I was in the Cook Islands earlier this year. Although I ended up doing some work, that wasn’t what I was there for. Iain and I were on our honeymoon. We got to know the owner of Dive Aitutaki and wanted to help him out. I’ve put together a couple of tips for extra work that can crop up from time to time.
Aitutaki is one of the Cook Islands, north of Rarotonga. While there we were keen to go diving. When the owner of the dive business discovered that I am a software developer, he wanted to talk shop.
Onu wanted to upgrade his Dive Aitutaki website to a platform that he could self-manage. We had a chat, sorted out a few things and when I returned from my honeymoon I improved his website for him.
I was happy to help. Iain and I also enjoyed extra perks like some additional diving opportunities amongst turtles and moray eels.
The decision of whether or not to help someone can be difficult. I wasn’t looking for work but was interested in helping Onu improve his website. I created a WordPress site that the diving business can self-manage.
Dive Aitutaki is now enjoying a more functional website. People are using the site to inquire about diving services and to make bookings. Onu’s delighted with the outcome.
Tania’s Top Tips
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Ad hoc work is a great opportunity to learn new skills and add value in an area you wouldn’t normally get to work in (but clear it with your employer first)
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Clarify all expectations before starting the work
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Give careful thought to what’s involved including time spent on phone conversations and emails
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If you’re in different countries consider the time difference
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Prioritise planning and designs in the early phases of development
I am pleased that I was able to do the work for Dive Aitutaki. I enjoyed having the opportunity to share my skills with someone who lives in a country where my skills are rare. I got on well with Onu and was happy to give his business a boost.
