So What Hours Do You Work?

A lot of people ask virtual assistants about their working hours. This is a question that I did not like answering for a long time. You see, as a work from home mom, my schedule is flexible, but during the hours they are awake and need me, my kids take up time.

After some trial and error, I found the perfect system for me. I’ve always been someone who can get up and go in the mornings. Don’t get me wrong I’d sleep until 10 most days if I could, but once I’m awake I get *stuff* done! Because of this, my mornings start early and I’m working shortly after my shower with a cup of coffee in hand. My kiddos get up after 7 most mornings so I get a little less than an hour in, but I cannot express enough how much work gets done during that time! When the house is quiet and all I have to do is focus on the computer, I am able to knock out tasks quickly.

After my kiddos are up, dressed, and fed, a few days a week we go for a run (one kid on a bike and the other in a stroller) and play at the park. The other days they play and I can work a little more if needed, but typically I wait until quiet time/nap time in the afternoon. Morning nap time for the youngest is a great time for me to work as well because the oldest loves to have his independent time playing in the backyard or doing his learning games, but a lot waits until that afternoon time. I really have found that this type of time blocking is extremely helpful for me.

Once they are up again we pretty much go until bedtime with playing and cooking dinner. On the rare occasion that I have a project that needs more attention, I’ll work once the boys are in bed. All in all this works great for projects.

For clients with hourly packages I get up a bit earlier and make time throughout the day when it works best for us. I am also available most days throughout the day for quick tasks. I cannot however, drop everything any time a client needs something last minute. One thing I try to remind potential clients is that I am an independent contractor and as such, I set my schedule and rates. You wouldn’t call an electrician and ask them to be at your house from 9-5 on any given day. You call and request their help. They give you an agreed upon time frame that fits you into their schedule.

Overall, hours for a true freelance virtual assistant will vary, but most have some kind of schedule that they try to stick to. Remember as a freelancer, most of us have chosen this line of work for the flexibility and being our own bosses. When you hire a virtual assistant, you are in a contract with them and they are not employees.

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