To work with our team more effectively, using Basecamp correctly is important. This is just a quick runthrough of some things you should avoid doing on Basecamp. Please check out our ‘THE DO’s OF BASECAMP’ article for more information!
X DON’T add tasks as ‘to-do lists’
Don’t create tasks as entire to-do lists, this is very messy and inefficient. Instead, create to-do lists as categories. For example, ‘Social Media’, then create related tasks underneath it such as ‘create a FB page’ and ‘create an Instagram’.
X DON’T put too many steps in a single task
Avoid creating long-winding instructions. If you’re describing a million things, there’ll be more chances for the VAs to lose what you’re trying to say. Try breaking down complicated tasks into separate tasks such as – ‘Set up my FB page’ and then ‘Design me a profile for FB’
X DON’T add additional tasks within existing/completed tasks
Don’t add new tasks in the comments of an existing task or one that has already been completed. It is very messy and confusing to have a new task added on after all the communication that already occurred for the original task. Simply create a new task in the to-do list.
X DON’T make instructions too brief or too long
The general rule of thumb about instructions is that if (when you check your own instructions) you don’t understand it, neither will the VA. Avoid being too brief or too detailed. Being on either of the extreme may mean we have to constantly go back and forth with you instead of working efficiently.
If it’s too long, break it down – either into smaller tasks or try explaining with a screencast to make it clearer.
X DON’T expect rushed jobs to be done perfectly
We try to finish tasks promptly but demanding urgent tasks creates pressure and this may affect how effectively we can complete tasks. Expect 24 hours for an initial response and a minimum 48 hours for task completion. Otherwise, please be understanding if work is less than perfect if you’re asking for quick fixes.
X DON’T be mean, but DON’T FORGET to be assertive
This is a bit of a balancing act, but it’s not too complicated. Treat your VAs like your friends – if you’re kind to them, they’ll feel much more empowered and will work even better for you. But still try to be assertive. If you don’t give any feedback on what you’d like them to work on and how you’d prefer things done, they won’t be able to improve. Just make sure you are respectful and friendly while you do so.
