1. I have 2 regular clients: 1 leadership coach and 1 large AI company. Together, they work no more than 10-15 hours/week. I also have periodic project work, which is usually 360-degree PowerPoint presentations or creating leadership retreat workbooks and reference guides. 
How do I prioritize? 

• Through active communication and responding in a timely manner.
• Having regular check-ins, usually weekly or bi-weekly.
• Use collaborative tools like Trello to keep on top of changing tasks and action items needed.
• Document interaction to keep detailed records of agreements and important discussions.
• Reviewing timelines and calendars.

2. If I am unclear on directions, I will search for and review previous like-kind documents, see if there are any prior documents or processes in place, and send an email with specific questions or quick text, depending on communication style preference. While I wait for a response, I prepare a draft as best I can and with enough time for the recipient to evaluate if the draft is what they are looking for or if I need to pivot to prepare something else. 

3. I spend the last 15 minutes of the day reviewing my to-do list to see if I need to roll over any tasks to the next day. I frequently email my client to check if there is anything else she needs before logging off for the day. To be honest, I always check my email in the evenings, too, just in case something urgent comes up.

4. How will I know if this is a good fit for me? By respecting each other and by being my partner, not my boss. You and I will partner throughout our journey together. My role often goes far beyond administrative tasks. I would be your trusted partner, strategic and creative advisor, proactive executor of ideas, precision proofreader, and all-around cheerleader. I don’t expect us to be perfect together, immediately. I am a realist. It may take some time to "feel each other out" about what is important.

5. A few years ago, a previous client and I were not in synch regarding the hours needed to perform specific additional projects. One project involved designing and creating branded templates for multiple platforms and applications, all while performing all my other administrative duties.

My client was quite upset with me when I charged additional hours to complete her branded templates. 

I asked to have a video chat about the situation so we could record our resolution and establish guidelines and a process moving forward. We both acknowledged a miscommunication and that we needed to verify that the additional project was outside the scope of the hours we had agreed upon. From then on, we met regularly to discuss current project schedules and timelines to fit within her budget. We continued to work together for five years. It made me more aware of the need to communicate clearly and often with my clients.

6. What is my experience with small business coaches? For the past 6 years, I have been partnering with multiple concurrent Executive Leadership Coaches to assist with their administrative tasks. Some require project work, some daily tasks such as inbox and calendar management. Some need the whole Mary Poppins experience. I know the need for flexibility with smaller businesses.  My ability to be flexible, proactive and independent with my virtual clients is a huge plus when partnering with me.