time etc

BACKGROUND

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I work for Big Data Institute. We work with companies all over the world on data projects, mentoring them through the process, and helping them be successful.

OPPORTUNITY / CHALLENGE

What challenges were you trying to address with time etc?

time etc provides virtual assistants. We hired them to take care of tasks that we didn’t have time to do in-house.

SOLUTION

What was the scope of their involvement?

They provide temporary staff augmentation. They find virtual assistants that match the needs of our projects. They vet the assistants prior to sending them over to us. For example, we have an assistant doing accounting, and another one doing research and email outreach. 

What is the team composition?

I have two virtual assistants right now who I work with directly. When I need to hire a new assistant, or if I’m having problems, I have an account coordinator who I can contact. 

How did you come to work with time etc?

There was another company that I was using for virtual assistants. However, they couldn’t do work that required passwords or credit card information. Time etc, on the other hand, did have that as part of their terms and conditions. They were a better fit for me because I wanted my virtual assistants to be able to do things like book travel. 

How much have you invested in them?

I’ve spent about $40,000 with them. 

What is the status of this engagement?

I think we started working together in 2018, and our relationship is ongoing. 

RESULTS & FEEDBACK

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

A key metric for me is the rate of turnover for assistants. I’ve had a total of four assistants. Two of whom didn’t work out well, but the other two I’m still working with. The low turnover rate is helpful because it limits the amount of time I have to spend training the assistants. 

The assistants are proactive and dedicated. I don’t feel like I need to follow up with them to make sure they’ve completed the tasks I’ve assigned them. 

How did time etc perform from a project management standpoint?

They have a good ability to meet deadlines. I don’t know if they use any project management tools, but they keep track of the tasks on time etc’s platform. I prefer to leave it to the individual to use their own organizational methods. 

What did you find most impressive about them?

Their ability to handle sensitive information such as passwords and credit cards sets them apart from other companies. In addition, I like that they’re in the same time zone as me. 

Are there any areas they could improve?

There’s no way to 100% vet someone, but it would be nice for them to figure out a way to make up for the lost time and money that comes from working with an assistant that isn’t up to the client’s standards. 

Do you have any advice for potential customers? 

Make sure that you spend a good amount of time talking to the assistant and ensuring that they’re a good fit.