To put it bluntly: I am completely overloaded. Between regular workload, trying to create new creative ventures, the holidays, travel, family commitments, a recent bout of severe food poisoning that forced me to push back a couple of client deadlines, tons of activity at our condo reconstruction (necessitating loads of paperwork and on-site visits by me)… I am absolutely overwhelmed. So I’m considering outsourcing some things, but I have no idea where to start. I would love to hand off my Quickbooks work, some of the email answering, mail opening, bill paying, etc. And perhaps some of the day-to-day chores like dry cleaning, groceries (wait, Peapod!), car wash and gas, etc. Anything to take a little of the load off. Fill me in: What do you outsource? I want to know details: how you decided what to outsource, who you use, how you work with your delegates, what you pay (you can email me directly if you like) etc. Thanks!
Comments:
3 Comments posted on "Theme of the week: What do you outsource?"
Sandy Weisz on December 13th, 2007 at 1:10 am #
I don’t outsource anything yet, though I want to. It’s just scary to take that first step. My mom has recommended The Office Grapevine, though I can’t vouch for it myself. It does seem to do a lot of the things you’re asking about.
rickey gold on December 13th, 2007 at 3:32 pm #
I felt the same way as Sandy until I actually let go of my mico-managing tendencies. What a great move! I’ve hired people to develop media lists (something I felt only I could do for a long time). Now, rather than outsource, I have my intern help out with anything I need to turn over in addition to work-related stuff. Checking credit card statements against receipts, learning how to use iMovie (so she can teach me!), anything that would normally take me time that I’d rather spend on other, more profitable tasks. It’s made my work and personal life much better. Of course, I have a fabulous intern which helps! Sandy, your mom’s probably right about The Office Grapevine. I know Cathy Mallers. She’s a dynamo. Besides, aren’t moms always right! Rickey
Chris Benevich on December 15th, 2007 at 4:25 pm #
I outsource administrative work, such as data entry and HTML updates. On a separate but related note, when the opportunity is a good match and transparent to clients, I am open to subcontracting either: 1.) projects that supplement the work I do for my clients, i.e., junior-level copywriting or proofreading, in order to offer a more comprehensive, white-glove service package or 2.) projects that involve teaming with a talented, fun, complementary expert, such as a graphic designer, programmer, or art director. Post a comment
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