Meet Christina, an Elite Tasker in the Phoenix area with years of IKEA building experience. When TaskRabbit went live in Arizona back in 2018, Christina knew it was her chance to capitalize on her assembly experience while taking back control of her schedule. She jumped on the opportunity, and has been Tasking ever since. Read on for her full story!
Why did you become a Tasker?
I became a Tasker because I love building IKEA furniture—it’s always been cathartic for me.
How did you find out about TaskRabbit?
I was working for IKEA when I read that they had purchased TaskRabbit. I live and work in the Phoenix metro area, so when TR went live in AZ, I jumped on it. I honestly didn’t know what to expect, but I knew that if IKEA owned it it would be good.
Do you task part-time or full-time?
Full-time.
Do you have other jobs or activities that you are involved in?
I don’t work any other jobs currently, because TaskRabbit keeps me really busy.
How did you learn your skills?
I worked as a visual merchandiser for 4 years, and I love problem solving. These two things together helped me realize that if I ask questions and research things for myself, I can do pretty much anything. I’ve gotten really familiar with shopping at hardware stores as a result.
What were your biggest learnings as you got started on the app?
Always ask a lot of questions before showing up to a task. Clients don’t know what they don’t know, so as the expert, I always need to be asking questions in order to make sure they get the best results.
Can you share how you’ve built your career/business on TaskRabbit?
I don’t really market myself before meeting clients, but I always talk to them like they’re family and I offer whatever advice I can provide about design or product placement. My 5 years of experience with IKEA furniture also seems to sell itself.
Can you describe ways in which TaskRabbit has impacted your life?
Being able to make my own schedule right now has been a lifesaver. My daughter is still attending school from home, so being able to flex my schedule around her needs has really taken out a lot of my mental stress.
Do you have a memorable task experience or a project that you’re especially proud of?
I was recently asked if I knew how to apply wallpaper with paste. I didn’t, but I watched a few videos and Googled a few things and thought I’d just give it a shot. It turned out really great and I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was. I felt like I’d just accomplished something huge without any training.
Do you have a specialty that Clients hire you for?
Mounting and Hanging.
What makes you successful as a Tasker?
I make an effort to get to know each client, and I ask questions that let them know I’m hearing everything they’re saying.
Do you have any suggestions for Clients who are looking to book a Tasker for the first time?
Price shouldn’t trump the number of positive reviews. If a Tasker is inexpensive, do some digging to figure out why before you book them. Check their reviews to make sure they’re reliable and capable.
What are your personal interests or hobbies outside of tasking?
Gardening is my absolute favorite hobby.
Tasking hasn’t just given Christina a means to support herself; it’s enabled her to utilize her skills to help other people while also taking care of her loved ones.
