From quote request to the first handed-off task

From request to your first week

Here is how the arrangement typically moves from a form to real work.

1. You send the quote form describing your tasks, hours and tools.
2. The service partner contacts you, asks questions and sends a scope and quote.
3. After you agree terms, you share written procedures and set up access.
4. In the first week the assistant works a short task list while you check each piece of work.

A short preparation list

Use this to sort out the handover before the start date.

• What tasks, in what order of priority
• How each one is done today
• Which tools hold the work
• How the assistant will get access
• What the assistant can decide alone
• What must always be approved by you or your accountant

Keeping access secure

An assistant needs access to your systems, but that does not mean handing over your own password. Safer habits are easy to set up:

• Use delegation where it exists, such as mailbox and calendar delegation in Google Workspace or Microsoft 365.
• Give the assistant their own login in tools that support extra users, so actions are traceable.
• Share anything else through a password manager rather than email or chat.
• Turn on two-factor authentication and plan how the assistant will pass it.
• Grant the least privilege each task needs.
• Have an offboarding list ready to remove access when the arrangement ends.

Check-ins, changes and ending

Three habits matter most after the start.

First, written updates. A daily or weekly summary of finished work and open questions keeps you informed without hovering.

Second, a standing check-in. Fifteen minutes on a regular day is plenty to correct course, share upcoming priorities and add tasks.

Third, a clean way out. Know the notice period in your agreement, and keep the list of accounts the assistant can reach up to date so access can be removed promptly if the arrangement ends. Changes to hours along the way are agreed with the service partner.