for which tasks should you stop the clock? - Virtual Assistant Forums

#1 (**permalink**) 06-21-2010

I see that a lot of time tracking software allows you to stop and start the clock as needed. Are there any tasks that may be related to being a VA but not specifically relevant enough to bill the client for? That is, is there a general rule of thumb for when you should stop the clock (besides the obvious unrelated interruptions)?

Thanks!
-Ro

#2 (**permalink**) 06-22-2010

I bill for anything directly related to the client's project or business development - including phone calls, emails, etc.

Are there any particular tasks you had in mind that you were uncertain about?

#3 (**permalink**) 06-22-2010

Yes, actually the ones you mentioned were what I wasn't sure about. Things like emails, phone calls, etc or basically corresponding with the client regarding projects were what I wanted to know about.

Thanks for clearing that up!
-Ro

#4 (**permalink**) 07-07-2010

I have been surprised by clients who questioned billing for this time. I do track this time, too.

Dawn
Cycle Business Solutions

#5 (**permalink**) 07-07-2010

I'm with Tess - if it is directly client-related, I bill for it!

#6 (**permalink**) 07-10-2010

Do you generally send them a detailed summary of WHAT You did or ONLY if they ask for it? I had a client ask for one recently and luckily I had it to give. I use Time Tracker.

#7 (**permalink**) 07-11-2010

For hourly clients, I bill in 15 minute increments. By doing this, I capture the time spent on routine email. If my client phones, I do make a note as to the start time of the call. That way, should the call last more than a few minutes, I can bill for the time.

I do not provide an itemized account of my activities. There is a measure of trust that needs to be in place between me and my client. I figure, my plumber does not provide an itemized bill of every step he took in the two hours of working on a leak, why would I?