just starting out in west michigan

**wmiusic** · August 20th, 2011, 05:36 PM

I,m just starting out on my own I thing im getting into the swing of it. I'm doin about 8 locates a day without feeling like I'm rushing. i've been out of training about two weeks just wandering if 8 locates a day is good for now or if i shuld be movin a little faster

**sprayandpray** · August 20th, 2011, 07:28 PM

Originally Posted by wmiusic

I,m just starting out on my own I thing im getting into the swing of it. I'm doin about 8 locates a day without feeling like I'm rushing. i've been out of training about two weeks just wandering if 8 locates a day is good for now or if i shuld be movin a little faster

Speed will come naturally - not everyone is the same. Work at a pace you can maintain safely without leaving a locate you don't feel good about. It will become more routine with more experience.

**RD_Wrangler** · August 20th, 2011, 07:41 PM

Originally Posted by sprayandpray

Speed will come naturally - not everyone is the same. Work at a pace you can maintain safely without leaving a locate you don't feel good about. It will become more routine with more experience.

I second Spray's opinion.

Depending on your locate density (how many utilities you do at each request) I would say 8 per day is pretty good for being on your own for 2 weeks. Particularly if it's in a 3 to 4 way area.

**6feetunder** · August 21st, 2011, 09:57 AM

Originally Posted by wmiusic

I,m just starting out on my own I thing im getting into the swing of it. I'm doin about 8 locates a day without feeling like I'm rushing. i've been out of training about two weeks just wandering if 8 locates a day is good for now or if i shuld be movin a little faster

At only two weeks in the field don't feel like you have to do X amount of any type of ticket per day. Concentrate on doing the jobs right and coming up with a process/routine that works for you. Don't be afraid to call someone either even if your question might be stupid. Don't start thinking about how much you are doing until 6 months to a year in. Like Spray said the speed will come naturally in time. This job comes with enough pressure already so don't put anymore on yourself.

**Bad Robot** · August 21st, 2011, 10:01 AM

Agreed to all, and I'll add this. Take your time to find what works for you. Get into a routine that works, and stick to it. Eventually you will get in a great groove and much of what you do will be second nature. Above all, work safely. Always be aware of your surroundings. If something doesn't feel/ seem right, get a second opinion. Good luck!

**TheCableVine** · August 21st, 2011, 01:26 PM

I may as well throw my 2 cents in here. You are worried about your production but your management isn't. They are worried about whether or not you understand what you are doing and that you are doing it right. You should be worried about that over production.

8 locates a day I believe is just about right for 2 weeks in the field. Now, forget about that and concentrate on doing it right. Speed will come naturally.

**yahoo** · August 21st, 2011, 07:36 PM

8 is a good number for now.....take your time as said above.....you'll b thankful one day for listening

**Codify** · August 22nd, 2011, 12:23 AM

Originally Posted by wmiusic

I,m just starting out on my own I thing im getting into the swing of it. I'm doin about 8 locates a day without feeling like I'm rushing. i've been out of training about two weeks just wandering if 8 locates a day is good for now or if i shuld be movin a little faster

Ill just echo what others are saying, Don't rush. Take as much time as you need. Always double check your prints. If you get confused call someone, There is never a stupid question. Although I might laugh, you should ask =] Good luck guy!