You may be aware I run a Virtual Assistant training course and in the process, students are required to send me their homework from each week’s lesson.
One thing that has really stood out to me is that sometimes they try to complicate things when in fact it should be kept simple.
What do I mean? Well, for example just creating client files. Some have thought of some security measure, others have used different filing systems other than alphabetized, some use codes and so on.
What they are used to is systems they used in the corporate world for large organisations that had a lot of staff and even more clients.
BUT, often these systems are not needed in a home based office with one worker (the VA) and one computer and a small filing system.
So, my message and tip for VAs out there is – don’t complicate things! Use the KISS principle – ‘Keep it simple, stupid’ and you’ll be able to set things up quickly, retrieve things quickly and if you do require help in your office at some time, it will be easy to hand over to someone else without long explanations and documentation.
Eileen Williams says
I think it’s fantastic that you have organized and are teaching a VA course. I’m sure that your students are gaining greatly from your knowledge and expertise. Running a business from home would entail using different methods to oversee files, etc. and I love the idea of the KISS principle. It seems that many large organizations do themselves a disservice because there are so many layers to even straightforward projects. No need to do that from home!
Virtual Girl Friday 4 Hire says
I feel better about not having an extensive filing system after reading this. I agree with Eileen Williams large corporations have so many parts just to create a simple result. I think that they waste time, money and creativity by making things more complicated and less straightforward.
Debra Stokes says
Great information, Kathie. I have a young friend who is gearing up her VA business and I refer her to your site all the time. I’m going to pass this along to her. You’re a great source.
Thanks for sharing.