Today TaskRabbit — the service platform that connects neighbors to get things done — is launching in Chicago. The collaborative service makes it easy to post anything you need done and have someone in your neighborhood complete it for you.
Similar to Zaarly, TaskRabbit lets you post a chore that needs to be completed and define the amount you’re willing to pay. Where the two services differ is in the task assignment. With Zaarly, anyone nearby can view the task and chat anonymously with you. When a bid comes in on TaskRabbit there is more to choose from than just price. The people volunteering — TaskRabbits — have filled out a profile and passed a background check. Task-posters can browse through ratings and reviews from previous jobs before selecting which TaskRabbit will win the bid.
Another difference between the two services is that every TaskRabbit goes through a four-step interview process, including submitting an application, a video interview, and a criminal background check. With Zaarly, anyone can be a task-runner. The additional security elements add an extra level of comfort and professionalism when relying on people from the Internet to complete your tasks. TaskRabbits, while probably trying to earn some extra cash, really have to be genuine about wanting to help people.
The whole point of TaskRabbit is to save precious time and so far it appears that the company has achieved that. Users have grown to really trust the service and so tasks have moved past just picking up dog food — which was what inspired Leah Busque to to start the business. The average TaskRabbit deal is now $45 and thousands of tasks are being added each month.
To celebrate their “hop” into Chicago, TaskRabbit is encouraging people to spend more time doing what they love. The “Do More. Live More. Be More” challenge is a 30day call to action. This campaign is meant to answer the bigger question, “what would you do with more free time?” and encourage people to make a commitment to themselves to take the time needed to accomplish whatever it is they want to do.
TaskRabbit has partnered with brands like Virgin America, Sephora, and Whole Foods to reward those who make a promise. Each week promise posters are eligible to win a prize. At the end of the challenge, one lucky winner will be rewarded with an all-expense-paid trip to anywhere in the continental U.S., courtesy of Virgin America.
If any of you wish you had more time for networking, now’s your chance! TaskRabbit is celebrating its Chicago launch from 7-10pm tonight at Mars Gallery. Click here to get more details and RSVP.
Since its launch, San Francisco-based TaskRabbit has expanded into Boston, Los Angeles, Orange County, New York City, and now, Chicago.
To keep up with updates and city expansions, follow them on Twitter @TaskRabbit.
