Need a little help with a side-job idea I came up with, please..

[C.Ann]

It all started when my DD mentioned that there might be an opening for a temporary file clerk where she works.. Seems that when "audit time" rolls around they find they're way behind and need to hire someone to catch up for them..

That got me to thinking how many times I have heard people say that the filing was backed up in their businesses but they didn't want to hire someone on a permanent 9 to 5 basis just to catch up and then have to find "busy" work to keep them on..

So...... I was thinking of contracting myself out by the day - or even by the hour.. I would require a minimum 48-hour notice and then I would just go in and do the job and be gone..

How could I advertise this to people though? And how much should I charge? When I worked in the doctor's office I totally revamped her filing system - also went through and removed all the inactive files, etc. She was amazed at my efficiency and my speed so I know I could do this for other businesses without any problem at all..

Is it a good idea - or am I crazy? I think a lot of businesses are reluctant to go through a temp agency just to have someone come in to "catch up" on filing - you know?

Would appreciate any thoughts on this matter..

Thanks!

 

[Serena]

I don't have any advice, but I think it's a great idea.

 

[dvcfamily41801]

Definatley a good idea!! We sure could use your help, are you anywhere near Washington Crossing, PA

 

[4greatboys]

That sounds like a great idea. Why dont you have some flyers made out and take them around to business' with a card. Also once you do it for a company or two ask them if they mind given a recommendation--either by letter you could keep with you or by phone if someone wanted to call.

 

[annemariec]

I think it's a great idea too!

Did you want to do strictly filing or filing and organizing? Both would be in big demand I would imagine.

I guess if it were me, I'd design a straightforward business card that laid out the service I propose, with testimonials on the back. (Kinko's do a small order as a test. --- If you get bites, repeat!) Then as a start, I'd give them to business & restaurant (managers) I frequent (& local offices). Repeat business & word of mouth would then take over (hopefully).

Hmmmm, what to charge..... I'd shoot somewhere at least close to what you were making per hour when you performed the service for others. Even if it is a little on the high side, employers should factor in short notice, no benefits, quality work, and quick turn around time.

Have you ever been to the website: www.bizymoms.com ? It has a wealth of information from people that have been successful at starting their own ventures.

Good luck!
Annemarie

 

[Rajah]

No advice for you, but I think it sounds like a great idea!

 

[FreshTressa]

As a contract worker who is paying for all of the employment costs (disability, ssi, etc) herself, you should charge at least 50% more than the going hourly rate for a receptionist/clerk in your area. (it it is $10, you should charge 15-20)

You need to do reasearch on how to be your own employer.

It sounds like an AWESOME idea though!!! I wish you luck with it.

 

[disneefamily]

Disnee Dad Says...............................Great idea!

$20.oo an hour and an 8 hour minimum.

Option one. Hire a temp for a week, to do an eight hour job that you could do in eight hours.

Option two. Man, I need someone to fix these files, they keep stacking up, but I don't want another person on the payroll, workers comp, ss, medicare, etc. Bring Carol in every Friday.
For $160. she will save him/her.

$20.00 is the minimum per hour, as you will have to pay both sides of the SS tax, that businesses usually cover one half. So $20.00=about $16.95, before any income tax. Toss that in and $20 is more like $12.

As a "consultant", I would charge $30 an hour to review the need they have, wether you do the work or not, then offer $20 if they want you. And they will.