It's also about companionship. Most of us come from a job - a place where we are amongst many people and then when we venture out on our own, suddenly we're alone. No wonder many VAs return to a job in the first or second year of their business. It's not always about whether they're making enough money, or whether the business is surviving - it is often very much about the person who is running that business needing companionship. In my first couple of years I could see that being home alone … [Read more...]
How do I get a job opportunity if I have no experience?
This was a question asked of me recently and here's my answer: Do volunteer work. The reality is you need to build experience so the best way to do this is to volunteer. Are there charity organisations or other groups nearby that you could get involved with? Depending on the skill set you currently have, or want to develop, there is sure to be stuff you can do to help out. And if you don’t know of any groups, then look for Rotary - there are Rotary Clubs worldwide. Or Lions, or Apex … [Read more...]
Where do you find your clients?
I see VAs in many Facebook groups asking how they can find clients and that they've tried everything. The answers they often get are 'Facebook, LinkedIn' and other online places. For me it's not just about online but it is very much about where people can be found. Just thought I'd share with you where I found some of my current clients: NFP in the arbor industry - a 90 min speed networking event NFP in the employment sector - a referral from a fellow VA Professional … [Read more...]
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket!
Recently you would have seen my article about not having two accounts on Facebook. It amazes me just how many people justify why they do it and why they ignore the Terms of Service that Facebook has in place. It doesn't matter if you have multiple email addresses - I do too! But it does matter that you have only one account, not multiple accounts. And I wish people would understand the difference between a Profile and a Page. A profile is attached to your account and it's in YOUR OWN NAME. … [Read more...]
Usernames in social media
I've always worked with the same username on many social media tools, where possible, to develop a footprint on the web. That way if people Google my username they can find where I am online and the different places I've been active. How about you? Do you do the same? I encourage you to think about it. Here's a cool tool to see where your username has been used and whether it's available elsewhere and also as a domain. It's called Namech_k and I love that helps you to find out what domains … [Read more...]
Using LinkedIn for your mailing list
I'm amazed at how many people are just adding my contact details to their email lists because I agreed to connect with them at LinkedIn. They don't even ask permission - they just do it. That's a big 'no-no' and should NOT be done. I'm going to share with you some links from others telling the same thing but firstly, I want to encourage you to look at the User Agreement at LinkedIn. Wonder how many people actually read it? Particularly section 8 with the Do's and Don'ts. Let's just look at … [Read more...]
Do I need a website as a VA?
Simple answer is 'yes' - if you're going to operate a business virtually, it is important you have a web presence. I mean, most other businesses have websites don't they? So why not you too? Clients will want to check you out and also, once the search engines have got it listed, people should be able to find you when seeking out your particular type of service. I was asked this question and below is the answer I gave that new VA. However, if funds are tight you can choose to do some other … [Read more...]
New VA seeking business
On Google+ recently a new VA introduced herself and her business and outlined the services she was providing. She'd only been in business 6 months and was struggling to find clients and connect with people on LinkedIn. She had a very clever business name which I remarked on. Here is my answer to her which is suitable for all new VAs. Very clever name, love it and welcome Claire. Joining discussion groups is the best way for people to get to know you, whether it's here, at LinkedIn or … [Read more...]
Why I like being in BNI
A VA forum had a recent discussion on whether to join BNI or a Chamber of Commerce. As I'm a member of BNI here in Melbourne (East) I wrote about my own particular experience. I might work virtually but I meet these people face-to-face every week. I've gotten to know them and trust them. First thing anyone does in BNI is test the product/service of the other members. And they do this naturally through needs for their own business. So the printer, the accountant, the solicitor, the travel … [Read more...]
