In this personal account, Katy Allen shares her journey as a business owner and mother of three. She discusses how hiring an assistant has transformed her daily routine, enabling her to manage both her professional and personal responsibilities more effectively. By delegating household tasks to reliable helpers, Katy has found a balance that allows her to be more present with her children and excel in her career. This essay explores the practical steps she takes to find the right help and integrate them seamlessly into her life.

The Role of Assistants in Enhancing Productivity

Hiring assistants has significantly improved Katy's ability to manage her busy schedule. By entrusting various household chores to these helpers, she can focus on her business and family without feeling overwhelmed. The support provided by these individuals allows Katy to close mental tabs that would otherwise distract her from important tasks. This arrangement has led to greater success at work and increased quality time spent with her children.

To ensure smooth integration, Katy emphasizes finding the right fit for her needs. Living near a university has been advantageous, as most of her helpers are students or recent graduates. These young professionals bring fresh perspectives and adaptability to their roles. Katy describes her helpers as "second mes," capable of handling diverse tasks ranging from processing returns to organizing household items. When it comes to recruitment, she looks for individuals who can seamlessly blend into her lifestyle. If advertising is necessary, she clearly outlines the flexible nature of the job, ensuring potential candidates understand the variety of tasks involved.

Building Trust and Automating Processes

A key aspect of Katy's approach is automating processes to reduce her workload. By establishing a set schedule and providing access to her home, she minimizes the need for constant supervision. This setup allows her helper to work independently, often without direct interaction. Katy uses digital tools like Google Docs to maintain a running list of tasks, which her helper can update and comment on. This system fosters communication and ensures transparency, allowing Katy to process updates when convenient.

Trust plays a crucial role in Katy's relationship with her helpers. Sharing sensitive information such as login credentials requires a high level of confidence in her employees. Fortunately, she has not encountered any trust issues, though one helper did not fit well personality-wise. In such cases, Katy remains open to reevaluating and adjusting her team. To those considering hiring help, she advises starting small and gradually increasing hours based on comfort and impact. For Katy, the investment in assistance has paid off, leading to enhanced productivity and a better quality of life.