Task Times and Deadlines
How Long Will My Project Take?
I get this question a lot and unfortunately, there’s no real definite answer. The best way to judge how long a task or project will take is for you to perform the task at least a couple times. Keep track of how long it takes you (don’t estimate) and write it down. Another way to get an estimate is to talk to a friend, family member or colleague who does these types of tasks and ask them about how long it takes them to perform such things.
Of course, times will vary from person to person, especially the first time a task is completed but after your virtual assistant has done it a couple times, you should be able to determine if the price you’re paying is worth it. If it is, great, you can continue as is. But if it isn’t cost effective, you have a few options; you can try to find ways to streamline the process, eliminate the task altogether, see if another assistant can do the work quicker or you may want to continue doing it yourself.
Regardless of whether a task will take 5 minutes or 5 hours, something to keep in mind is to try to send it to your assistant well before your deadline. Assigning something 2 weeks or even a month in advance is perfectly fine.
Chances are your assistant will have many clients and a busy schedule so the more notice they have, the easier it is to work it into their schedule. It also allows them to complete things ahead of schedule if they have extra time available.
Assigning work early also avoids the “Rush Job” fee; an additional fee added to the standard price if the job has a short turnaround time. Some assistants charge a flat rate rush jobs and others raise their hourly rate. Either way, the cost adds up fast. So get in the habit of planning ahead and assigning work early to make the most of everyone’s time and money.
