Here's a little idea around finding more work from your client by looking carefully at the tasks they're sending you. It's something I've done a lot - and it has never failed to generate more work for me.    


How I turn a single task into more than one:


I've found that by looking carefully at tasks my clients have sent me, I can often spot follow-on tasks that they may like me to do.  Here is an example:


Original Task: Create a List of KFC Competitors


Potential Tasks:
  • I can provide a breakdown of each competitor with all the relevant details of each
  • I can provide you with a weekly update of what new things your competitors are doing and what needs to be brought to your attention
  • I can provide you with a market research report of what fast Food customers are currently looking for from fast food chains
  • I can provide you with a breakdown of your competitors marketing strategies and report what does and doesn't work for your target market
  • If you provide me with your food supply costs and services I can provide you with a monthly check of whether you can source your products cheaper to give you a competitive edge


Here's how I put this into action:


Once I have finished the original task (e.g. Create a list of KFC competitors), I send a quick email to my client suggesting the follow-on tasks that I suggest may be helpful.   They don't always take me up on this, but when they do it not only generates valuable additional work for me, but it also helps to show my clients that I am always thinking about how to help them!


For extra tips and tricks relating to this subject look here.


Penni Pike, formerly assistant to Sir Richard Branson