Beware the $10 Assistant

Posted by Marie on April 14, 2010

When you buy a $10 pair of shoes, what do you expect from it? What about from a $100 printer or $1000 car?

I’m often asked about the standard $10-an-hour pay offering by those advertising for assistants on Craigslist. I must assume that these entrepreneurs get responses because otherwise, they would stop asking.

For my part, I usually respond to this inquiry by saying—they probably got what they paid for.

There probably is a reason that the ad answers are willing to settle for this wage. The bottom line is, they accept $10 an hour because (for whatever reason) they are not able to get someone to pay them more than that.

Even if there are extenuating circumstances, I feel that the small business runner would be taking a big risk. Once a good assistant begins to realize that he/she is being underpaid and is able to command a higher price elsewhere, then the entrepreneur will either have to step up and match the demand or be willing to start all over with someone new and of perhaps a lower quality.

When you own a business, I know that business is you. And you deserve an administrative professional who is capable, experienced, and trustworthy. Not someone purchased at a bargain basement rate.

A Video Explanation of Freelance Administrative Support

Posted by Marie on February 23, 2010

This video has been kindly shared by the Virtual Assistant Chamber of Commerce. I hope you’ll find it as helpful as I think it is.

Ready for 2010

Posted by Marie on January 13, 2010

I love calendars and planners in January. There are so many empty days and plenty of space in which to plan and dream.

The news keeps screaming that 2010 is the year of growth and recovery. Regardless of whether this is truth or fiction, opportunities are always out there.

If you find yourself stuck at any time this year, please don’t hesitate to give us a call. When your A to B needs a little help, Detour Services will be ready.

How Are Your Copyediting Skills?

Posted by Marie on October 18, 2009

The picture shows an actual notification that was stuck under my windshield wiper. This brand new business canvassed blocks and blocks of cars with this flyer.

They really wanted to get the word out, but I highly doubt that this is the first impression they wanted to create.

People start their own businesses to do what they love. No one, however, is good at everything.

If you need some help with a quick copyedit run through of a business document, please don’t hesitate to drop us a line. I have six years of editing experience in the publishing industry and continue to perform these duties for my current clients. We’ll stop those glaring errors from reaching the light of day.

First Anniversary for Detour Services

Posted by Marie on September 15, 2009

It’s been an unbelievable first year for my little company. I’m so glad that the need I saw out there has turned into a sustainable and growing business.

Thank you to the clients and helpers who made this first anniversary possible. I look forward to continuing and building our relationships over the next year.

To all our successes!