks needing to be completed, it can be difficult to focus on developing skills.
Oracle commissioned an external firm to conduct research into the most suitable PCs and laptops for their employees. This has enabled Oracle’s staff to devote their time to what they do best: developing and maintaining high-quality software.
Don’t Mess Up the Jargon!
It is important to distinguish between outsourcing and offshore services. Both have advantages and it is recommended that organizations seek advice from knowledgeable professionals to determine which is most suitable for their needs and situation.
If you are having difficulty selecting an appropriate strategy for your recruitment needs, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our extensive knowledge and experience in the remote recruitment field has enabled us to understand the specific requirements of businesses when attempting to attract IT professionals. For over ten years, we have been helping companies find suitable remote engineers. We are highly knowledgeable in this sector.
