<![CDATA[The Domestic Assistants - The DA's BLOG]]>Mon, 23 Apr 2012 22:52:20 -0800Weebly<![CDATA[We're Super Heroes!]]>Wed, 29 Feb 2012 14:00:25 -0800http://www.thedomesticassistants.com/1/post/2012/02/were-super-heroes.htmlAt least that's what we're aiming for in the new year. Our new image pins us as two characters, "Can-Do Dan" and "Mrs. Fix-it". We're overhauling our entire image. It feels great! Do you ever get tired of your image in print or on the web? 

After a consultation this week led a client into a bit of a tizzy, I'm here today to give you some tips on what to know before you call. 

1. Specify one area. We'll work better when we're not scattered. The area at hand cannot escape, we'll work it out, and get it done. More can be addressed later, but there's no sense in rushing. If you're forgetful, write it down. 

2. Know what you want. General ideas, outcomes, or improvements also accepted. If you don't tell us, we can't help you. If you write it down, we've got a starting point. This also correlates to our "list" idea. Clients with lists often have no troubles at first. If you write it down, it also helps you too. 

3. Have the supplies needed for the job at the time of your appointment. When we say that we're "help", that's what we mean. We tackle so many projects per day, that we've never really carried supplies for individual jobs. If you know what we're helping you with, you might as well know what we're using for the task at hand. 

4. We do it all. Anything in your home, office, business, or storage. Even if we don't do it, we can certainly find someone who does. Don't give up hope, we're experienced in task management. 

5. As business grows, we have less time to play with. If you're thinking of hiring us, please call as soon as possible. (805) 585-9485. 

]]><![CDATA[Why would you call us? ]]>Tue, 14 Feb 2012 17:55:27 -0800http://www.thedomesticassistants.com/1/post/2012/02/why-would-you-call-us.htmlHere's a top 5 list of why you'd even have the insight to call on us for your needs. 

1. We're centered in the name of the game. Your requests? We've seen them before. Unfortunately, whether we (as a human race) like to believe it or not, we're all creatures of habit, old habits die hard, and nothing is ever right until we do it ourselves. With that being understood, we've taken a step back and given the client full disclosure about what we "do". Centered, disciplined, and poignant delivery of mission control. 

2. Referral based means tried and true. The only reason someone would have the intention to call us is because a relative or friend told them how (amazing, wonderful, dynamic, responsible, etc.) we are. That being said, no calls come in (or at least get through our "receptionist") without claiming one hour complimentary, and telling us who referred them. This helps 110% in gaining and keeping clients. 

3. No strings attached. Other companies I've seen have too many hoops to jump through, where as we're more of an emergency service, call sporadically to fix all your woes type. There's no minimum, no waiting period (for a little while longer) and definitely no contract. Call today, get seen today. A referral to a friend or family member is always nice, but never pushed on. Your business is well worth the effort. 

4. Male/Female Perspective. This is a big one. Not many (albeit very few) companies have a husband and wife doing the work, we do. We take pride in our diversity, and everyone loves it. Not one complaint yet. The male/female helps in many situations. Whether it be a male or female requesting the work, or a male or female at the time of service, we both help, we're both present and we're both noticed at the end. 

5. Last but not least...Honesty. If we're unable to do the task at hand, we won't jimmy-rig the job to "make it work". We'd much rather give someone else a chance. Not only that, but our referral to another company would come from a binder filled with business cards of local, reliable, and personally engaged business owners who we'd trust with our clients time and time again. 

With The Domestic Assistants you're getting the whole sh'bang. Better yet, you're getting LOVE. Love for the job, for each individual client, for life itself. (We're so "full of it"...) Please take this blog post and spread it around, you've been reading truth, and we love you! 


    HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!! ]]><![CDATA[Yard Sales, Garage Sales, and my two cents...]]>Tue, 03 Jan 2012 08:09:57 -0800http://www.thedomesticassistants.com/1/post/2012/01/yard-sales-garage-sales-and-my-two-cents.htmlSo you think you're ready to host a sale...Please allow me the opportunity to give you a few pointers that you might have missed. These are not directly from a book, or transcribed somewhere else, these are my thoughts on how to work a successful sale. 

1. Start with the basics. When approaching the idea of a sale, make a list of the things you know are up for grabs. Give yourself a general idea of the complexity that awaits you. Are the items BIG or small? Are they portable? Do you really have to sell it? These are all questions that come up within the first few minutes  Once that's settled, and you have all the items in front of you....

2. Price to sell. This is not Sotheby's, you are not in competition. If you chose to let the item go, chances are, you want it gone. Some clients have second thoughts all the way up until the point of sale, and then it's just awkward. Give yourself room to wiggle, they will haggle, and you will feel great when you give the buyer an awesome deal. *

3. Position is everything. When laying out your sale, whether you use tables, blankets, or the grass beneath your feet, you MUST place the items in groups. This makes it so much easier for the buyer to peruse and shop with ease. If the buyer feels comfortable, you will as well. Give the walkways plenty of room, spread out, and feel good about what your doing. 

4. Start EARLY. A good sale gets going bright and early on a crisp, weekend morning. The neighborhood walkers catch a glimpse, the commuters drive by a sign, everything is set for a great day. Also, starting early, you give yourself the opportunity to finish at a reasonable time. 

5. When your done. So you've successfully made a great day, a good amount of traffic came through, and your all set to close up shop. Now what? 2 things...1. Do yourself a favor, and call a donation center (judging that you have enough to give them...) They will come and pick up whatever is left, and you don't have to worry about it. 2. Get all your signs down. (I'd rather not have random visitors in the evening asking when the sale is happening...) 

There you have it....Those are my 5 tips. We've seen a jump in activity with sales, and we're more than happy to oblige. 



* - Food for thought: A good way that we've found to price things without thinking too hard is round, colored stickers. Place a guide on the nearest walls or posts around the sale with a color matching a certain price. Go from item to item, placing matching stickers to their price. 
]]><![CDATA[Making Progess...Now what? ]]>Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:33:37 -0800http://www.thedomesticassistants.com/1/post/2011/12/making-progessnow-what.htmlSo I've noticed a trend lately in some clients. Projects will get started, but not finished. I'm here to set the record straight on how to finish (or at least maintain) the progress you've made. 

1. Paperwork, Filing, Sorting - 

Keep a tab, literally. If you've got a pile, make a tab mark. Something noticeable so when you come back to it, you're not lost. If you're clearing a surface, move the pile to a file folder, or legal box, and let that tab shine through. At least get yourself to some sort of reasonable stopping point. Finish an idea, and let it rest. 

2. Cleaning? Use note cards. 

A client that we've been with for sometime showed me a neat trick, write all your chores on note cards. Some might use a piece of paper (I taught my dad this trick)...You can use them like a deck of playing cards, shuffle them, draw one (or as many as you can handle at once), and do the specified chore. When the chore is done, put it in the back of the deck. I've also thought of writing the date the chore was done, and keeping track that way.

3. Organizing space (garages, closets, etc.)

When organizing, unless you're really motivated and willing to see it through, it's easy to get lost. If it's an open space, divide it into sections. Take one section at a time, and define it. Make a map. One section per visit, done in no time. 

Those are 3 of our biggest tips, we've used them on a daily basis at work, and they are true to their meaning. They will help you, if done right. Of course you might have differences here and there, but this is meant to give you an idea, a head start if you will.  ]]><![CDATA[To hire or NOT to hire? THAT, is the question. ]]>Sun, 06 Nov 2011 10:08:57 -0800http://www.thedomesticassistants.com/1/post/2011/11/to-hire-or-not-to-hire-that-is-the-question.htmlIt's been bugging me and Jennifer for quite some time now. The urge to hire someone is like going to the doctor's office for a check up. You know it needs to happen, but there's so much paperwork involved. 

Seriously though, it's a question that's been floating around the "office" for a while. Being in business for 3+ years, and also being "successful" enough to continue on has been a blessing. We've got the greatest clients, and the one reason I shy away from hiring is our connection to them. It's not "The Domestic Assistants" if it's not us. We'd have to double or triple the work load to afford the stipulations that come with hiring (i.e. insurance, supplies, etc.) But maybe there's a way around all that. What if we put it out there as "independent contractors"? What if the job requirement was a lesson from us in how to be incredibly awesome at everything you'd advertise for, a crash course in the drive it takes to get you from point A to clientele, and the wisdom to be yourself, in business, for liberty and justice for all things "domestic". 

I don't know, I'm still stuck on why. The main reason I'd take this on would be the demand, I get people telling me at least 3 times a week that my business idea is amazing, and although I'm open to all suggestions, it really comes down to the legalities, responsibilities, and overall work we'd be putting in. So I ask you, my audience, what's the best course of action? Is it better to seek out Independent Contractors OR hire people into the "company"? 

Your input is appreciated. Have a great Sunday.  ]]><![CDATA[Personal Assistants: Now what? ]]>Thu, 27 Oct 2011 19:47:57 -0800http://www.thedomesticassistants.com/1/post/2011/10/personal-assistants-now-what.htmlWe know that you've come a long way. Devoting yourself to helping someone else succeed feels like a long, dark road. Please be advised: It has it's ups and downs. No matter what, you're on the right track. 

1. Start small/Baby steps. Nobody is perfect at their job or trade overnight, we do something that makes us happy, and although we're happy, there are still lessons to be learned. With "personal assistant" tasks, it's only troublesome to get over the initial fear. Your essentially an extended hand of your "employer". They've sent you on a mission to accomplish something for them. Don't be overzealous. First things first, get the job done right. Taking things slow will enhance the learning experience. 

2. Get the word out, silently. Once again don't over do it. Once you've established yourself with your primary "account", give them permission to sell you to their friends. Chances are, they'll be glad to, but won't give the word to the wrong person. This is perfect. You don't want to be overworked, just comfortable in your surroundings. A friend of a friend will get the best impression overnight with hints from your client.  You're on the right track. 

3. Develop your skills. If you're a "do-it-all" provider, like my company, you need to be alert on all levels. If something comes up, you've got to be ready to tackle it now. Don't stress, chances are the client will work with you, explaining all the details and side streets to keep it simple. The faster and more efficient you are, the better they'll feel. In my case, I've developed my company around multiple levels because my wife works with me and brings her feminine energy to the table. (Don't be jealous!) 

4. Don't stop! So there are bound to be times when all your "charges" are satisfied, no calls are coming in, you've got a break...Don't lose that stamina you had in the beginning. Go back to your drawing board, think of something new. A new service, a new feature, something to keep your mental juices flowing. Before you know it, your friends will be asking you how you do it, if you've got any work for them, and why they're stuck behind a desk all day! Congratulations, you've made it. 

I'm a true believer in being self-employed. The more of us that blossom out on our own, the happier the Earth will be. Give it a chance, we're all in this together. If it's not for you, stay on your path, enjoy the ride. Remember to share your thoughts in the comments, find us on Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, and everywhere else. Thanks for reading.  ]]><![CDATA[Tools of the trade: Cleaning a bathroom. ]]>Tue, 25 Oct 2011 15:50:52 -0800http://www.thedomesticassistants.com/1/post/2011/10/tools-of-the-trade-cleaning-a-bathroom.htmlSo we just got done with a day in a clients home, cleaning around certain (specified) areas. Today, I will give you my best tools (from personal experience) to use when cleaning the bathroom. 

1. An old toothbrush; You know you have them, and for the grout in the tile showers, or the spot right under the faucet with all the grime and toothpaste, it's the obvious answer. Lately, I've seen cleaning solutions coming out with gel solutions, this is a perfect tool for a gel cleaner. 

2. Mr. Clean's Magic Eraser; The almighty everything helper. I've not seen a stain or smudge that this amazing tool couldn't blast through. It's readily available, easy to use, and always inside my "cleaning kit". 

3. Old, used towels; Paper towels are expensive, too expensive for us working folk to keep purchasing. What's the solution? Your old, used bathroom towels. They grab the gunk with little effort, and wipe things clean with one swipe. Best of all, they're machine washable, no need to waste "extra" money that could be used elsewhere. 


Those are just a few, they were really important at today's job. I know there are more, and would love to hear your favorite tricks or tools of the trade. Also, if you enjoyed this post, please check out my other posts, especially "5 things". Have a great day!  ]]><![CDATA[5 things: Professional Organizer edition. ]]>Mon, 17 Oct 2011 22:27:12 -0800http://www.thedomesticassistants.com/1/post/2011/10/5-things-professional-organizer-edition.htmlThis is my new idea, maybe it will stick. I'm going to list 5 things that I think every professional organizer should have. Note: These 5 things are "my choices", I realize every organizer is different and in no way am I trying to insinuate the "norm". Just my opinion. 


1. A notepad, lined for sure, no matter the color. Somewhere to write everything. If you've ever had that client that goes 1 million miles an hour, and gives you no time to think, this will be your best friend. Make sure with this first item, you get yourself a slew of pens or pencils. I've lost and gained at least 100 in my 3 years on the job. 

2. A rag, clean (in my preference I use bright white.) Just imagine all the dust you'll find when moving and rearranging those precious trinkets from shelf to shelf. You're going to thank me when your client remarks and thanks you for the job well done. Remember to be thorough. You don't want to have to backtrack or be embarrassed by the client finding somewhere you missed. 

3. A box, never leave home without it. The common legal size box, (obtainable at your local office supply store) will be your "right hand man". This box can hold anything, it can be a transfer station, a permanent home, a catch all for a cluttered area, it's like a Transformer action figure. Whatever you choose, it's guaranteed to be used, and overall gratefully appreciated (in it's ready state) by those clients we all know and love. 

4. A plastic grocery bag, not something you'd hear everyday, but I know I need them quite often. Here's a scenario...Say your tackling a clients office, or better yet kitchen cupboards. This client has made his/her clutter so evident, that there's trash (crumpled up paper, or dried food, etc.) inside the area you're cleaning/organizing. What do you do? You get the plastic bag out of your back pocket, and fill that baby to the BRIM! If you've come to need another bag, remember that for next time and stock your pockets full of them. Another reason for your clients to be thrilled with their experience. 

5. Last but definitely not least.....A permanent marker! This is in a different class than a normal pen or pencil (see #1). A Sharpie is a necessity for writing on plastic tubs, or manila folders, or boxes....anything and everything this item will mark it, and make it noticeable for future eyes to see. 

So there you have it! A list of my opinions on what every "Professional Organizer" should bring to the job and have on the job, at all times. Of course there are more things to ponder over i.e. a step stool (for those hard to reach shelves or cupboards.) A back brace (for bending over the right way.) You name it, we've seen it, used it, and probably wished we had it on the job. This list might save you from missing something you've always thought would be a helpful addition to your tools of your trade. 

Please comment below if you have any questions or comments on my list. 

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Please share this with your friends and family. Thank you.  ]]><![CDATA[Moving Out? 10 tips for a job well done. ]]>Tue, 11 Oct 2011 18:58:23 -0800http://www.thedomesticassistants.com/1/post/2011/10/moving-out-10-tips-for-a-job-well-done.html
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We ALL know, moving is super stressful. After doing quite a few, we've derived a list of our top 10 things to do, (or have ready) when the time comes. 
                                    
                               Being prepared is super helpful. 

1. Before you begin to freak out, take a deep breath, and make a list. If you're doing this right, you should have a few days to wrap your mind around it. The list should encompass 2 things. 


1 of 2. Packing of a primary/secondary "ready-pack". What's a ready pack? Pretend your going on a weekend trip, somewhere faaaaaaaar away where you might need "extra" essentials to stay comfortable. It should fit in a suitcase, and be readily available. 

2 of 2 (3). A list within a list; Give yourself proper planning, go through the house and make a mental note (or you could use sticky notes) of things in the order they should be packed. Whether you hire professional help, or drag your friends along, you will all be better off knowing what goes where. 

4. Whatever you do, do it BIG. Get plenty of boxes, the sizes matter depending on the items being packed, but the main point is to always have one available until the job is done. If need be, buy them from U-Haul, where they have a buy-back program. Also, get trash bags. If you're anything like the rest of the world, you've got trash, and for some reason, when we move, there's always plenty to be thrown away. 

5. If you're DIY, get yourself a U-Haul truck, the $19.95 you'll spend will be more than worth it in the end. Remember how much stuff you have, and choose the size of truck accordingly. 

6. Get a head start on the moving; Cancel the proper utilities, start them at your new house, if you were renting, get a move-out company to finish the detailed work at your old place. 

When the move-out is done, and the move-in begins....here are your last 4 tips to make the transition smooth.

1. Remember that list, with the "ready pack"? That should be with you. Take a gander at that, and make a mental plan of how you want your new place to look. The worst thing you could do for a proper move in is to leave stuff alone. Once you get the feel, begin to bring in the furniture, or in most cases, the boxes. 

2. If you do have boxes, (hopefully they're labeled) open them immediately, not necessarily unpacked, but out in the open. If a free minute comes up, and the boxes are in the right rooms, this should be an easy way to unpack them. 

3. If you've not done it at the same time as the previous home's shut-off date, turn on the utilities, make yourself responsible for your new home. 

4. Lastly, I'm suggesting you give yourself a date. The date should be no more than a 2 week period from the time you set foot in your new home. This date is the timer for "you better be moved in".....If your having trouble, make a party out of it. Invite new friends to come over for a house-warming....When they show up give them a room, let them help.  

There you have it. Another list. Moving in or out of a home can be (and honestly shouldn't be) a grand event. You want it to be a smooth ride. Give yourself a gift, be prepared. 
]]><![CDATA[How to be incredibly happy and love life all the time. ]]>Mon, 10 Oct 2011 18:31:22 -0800http://www.thedomesticassistants.com/1/post/2011/10/how-to-be-incredibly-happy-and-love-life-all-the-time.htmlHi! How are you? I do hope that you are as incredibly fantastic as I am. I've just put in 5.5 hours of real good manual labor (helping a client move) and I couldn't be happier. Why? you might ask? Because I can, that's why. Here's my 5 tips to get yourself pumped like me. (No steroids involved.) 

1. Do what you love. There's a very little percentage of people anymore that really take time out of what life they have left in them to do something not in their best interest. People are beginning to wake UP. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to program you with some special code enabling you to live the life you dream of. Sure you might not gain those successes right off the bat, but with effort, charisma, and heart, you can make money doing what you love. 

2. Surround yourself with people, GOOD people. It's only common sense that happiness and positivity recreate themselves. Want proof? Go listen to a motivational speaker, or something provocative on www.TED.com You'll be inspired. If you have someone in your life that you know can install this in you, invite them to lunch, go for a hike, have a brainstorm over a fresh juice from a juice bar in town. You'll feel better, and you'll act different, a change is brewing. 

3. Don't let anyone ever tell you "NO." A wholesome buzz-kill that word is. No one ever told me I couldn't succeed at my business of choice, and I'm telling you right now, life ain't that bad. This goes along with good people, but 9 times out of 10, they'll all have something nice to say. If someone is being under-appreciative, make new friends, there are plenty of fish in the sea. 

4. Bring your "A" game. It's not easy doing what you love, there will be trials and tribulations, more hoops than working at Target, that's for sure. Be sure that everything you're offering can be completed by you and you alone. Otherwise, get a partner, what if there are people out there that think the same? Whoa. 

5. Always have a back-up plan. I know of a few quotes that get this point across. "Measure twice, cut once.." "Know where you're exit rows are at all times". It helps your mentality to know that if something fails, the next best thing is waiting at home. Always be in the development stages. 

So as you can probably tell, this list revolves around being self-employed. I've also taken into consideration those who might not have a choice in the matter...

1. No matter what, HAVE FUN! There's no sense in doing something super boring and not making complete fun out of it. Change your thinking, change your life. Get co-workers involved, make HAVOC. (Just thinking about it makes me want to dance in the street, naked.) 

2. Remember that work is just work. There will be a point when you go home for the day, and with that....Make home fun. Remember those plastic basketball hoops that you could hang on any door in your house? Buy 5 of those, and hang them in the most odd places, i.e.~ front door, bathroom door. 

And there you have it, another great blog. Comment and share at your free will. Thanks. 

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