One of the great things about our industry is there there is a wealth of information out there - within and outside our industry, that we can all benefit from. There are four such events coming up in the next two weeks that would be of benefit to every VA out there. Of course, you have to guard your time (and your money if there is a cost involved) however you do need to weigh up whether the new knowledge or skill you gain will be of great benefit to your business and that of your clients. So, … [Read more...]
Should I charge low?
It's a common question I hear from those who are new Virtual Assistants just starting out. They're keen to get their first clients and think because they're new they should be charging low. The answer to this is no, no, and a resounding NO. Don't undervalue yourselves. Just because you're new to the industry doesn't mean your value is any less. What about all the experience you have behind you? And I'm assuming you do have experience otherwise you should not be starting up a VA … [Read more...]
Joining a Virtual Assistant Network makes sense
I use Google Alert a lot to keep me informed of the industry and also about things relating to my clients' businesses. One thing I often see are blogs about where to find a Virtual Assistant or comments on blogs from new VAs who are keen to find work, clients and learn more about the industry they've joined. What amazes me is that a simple Google search will direct people to the Virtual Assistant Networks that are out there and yet so many seem to miss this fact. Virtual Assistant Networks or … [Read more...]
Virtual Assistants – use your own domain for email
Many emails are sent by business people, and particularly business owners, using free email accounts such as hotmail, yahoo, and others. Often these addresses don't appear professional and it's hard to know if the sender is genuine or not. If you want to provide a professional image, consider this: A domain name reflects your business name or your particular industry - why not use it as potential for telling people who you are and what you do? Because of number one above, it helps people to … [Read more...]
Want to set up a Virtual Assistant business?
Perhaps you're not sure where to start or how to go about it. Why not let me help you get started? With over 17 years in business, and having founded the industry in my country as it birthed around the world, I am well placed to guide you in setting up a VA practice and build a satisfying business. I spent the first 10 years in the industry mentoring other upcoming VAs till it occurred to me I really should develop something that was more structured. Enter VATrainer.com which was launched in … [Read more...]
Remember, you’re on duty 24/7
If you operate a business online and have a web presence, it's important to remember you're on duty 24/7. You might not be at the computer all of those hours, but your written words are. So always having your best on display is important, no matter where you venture on the web. Email, website, Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+ and other social media tools, chat forums, discussion groups. Doesn't matter really where, if it's online and potential clients or business associates can read it, then … [Read more...]
Commitment – it’s a big word
I get really concerned when I hear about Virtual Assistants that let clients and their fellow VAs down. When you're in business the buck stops with you - there is no-one else. And so when you take on a commitment to support a client or fellow VA the onus is on you to get the work done. Recently I had a client contact me who was desperate to get some work finished. She had engaged a VA, paid for the project in advance and the job was only half done before a family emergency on behalf of the VA … [Read more...]
Setting goals for your VA business
When you first start out with your Virtual Assistant business it's easy to get caught up in the daily activities of finding clients, setting up systems, establishing what your service offerings are going to be, learning from other VAs and so on. There does come a point in time though when you could begin to feel like you're always working, always marketing, always doing something, but very little for yourself. Setting goals for yourself is a good way to help you get focus - providing … [Read more...]
Do they walk their talk?
If you're looking to become a Virtual Assistant, or perhaps you are already one, but looking to advance yourself further in the industry, then there will come a time when you seek further training, or a mentor, or even a network or two or more to join. Who you align yourself with, and learn from, is important. I encourage you to research the networks you choose to join, the training you decide to take, the person or people you wish to have as mentors. Do the leaders, owners, trainers, mentors … [Read more...]
