Media Release
September 14th, 2005
Assistant.co.nz - a completely new way of connecting experienced administrators with clients who need them.
Assistant.co.nz was created to address the growing shortage of experienced administrators in the workforce in addition
to providing a genuine work from home option, primarily for stay-at-home mums.
Founder Tara Wellby says “I knew there was a disconnect here. On one side there are lots of talented mums with
administration experience who would love to work a few hours a day from home and they’re already set up with a computer,
printer and internet connection; everything you need to do business in today’s world. On the other hand, many businesses
are struggling to find good administration staff. Quite simply it’s about putting two and two together.”
Starting in Auckland, Tara wants to take the business national. “We’re not limited to location; the only rule at present
is that I have to be able to meet with the Assistants for a face to face interview. With assistants sourced, interviewed
and referenced by Assistant.co.nz, clients save time and money and feel reassured knowing that their work will be
handled confidentially and professionally.
Assistant.co.nz can provide all the traditional administration services in addition to ‘personal life’ assistance for
busy executives; jobs such as organizing renovations, birthday parties, even just being there to let the plumber in.
It’s an administration service on tap; assistance when you need it, but with none of the costs associated with permanent
employees.
With over 10 years experience in administration Tara Wellby was well placed to make this business idea a reality.
Knowing what makes a great assistant was just the beginning. Her experience includes personal assistance to high level
executives of top New Zealand companies, and a successful partnership in the UK promoting and organising corporate
hospitality and events.
Nearly eight months pregnant herself, Tara Wellby has not allowed it to slow her down. “If anything, getting pregnant
has spurred me on to establish the business faster. I didn’t like the thought of trying to live off one income when
we’re used to living our life from two. And I wanted to provide other women with that choice too. I like the thought of
putting money into homes that don’t ordinarily get the opportunity and providing a top quality administration service to
business. By helping as many women as I can into this type of work, I’m hoping for a positive spin-off effect for the
community.”
“When I talked to my first assistants, I realised that this could be life changing for women. They were excited about
the possibility of earning money from home while still being there for their kids. It’s also an opportunity for the
Assistants to maintain and update their skills so if they decide later on that they want to re-enter the workforce, they
can. The mums I’ve spoken to say that sometimes they get stuck in a rut and feel that their life has become limited to
looking after their children. This also helps to readdress that imbalance.”
So is it a feminist revolution? “Well it is a bit like girl power isn’t it? This is a real opportunity for more women to
get into business.
ENDS