Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.6.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # VA Directory VA Directory - Connecting clients with Virtual Assistants ## Posts - [VAD Blog](https://www.vadirectory.net/acsblog/) - [EOFY Special - VA Trainer for $250AUD](https://www.vadirectory.net/eofy-special-va-trainer-for-250aud/) - EOFY Special - VA Trainer. Start Your VA Career Today. As we wrap up another financial year, there’s no better time to invest in your future. - [Beware of being 'faceless'](https://www.vadirectory.net/beware-of-being-faceless/) - I got an approach recently, from a company wanting me to outsource my VA work to them. They told me they wanted to partner with me. Naturally I went and visited their site and in particular, checked out their 'about page'. Pretty much a stock standard paragraph or two on the services they provide but - [VA Trainer Limited Time Offer](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-trainer-limited-time-offer/) - Start Your VA in Under 12 Weeks! Are you interested in running your very own Virtual Assistant business but don’t know where to start? - [Tax Time ... Some Useful Tips](https://www.vadirectory.net/tax-time-some-useful-tips/) - It's that time of the year yet again! TAX TIME! This is simply a short guide, so check with yours first and for any additional expenses you can claim. - [Finding Clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/finding-clients/) - Finding Clients | Finding Clients Not long ago we had a discussion in the VA Directory Facebook Group about how we go about finding clients. Marketing tips. - [When is a VA not a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-va/) - That depends on your definition of what a VA is. The Virtual Assistant industry was birthed in the mid 1990s and consisted of women mainly (at that time) who had been working from home offices as home-based secretaries or administrators or personal assistants for a select number of clients. When technology made it easier for - [The Next 90 Days ... Planning and Goal Setting](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-next-90-days-planning-and-goal-setting/) - 90-day goals can help you focus your efforts and create a roadmap to success. Here are some tips on how to set effective goals for your business. - [3 Tips for Gaining More Time in Your Day](https://www.vadirectory.net/3-tips-for-gaining-more-time-in-your-day/) - Solopreneurs often bemoan the fact that their to-do lists are miles long and they wish they had more time in the day to get all their tasks done. Add in the number of clients they have to serve during the week and the stress can become overbearing. Even though we all have only 24 hours - [Outsource Your Way to Happiness](https://www.vadirectory.net/outsource-your-way-to-happiness/) - If your business is sucking your happiness dry, it’s time to make some changes to alleviate your stress. One way to free up some of your time is to hire a virtual assistant to take over some of the daily or weekly administrative tasks needed to run your business. Hiring a VA can certainly be - [5 Ways to De-Stress Your Christmas …](https://www.vadirectory.net/5-ways-to-de-stress-your-christmas/) - Christmas can be a very festive and fun time of the year but it can also be quite stressful to its lead up, especially if you are running a business. - [Connect Her Podcast with VA Directory](https://www.vadirectory.net/connect-her-podcast-with-va-directory/) - During August, I had the pleasure of being interviewed on the Connect Her Podcast with Lee Cummins, where I spoke about the VA industry, how I got into it and all about VA Directory. Grab a cuppa and get comfy on your favourite chair and have a giggle with us (I'm so not an expert - [Tips For Working At Home](https://www.vadirectory.net/tips-for-working-at-home/) - Talk of the coronavirus is rife at the time of writing this post. We're about 10 weeks or so into when the virus began to break out into the world. No-one knew what it might mean in their countries and at home, and we're, as yet, to learn how long this might go on for. - [Wondering how our VAs can help you?](https://www.vadirectory.net/wondering-how-our-vas-can-help-you/) - I recently ran a poll on our VA Facebook Group and this is the result of the poll responses. This chart may change, over time, as more VAs join our group and respond to it, but I thought it might help you to see the types of things that can be done for you. It - [New update coming soon](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-update-coming-soon/) - We're currently testing new directory software and all members will be invited to set up their new listing soon. What will this mean for our readers and potential clients? An easier way to search for a VA that suits your needs so you can contact them direct, or you can still work through the form - [Whose service are you using for email?](https://www.vadirectory.net/whose-service-are-you-using-for-email/) - Have you been missing receiving important email and are using a MS based email service? Here's a good argument for having your own domain for sending and receiving email. I shared this with my VA group on Facebook this week. Are you using a Microsoft owned email address? That is hotmail, live.com or outlook.com? Think - [Introducing our new Manager](https://www.vadirectory.net/introducing-our-new-manager/) - I'm delighted to advise that long-time colleague and VA associate Anita Kilkenny has been engaged as the new Manager for VA Directory, as from today, 1st October 2020. Anita and I have actively worked together on a few committees and also co-founded both the Australian VA Conference and Australian VA Association together over 10 years - [Benefits of multiple clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/benefits-of-multiple-clients/) - Despite the Virtual Assistant Industry being a good 20+ years of age, there are still people entering our industry with the wrong idea. Probably because there is so much misinformation out there. Which is a real shame, as it puts newbie VAs on the wrong foot to start with, and many potential clients also, when - [Warning for new VAs - accepting payments from clients.](https://www.vadirectory.net/warning-for-new-vas-accepting-payments-from-clients/) - This post comes as the result of reading a sad story from a new VA who had purchased items on the behalf of a new client, who then paid her back with a bad check. Had I heard before this was to happen I would have told her "don't do it!". This is a common - [Including your children in your workplace at home](https://www.vadirectory.net/including-your-children-in-your-workplace-at-home/) - With the current world wide isolations in place, because of COVID-19, many of us are now working at home, be it our own business, or for a boss and, for many, this also means having the kids at home. The two can mix quite amicably but it can take time to settle into a routine. - [Are you Zoom'd out?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-zoomd-out/) - If you're like me and starting to have regular online meetings, you may find yourself doing far too many, in too little time. I've heard some are spending hours every day in online meetings. Was that the norm for you? Regular daily meetings? Remember you are in control of your diary. Set a routine and - [Are you Zoom'd out?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-zoomd-out/) - If you're like me and starting to have regular online meetings, you may find yourself doing far too many, in too little time. I've heard some are spending hours every day in online meetings. Was that the norm for you? Regular daily meetings? Remember you are in control of your diary. Set a routine and - [With all this craziness - we're still here!](https://www.vadirectory.net/with-all-this-craziness-were-still-here/) - The economy has gone crazy with what's happening around the world in relation to the coronavirus but I wanted to let our client base know that we're still here. No-one knows how this is going to play out but there are still businesses running, there is still work being done, and there are many of - [Virtual Assistants and COVID-19](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistants-and-covid-19/) - I had the privilege of being asked to participate in a panel discussion with 4 other industry leaders, Ingrid Bayer, Liz Parker, Rosie Shilo and Susan Wilkin, here in Australia, being run by AAVIP. It was a great discussion, with all sorts of ideas on what VAs can do to help their existing clients, and - [Are Virtual Assistants Good or Bad for Business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-virtual-assistants-good-or-bad-for-business/) - I recently answered this question at Quora and thought I'd bring the discussion here on my own site. My answer was in response to the inference that they could be damaging to someone's business. And there seems to me, that some think you just engage a VA when you want something done - they don't - [I want to make...](https://www.vadirectory.net/i-want-to-make/) - In some groups online I see new, or relatively new VAs talking about how much they want to earn a month and when by. I can see why they do it - putting it out there and the universe (may) help you get there. But sometimes, just sometimes, the figures mentioned are probably beyond achievable - [Networking isn't just about building a business...](https://www.vadirectory.net/networking-isnt-just-about-building-a-business/) - 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 - [Using the term 'Virtual Assistant'](https://www.vadirectory.net/using-the-term-virtual-assistant/) - Some people get hung up on the term VA or Virtual Assistant and I responded to a query awhile back, inadvertently upsetting the person who asked the question. That wasn't my intention at all. She'd asked about using the term 'Virtual Assistant' and if that made clients disrespect us. I didn't think so and my - [How do you find your clients?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-you-find-your-clients/) - I was asked this simple question recently in a VA forum and here's my simple answer. It was in relation to my work as a Secretariat for Not -for-Profit organisations but the same can apply for any line of work in our industry. They find me :-) Word-of-mouth referrals through networking and meeting other people, - [How do I get a job opportunity if I have no experience?](https://www.vadirectory.net/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, - [Is $5 an hour too cheap for a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-5-an-hour-too-cheap-for-a-va/) - I answer a lot of questions at Quora - are you familiar with this site? Today I was asked if $5 an hour too cheap for a VA. My answer was this: Depends on a number of things: Where you live and your cost of living The currency you’re working with The type of services - [What are the typical start up costs for a VA business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-are-the-typical-start-up-costs-for-a-va-business/) - It really depends on what type of services you're planning to provide and my answer below is fairly generic. As a VA who provides general secretarial and administrative support, the initial costs were: a reliable computer - most people already own this but didn't when I started in 1994 a reliable printer - ditto above - [No Commissions Payable](https://www.vadirectory.net/no-commissions-payable/) - I see, in various places, people asking if they should join freelancing sites like Upwork, Freelancer and others. I can't answer for all freelancers, but I can answer for those who call themselves Virtual Assistants and the answer I have is this: Joining a VA Network or Directory means paying an annual or monthly - [Jobs or roles? What are you seeking?](https://www.vadirectory.net/jobs-or-roles-what-are-you-seeking/) - I love hanging out in the different VA forums to see what is being discussed, what's the latest trend, and what else I might be able to learn. Along the way, I share of my own experiences and knowledge, and hopefully am helpful to a few, or many. In a recent post a new VA - [Managing multiple clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/managing-multiple-clients/) - Saw a poll in a VA forum recently asking about juggling clients and how challenging it can be and then asking how many clients members had. The highest choice was in the 1-3 bracket. I was the only one (to date) who had more than 7. I guess the real thing is about juggling time. - [How I began](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-i-began/) - This is a question that is asked in VA forums from time to time. I had worked in the corporate world for 22 years, starting out just typing envelopes all day long and building my way up to being a PA to a Director of a government department. Eventually I became an EA for a - [What is the typical start up cost for a VA business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-is-the-typical-start-up-cost-for-a-va-business/) - I was asked this question recently on a forum and thought it a good one to share here too. I didn't know what type of business the person asking was going to operate but I shared on what I do and what is now possible for VAs. I should add that it's important you provide - [Which website platform should I choose?](https://www.vadirectory.net/which-website-platform-to-choose/) - I see this question so much on Facebook groups and elsewhere. 'I want to build a website - what tool or program should I use?' Or variations of 'I don't have much money and I want to use something that doesn't cost a lot'. The answer to me, is quite straightforward, but I need to - [Do the research!](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-the-research/) - I feel saddened when I hear about VAs who have set themselves up as a trainer, or coach, or mentor or something and then start giving inaccurate advise. It's so important for you, the one who is wanting to learn, to do the research and make sure that whomever you're going to pay for advice, - [My heartfelt thanks to the Virtual Assistant Community](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-heartfelt-thanks-to-the-virtual-assistant-community/) - It's kind of ironic that my previous post is about the support VA communities provide. Because only one day later our darling Miriam, aged 24, died whilst her father and I were away in the country. We rushed back home as soon as we heard. I'm not yet ready to resurface to all the forums. - [The importance of building up others](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-importance-of-building-up-others/) - I've been feeling a bit down of late. A couple of pieces of sad news had come my way and things have been going somewhat crazy in my own life and business. I haven't been feeling as much in control of my time as I usually like to be and also had to take over - [The day I stop learning](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-day-i-stop-learning/) - I've shared on this topic before, particularly back in July 2017 and sharing on it again. It's so important when we're in business to make sure we make time for us - for our own professional development and personal learnings. We get busy with client things, we get busy inside our businesses managing it daily - [Confusion reigns - employee or contractor?](https://www.vadirectory.net/confusion-reigns-employee-or-contractor/) - Once again the topic about employee vs contractor raises its head. It gets particularly complicated here in Australia, for example, when our tax office (ATO) confuses the general public out there what it means. And then we also get remote offshore employees who work for agencies, charging very low hourly/weekly/monthly rates providing similar services. - [Where do you find your clients?](https://www.vadirectory.net/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 - [Celebrating 25 years in business](https://www.vadirectory.net/celebrating-25-years-in-business/) - Next Sunday, 24 March 2019, marks 25 years in business for me. My husband is going to take me out to celebrate. Have I made millions a year? No, although I can say it's been a healthy amount over that period of time. Enough to help support and feed our family, pay for office equipment, - [Facebook down?](https://www.vadirectory.net/facebook-down/) - Have you been missing Facebook? Many of us haven't had access to it for close to 24 hours - it's been down. So has Instagram for that matter. Now, that's all well and good, it's only a social media tool, right? Wrong! Many use it for marketing. But what if that is your ONLY form - [New website per member!](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-website-per-member/) - I'm thrilled to share that I've partnered with an Australian based web design company to offer all of our VA Directory members a website. It has a 30 day free trail to play with it and, after that, if the VA decides they want to keep it, it's just a small monthly fee. The sites - [No, not everyone can be a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/no-not-everyone-can-be-a-va/) - Seems, these days, that if someone is between jobs, seeking to run a business but has no idea what, or has a job they hate and want to leave, the common cry is 'Why not become a VA? Anyone can do it!' Well, I'm here to say that's not the case. Not everyone. It takes - [The Value of Professional Development](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-value-of-professional-development/) - Regular readers here will know that I often write and talk about the importance of networking and belonging to groups to help build both you, and your business. I came across a post today, written by fellow long-time VA, Kathy Colaiacovo who is based in Canada. She shares about Professional Development: How One Membership brought her - [Can you afford NOT to have a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/can-you-afford-not-to-have-a-va/) - It's interesting seeing posts on social media from time to time, asking for an 'affordable VA'. The operative word being 'affordable'. And this can mean many things, depending on where you live, what currency you work with, and what you're currently earning yourself and so on. It's really quite relative, isn't it? What people really - [Just because I provide admin support...](https://www.vadirectory.net/just-because-i-provide-admin-support/) - doesn't automatically make me an employee. So many clients out there assume that because Virtual Assistants provide administrative and other office based support, that makes them an employee. It doesn't. Even some accountants are advising this is the case. At least here in Australia. So important for you, whether you're a VA or a client, - [My first website](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-first-website/) - I created my very first website in April 1996 with MicroSoft Publisher. The Internet in the business world was very new and I was keen to be a part of it. It was a single page, with some MS Clipart and my contact details and list of services. But later that year I began adding - [Babyboomers started the VA industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/babyboomers-started-va-industry/) - It's amazing what you read out there about the Virtual Assistant industry and assumptions about how it got started. Some even thinking it started with digital products like Siri, but I want you to know that the industry started back in the mid 1990s and was started by...... Babyboomers. Yes, Babyboomers! People who were born - [Working at home not always good...](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-at-home-not-always-good/) - Recently my husband was chatting to someone who has been working at home for the past year or so now. At first it was exciting for them and they were very focused on what they were doing. But, more recently, they're finding it hard, can't focus, not feeling productive and feeling very alone. They're losing - [The Cost of Doing Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-cost-of-doing-business/) - I don't know about you, but when I started my business almost 25 years ago, I expected to have to pay out for things to get started. Things such as: equipment, furniture, software, business registration, business name registration, printed business cards and stationery, industry association memberships, advertising and so the list goes on. The old - [Don't put all your eggs in one basket!](https://www.vadirectory.net/dont-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 - [Usernames in social media](https://www.vadirectory.net/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 - [Who sets the rate?](https://www.vadirectory.net/who-sets-the-rate/) - Many 'trades' set their own rates, although some might be guided by industry requirements and expectations. Solicitors, bookkeepers, accountants, business coaches, plumbers, painters, mechanics, and so the list goes on. So, why then, do many of the public feel they can tell Virtual Assistants how much they should be charging? I've heard many VAs talk - [Two accounts on Facebook?](https://www.vadirectory.net/two-accounts-on-facebook/) - I get amazed that people don't check into things like Terms of Service instead of making assumptions or taking the advice of others who probably don't know either. I want to set the record straight. You can only have ONE account on Facebook. Further, that account has to be in your real name - see - [How I use LinkedIn](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-i-use-linkedin/) - How often are you in LinkedIn? I'm logged in every day. I have multiple tabs saved as my 'home pages' and LinkedIn is one of them. So I'm prompted to be there every day, checking for messages, invitations and articles and posts of interest. LinkedIn is a great networking tool, if you use it as - [Being a Virtual Assistant means you are a business owner](https://www.vadirectory.net/being-a-virtual-assistant-means-you-are-a-business-owner/) - This post is a bit of a rant, but I see so many misnomers on discussion groups about people wanting to become a VA but not put in the commitment it requires. Below is a recent post I made. I want to clear something up. There's a fallacy that it costs nothing to become a - [The History of the Internet and the VA Industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-history-of-the-internet-and-the-va-industry/) - Discussions I saw recently revolved around how old the VA Industry is and how long the internet has been around. While the internet was 'invented' in 1983, it didn't actually become available for world wide use till 1991 and the VA industry was birthed just 4-5 years later. Here's some info about the Internet: On - [Facts about the VA Industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/facts-about-the-va-industry/) - I recently read an article about the 5 challenges of a business hiring a VA. What it assumed was that when people are seeking offshore VAs, they want full time VAs from the Philippines. Not so, I'm in Australia, but if I'm working for a client in the UK, USA or another country, then I - [The things that VAs do](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-things-that-vas-do/) - Recently I asked many VAs (hundreds) via some VA forums, what did they used to do before becoming a VA? And then a day or two later, I asked the same VAs, what do they do now. Amazingly, or perhaps not really that amazing, many were providing services that related to their past roles before - [VA Certified - or Certificate?](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-certified-or-certificate/) - There's a discussion going on amongst the 'senior' VA members of our industry currently. We're concerned about the number of new VA courses popping up claiming to be 'certified'. It's important for you all to know that there is no industry standard (as yet) and therefore there is no industry certification. Some of the VA - [Creating a website](https://www.vadirectory.net/creating-a-website/) - I see so many discussions on different VA and other business forums about how to create a website, what program or service to use, etc, etc. I've put together my own thoughts on this, based on my own personal experience of having worked with websites for many years. To give you my background - I - [Is self dialogue holding you back?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-self-dialgoue-holding-you-back/) - Chatting with a new VA on a forum this week she expressed the need to find a mentor to help her with her business. When I asked her why she felt this need, she said she needed to get over her self-dialogue - presumably this dialogue was undermining her self-esteem. I suggested that there might - [Can't find the right VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/cant-find-the-right-va/) - Perhaps it's not the VAs that are the problem... recently I became aware of a 'serial' client seeking yet another VA to support them in their business. I sighed. It meant they had yet lost another VA for support to their business. This has been an ongoing issue for this client for some time. I - [Struggling to find clients?](https://www.vadirectory.net/struggling-to-find-clients/) - This post applies to anyone in business, not just Virtual Assistants. But it is advice that I give to new VAs who are seeking to grow their client base for their businesses. One such VA posted recently on a Facebook group that she was struggling to find clients who were as serious about business as - [Are you earning less than the average wage?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-earning-less-than-the-average-wage/) - As a VA you should have some idea of what your minimum base rate should be per hour. Whether you're doing retainers, packages, or just hourly, it all boils down to working out what the hourly figure would be to get started in your work. Remember that although you don't have to commute to work, - [Are you making things too difficult for yourself?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-making-things-too-difficult-for-yourself/) - Reading different posts in VA forums I often find that new VAs are thinking too much and making things difficult for themselves. What do I mean by this? Their online presence, for example. You definitely need an online presence. In the early days people won't be able to Google and find you, but they will - [Is your VA business a hobby or a true business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-your-va-business-a-hobby-or-a-true-business/) - Today, I want you to think about whether your VA business is a hobby or a true business? By that I mean, are you just dabbling on the side, or are you taking what you're doing very seriously? The reason why I ask this is I see so many VAs in different forums doing things - [One client is never enough](https://www.vadirectory.net/one-client-is-never-enough/) - If you're in business, and not in a job, then having only one client is never enough. A recent post on a VA forum showed that a VA lost a client she had and was desperate to replace them as her income was gone. Here is my response to her. Unfortunately this is a lesson - [Using LinkedIn for your mailing list](https://www.vadirectory.net/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 - [Do you need a VA or an employee?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-need-a-va-or-an-employee/) - Important to understand the difference. I saw a post recently, on a business Facebook group, where a member posted a request for what she needed and outlined that the role would be 20-30 hours a week and needing to be available during particular hours EST plus that it would be a competitive 'wage'. Immediately, I - [Anniversary Giveaway 8](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-giveaway-8/) - Getting down to the second last now! My anniversary is tomorrow! Today, if you subscribe via the image below (choose the free option), two people will be selected for 12 months' membership at the premium level for VA Directory. - [Anniversary Giveaway Final](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-giveaway-final/) - Today is the last day of my business anniversary giveaways. It's also the day of my 24th anniversary in business. So many people have been involved in my business, either directly or indirectly, over the past 24 years. My husband and daughters at the forefront of that list. Without their support and encouragement, and - [Winners for my Anniversary Celebration](https://www.vadirectory.net/winners-for-my-anniversary-celebration/) - In case you've missed the announcements, here are the winners for the prizes being given away recently. eBooks by Jinny Coyle - won by Robynne Shields (Aust) Memberships for a year (3 altogether) - Laura Darkstar (USA), Sharon Baillie (Aust) and Justine Sandry (Aust) Book 'Brand Engagement' by Wendy McWilliams - Phoebe Goodson (USA) Book - [What AVAC 2018 has done for me](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-avac-2018-has-done-for-me/) - Well, another Australian VA Conference is over. Our 9th annual one. That makes next year the 10th annual AVAC and it will be held in March in Melbourne - where it all began! So make sure you add the dates 15-16 March 2019 in your diaries and PLAN TO BE THERE! Honestly, the two days - [Anniversary Giveaways 6 & 7](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-giveaway-6/) - Wow! It's been wonderful to see so many people registering for these daily giveaways! Make sure you read the comments in past posts to see who the lucky winners are for each day. Only a few more days to go. For the next two days, there will be a draw coming from VANetworking.com. So - [Anniversary Giveaway 1](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-giveway-1/) - Our first giveway for my business anniversary is donated by Jinny Coyle with a fantastic lineup of ebooks, designed to help you with your business. While she does mention 'VAs' I believe that these tools would be suitable for anyone in business and worth signing up for. Chris will choose one of the lucky - [Anniversary Giveaway 5](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-giveaway-5/) - Day 5 of our business anniversary giveaway! Are you a VA who would like to learn more about running your business? Would you like to hear from others who have already trodden the path you're on? Today some lucky subscriber will win a free ticket to the Online International Virtual Assistants Convention (OIVAC) being - [Anniversary Giveaway 4](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-giveaway-4/) - Day 4 of our business anniversary giveaway! Have you always wanted to write a book but wasn't sure how to start or what to do? Natasa Denman runs workshops showing you just how to do that and I have a copy of this book to give to the lucky prizedraw winner for today. If - [Anniversary Giveaway 3](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-giveaway-3/) - Day 3 of our business anniversary giveaway! Are you struggling to get your brand out there? How are you with Public Relations for your business? Today some lucky subscriber will receive a copy of the book Brand Engagement by Wendy McWilliams. I worked with Wendy some time ago and she has got some really - [Anniversary Giveaway 2](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-giveaway-2/) - Today is the second day for the business anniversary giveaway. Today, if you are aspiring to become a Virtual Assistant and would like to benefit from being a member of my VAD network, all you need to do is subscribe as a free member at the link below. One of you will be drawn - [It's my anniversary so let's celebrate!](https://www.vadirectory.net/its-my-anniversary-so-lets-celebrate/) - My 24th business anniversary is coming up on the 24th of this month. This year I've decided to offer a number of gifts to you, my faithful readers, clients, colleagues and friends. Each day leading up to the 24th, there will be a giveaway but you will need to register to be eligible for - [Creating websites for new VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/creating-websites-for-new-vas/) - Frequently I see new VAs seeking advice about creating a website for their business and what should be included. I thought I'd share a post on this which I'm happy to have shared with others. First off, they often ask if they need a website if they have a Facebook Page and I say 'yes, - [Are you a brand new VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-a-brand-new-va/) - I sometimes see, in different discussion groups, new VAs announce they have their first client and then panic, because they don't have their rates sorted out, or a contract they can give out if they're working with one. Is this you? In some VA groups, in Facebook, or elsewhere, you may find they have a - [Mature aged but not ready to retire?](https://www.vadirectory.net/mature-aged-but-not-ready-to-retire/) - My husband and I were having a discussion the other day. It was about retirement and the fact that someone we knew hadn't been able to retire because of a financial challenge that had taken place. We felt that was a shame and it probably came because of some bad financial advice. We discussed others - [New affiliate program now set up!](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-affiliate-program-now-set-up/) - Some of you will remember that I asked many months ago about affiliate programs? I badly needed to find a new one as my old one was abused by fraudsters about 4 years ago. Took me sometime to realise I really needed to get it happening again. Well, finally, I bit the bullet and narrowed - [MailChimp account hacked](https://www.vadirectory.net/mailchimp-account-hacked/) - This happened to a client of mine late last year and it was a challenging thing to get sorted and MailChimp people were wonderful, helping us through this. What happened? Someone accessed her account, uploaded over a million addresses and started to send out phishing email saying that payment was due on an invoice and - [Changing address challenges](https://www.vadirectory.net/changing-address-challenges/) - Last year I elected to shift my PO Box to a new Post Office set up near home, just 2 or 3 mins' drive. Not far away at all. The people there were friendly, unlike the previous PO I'd been with and there was easy and convenient parking. As it was a general store I - [Working out rates right for you](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-out-rates-right-for-you/) - This is a topic that is discussed often, at every single VA forum/group that I belong to. But it's not confined just to the VA industry, but also other industries. A business group I belong to has a member with a fairly new business and they had the same quandary - working out rates that - [You do NOT have permission...](https://www.vadirectory.net/you-do-not-have-permission/) - I'm amazed at how many people do not read the User agreement and rules for LinkedIn. Regularly I get added to people's email lists because we're connected at LinkedIn. Come on people! If I want to be on your list I will subscribe - you don't need to add me. What don't you get about - [Is being a work at home mum what you thought?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-being-a-work-at-home-mum-what-you-thought/) - This is a question that was asked at a forum I belong to recently. The asker wanted to know what was the biggest adjustment members had to make? I thought back to when my own children were at home and shared with them, the same that I'm sharing with you now. My girls are now - [How do I find my niche?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-i-find-my-niche/) - This is a question I see from time to time in VA forums from new VAs struggling to work out what they should be offering and how to attract clients. Personally, sometimes I think the focus on 'niches' gets in the way of people starting up their businesses and here are my thoughts. Can I - [Virtual Assistant Industry 21 years old](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-industry-21-years-old/) - Did you know that the Virtual Assistant industry, here in Australia, is now 21 years old? It would be safe to say that it's probably the same worldwide too. For my own part, I started my business in 1994 and then began a network in 1996 - originally known as The International Home-based Secretaries Network, - [Working out rates as a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-out-rates-as-a-va/) - This is a discussion I see at my own and other VA forums - VAs wanting to know how much others charge so they can work out a rate for themselves. However, it's not as easy as that. Each individual VA has experiences, skill sets and different locations of living, which also come into the - [Looking after self](https://www.vadirectory.net/looking-after-self/) - As VAs it is ingrained into many of us to focus on our clients and get their work done. Sometimes to the detriment of our own health. I know I've been guilty of that myself. "I just have to get this done first...", "I can't leave the office because this client might be emailing me - [VA Story: Glynis Moland](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-story-glynis-moland/) - Another in our series on VA Stories. My name is Glynis Moland and I’ve been a VA for the past 8 years. My businesses are Secretarial Service of WA and Diamond Planning. I do not work from home but I have an office in a beautiful old mall called London Court based in the heart - [Calling all NFPs](https://www.vadirectory.net/calling-all-nfps/) - NFPs or Not-for-Profits are usually run by a group of volunteers who take on the role of committee members with an executive: President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary as well as a number of general committee members. Last time I looked at an Association Directory there were over 800,000 such groups here in Australia alone. - [Reasons for engaging an Australian VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/reasons-for-engaging-an-australian-va/) - This post is directed at the Australian business community, but if you're in another country, then simply insert your own country where relevant. I get asked from time to time, why should someone engage the services of an Australian VA instead of looking offshore? Those answers, to me, are quite straightforward and cover important things - [VA Story - Gai Hook](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-story-gai-hook/) - My story with ACS goes back to 2009 I believe Kathie? It all seems so long ago now but being part of the VA Directory in conjunction with face to face networking definitely set me on my way to building my own business. I had been managing sales teams since the 70’s for corporate, government - [Motivation to get the work done](https://www.vadirectory.net/motivation-to-get-the-work-done/) - I saw a VA post on a forum that she's struggling to get motivated because it was such a lovely day outside and she wanted to know how others coped. She'd mentioned the word 'job' too, so I thought I'd give her my thoughts and what I do. The answer follows. Please note - this - [VA Story - Lyn Prowse-Bishop](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-story-lyn-prowse-bishop/) - I began over 16 years ago when I discovered there was little likelihood of getting a full time daycare place for my baby on the way. I was on maternity leave from my full time job and had to get back to work six months early for financial reasons. I put together a proposal to - [How much does a VA cost?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-much-does-a-va-cost/) - "How much does a VA cost* and is there normally a minimum number of hours? E.g. could you get someone to do an hour every now and then / as you can afford it?" This was asked at a forum I participate in recently and it is a common question. I thought I'd share my - [Mature age and have good admin skills?](https://www.vadirectory.net/mature-age-and-have-good-admin-skills/) - While the Virtual Assistant industry may sound like it's one for 'younger' people the reality is that those who are of a mature age with good administrative skills are well placed to be a Virtual Assistant. Perhaps you've been made redundant, had to leave your job due to ill-health, or you have elderly parents or - [Local VA or offshore?](https://www.vadirectory.net/local-va-or-offshore/) - I thought I'd share on this topic here. A few years ago I wrote an article about outsourcing and offshoring and the fact that these are two different things although they can be mingled too. Outsourcing means to engage someone outside of your business to provide services to support you. This could mean someone next - [Being a VA is not a fill-in role](https://www.vadirectory.net/being-a-va-is-not-a-fill-in-role/) - It both amazes me and annoys me that people think they can become a VA while studying at Uni, or just as a fill in till something else comes along. I don't know about you, but in my way of thinking, a VA needs to have a good amount of past experience behind them to - [Don't leave building your business till it's urgent](https://www.vadirectory.net/dont-leave-building-your-business-till-its-urgent/) - While some people achieve great things at the last minute, the majority fail because of lack of preparation. I watch and participate in a lot of discussions in the VA industry and periodically see people posting their particular predicament and why it's urgent that they have to get a client... now! Trouble is, they're asking - [Spamming is not on!](https://www.vadirectory.net/spamming-is-not-on/) - I am getting so fed up with Australian businesses sending commercial email that is purely spam. This message is for all VAs, irrespective of where you are located around the world. If you are engaged to send out email on behalf of clients make sure you ask them about their lists and how they came - [VA Story: Janet Camilleri](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-story-janet-camilleri/) - I have another VA story for you, this time from Janet Camilleri. Here are her words. Three years ago, completely out of the blue, my government position was made redundant. I was devastated. Although I wasn't totally happy in my job, it was local, I'd been there for many years, and working just 4 days - [Are you getting your full member benefits?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-getting-your-full-member-benefits/) - Reading a discussion on a VA forum recently, a VA queried whether it was worth being a member of a particular VA network and the questions they asked indicated they weren't fully aware of what was available to them with that particular network. Several gave suggestions and below is my answer. Any business group or - [Looking for VA work?](https://www.vadirectory.net/looking-for-va-work/) - If you are, you'll be doing the same things many others do - look for networks, directories, forums, groups and associations you can join in order to get work by being introduced to clients through various methods and/or meet other VAs who outsource or sub-contract work in times of overflow. And even training courses so - [Planning to set up as a VA in the New Year?](https://www.vadirectory.net/planning-to-set-up-as-a-va-in-the-new-year/) - So much to think about, so much to plan. It can be overwhelming, but I want to give you some good news! I would love to help you on your journey of discovery. First of all, have you seen my article linked in the menu on this site 'Become a VA'? Important for you to - [Being a VA is not get-rich-quick](https://www.vadirectory.net/being-a-va-is-not-get-rich-quick/) - As anyone who's been in business for sometime would know, setting up a business and building a good client base takes considerable time. It would be rare to make a full-time income in the first year in business, let alone a profit - at least in traditional business. However, even in building a Virtual Assistant - [I'm a Virtual Assistant and I don't work for free](https://www.vadirectory.net/im-a-virtual-assistant-and-i-dont-work-for-free/) - Ever been asked to work for free? I'm sure you have but if not, it will happen... sometime. Many people do not value the skills and abilities that VAs have. Yes, we've been to school, many have gone on to college or Uni, or have even done courses in their adult years. Many have Certificates, - [How many clients should I have?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-many-clients-should-i-have/) - Variations of this question often arise at VA forums. Stories about how many each can manage, how many hours a client wants or demands, offering packages with retainer hours, clients wanting a VA totally to themselves, etc. Many stories, many discussions. Virtual Assistants are independent business owner/operators and, therefore, need to be able to service - [Showcasing your work](https://www.vadirectory.net/showcasing-your-work/) - Do you create examples of your work if you don't have a portfolio in the services you provide? For some that's relatively easy, e.g. graphic designer, web designer, photographer, etc. But what about if you provide other services as a VA? Why do I ask this? Because, this morning I had a client request - [Why I'm an advocate for face-to-face networking](https://www.vadirectory.net/why-im-an-advocate-for-face-to-face-networking/) - Those who know me, will know I frequently promote that it's important to network on a face-to-face business but perhaps I've never fully out lined the reasons why. Two are meeting potential clients and also finding the resources you need for your own business. Firstly, let me tell you I've built a large part of - [Things that VAs don't do](https://www.vadirectory.net/things-that-vas-dont-do/) - It may come as a shock to you but Virtual Assistants (VAs) don't do everything! Despite what you read out there. Take it from someone who works inside the industry and has done so for over 20 years. VAs don't do everything individually, but we do a lot of things collectively. Originating from the administrative/secretarial - [What's in a name?](https://www.vadirectory.net/whats-in-a-name-3/) - We often see discussion in the VA forums about what to call ourselves when operating in the Virtual Assistant Industry. Many do call themselves VAs whereas others like to use BPO (Business Professional Operator (or similar)), and other terms. Some don't want to use the term 'virtual assistant' as the public get confused about what - [Do the locals know you exist?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-the-locals-know-you-exist/) - I see many (new) VAs asking on different VA forums how they can find clients, or if anyone can give them work. Often, when asking questions about what they've done, they've got their office set up, created a Facebook page, set up a website or some kind of web presence, created a LinkedIn profile but - [Need more work?](https://www.vadirectory.net/need-more-work/) - I belong to a number of VA groups, as I'm sure many of VAs do too. One of the things that saddens me is seeing (desperate) posts from some almost begging for work from other VAs. Usually it means something has happened in their life and now suddenly it's become urgent. Often they've been a - [Did you see the article on the weekend?](https://www.vadirectory.net/did-you-see-the-article-on-the-weekend/) - The one that says: Per head of population, Australia leads the world in online work and is the world's biggest supplier of online freelance workers – according to a 2014 report by Elance-oDesk The article was in the business section of The Age on Saturday and was highlighting the VA industry, with a great interview - [Upscaling your LinkedIn Profile](https://www.vadirectory.net/upscaling-your-linkedin-profile/) - I've been on LinkedIn now for just over 10 years and have seen a lot of changes during that time. When I joined there were only 14million members worldwide, now I'm connected to more than that at third level connection. In 2012 I received a certificate stating I was in the top 1% most viewed - [How many clients do you have?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-many-clients-do-you-have/) - This isn't meant to be a competitive question at all, but designed to make you think about how important your business is. If you're running a business then you MUST have more than one client. There are all sorts of reasons why. For example, if that one client didn't want to do business with you - [Are you operating a VA business in Australia?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-operating-a-va-business-in-australia/) - I wrote a post recently about how many clients you might have? There was a reason for this and it's becoming evident from the number of newer VAs I'm speaking to. I say 'newer' as some have been operating for well over a year but they still fit into this category. And what is that? - [Using Hashtags in social media](https://www.vadirectory.net/using-hashtags-in-social-media/) - If you're like me, you spend time exploring different social media tools. Of late, I've been using Instagram so I can understand it, and I must admit, I've gotten quite hooked. However, I've not been using it for my VA business, but rather photography that I do on the side. I’ve seen posts about how - [Quora - most viewed writer](https://www.vadirectory.net/quora-most-viewed-writer/) - Many readers, but not all, will know that I'm passionate about our Virtual Assistant industry and have been a part of it for a long time, over 20 years, in fact. Some months ago I came across a site called Quora and I've been answering questions there about being a VA and how VAs can - [Are you keeping your business a secret?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-keeping-your-business-a-secret/) - I hear from so many who are starting their businesses and at a loss how to find clients. But the formula isn't a hard one and the secret is, you should not be keeping your business a secret! What do I mean by that? I mean 'tell everyone!' Not everyone is going to become a - [Client Beware](https://www.vadirectory.net/client-beware/) - Over the past few weeks I've heard directly from two VAs who are owed a few thousand $$ from clients, and I have heard about other VAs owed by the same clients. This is a very disturbing thing to hear. While we are often on the watch for potential scams, sometimes real clients can be - [How do you set a realistic budget for engaging a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-you-set-a-realistic-budget-for-engaging-a-va/) - I was asked this very question at Quora recently and thought I'd share my answer here. A ‘realistic’ budget can be different for every business owner. But let me put it this way. Have you assessed what it is you’re doing that isn’t earning you money, that you could outsource to a VA? The reality - [New VA seeking business](https://www.vadirectory.net/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 - [What is the most effective way to hire and manage virtual assistants?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-is-the-most-effective-way-to-hire-and-manage-virtual-assistants/) - This is another question asked at Quora and here is the answer I shared there. The most important thing for you to be aware of is that each and every Virtual Assistant (in the western world) are self-employed business owners. Therefore, they have your business at heart because without helping you to become successful it’s - [How difficult is it to find a job or gig as a virtual assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-is-it-difficult-to-find-a-job-or-gig-as-a-virtual-assistant/) - A question I've recently been asked and here is my answer. Hello Lori and welcome to the world of Virtual Assistance. First thing you need to learn is it’s not a ‘job’. It’s a career and your role as a Virtual Assistant is as a business owner. So you’re looking for clients, not jobs. Important - [Never work for free](https://www.vadirectory.net/never-work-for-free/) - Just recently, on a couple of different VA forums, I've come across Virtual Assistants who have worked without charging the client. They had good intentions, wanting the client to become familiar with their work abilities and with the promise of ongoing work, but for different reasons (or perhaps it was really the same reason), the - [It's not going to happen today...](https://www.vadirectory.net/its-not-going-to-happen-today/) - Or even tomorrow, or maybe next week, but it will happen, if you're persistent and consistent. What? might you ask. Your new business and, in particular, I'm talking about new Virtual Assistants. I see so many posting at forums lamenting that they haven't got a client yet, that they're despondent and sad it's not happening - [Do I need a website as a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/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 - [It's all about building relationships](https://www.vadirectory.net/its-all-about-building-relationships/) - You know, it is worth shopping locally - not just online. Yesterday I went down to our local fruit & veg because I knew today was going to be very hot. I go there weekly so the staff are getting to know my face. The owner recently had a birthday so I asked him if - [Is it real or not?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-it-real-or-not/) - I'm talking about those job offers that come via email or perhaps an offer to improve your website. Here's a tip for you: I've been getting a few 'prospecting' emails of late from people wanting to offer me work or a job, or help me with my website. There are things I look for before - [Are your emails getting through?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-your-emails-getting-through/) - Email is not 100% proof and probably never will be. So why do people just assume that all their emails are getting through? Or that they're receiving everything they should? It really hurts when you miss an email from a client or potential client and, therefore, totally miss out on a job - because you - [23 years on.........](https://www.vadirectory.net/23-years-on/) - Friday 24th March marks 23 years in business for me. Yes, 23 years! My kids were young and in school when I began and today they're all married and 3 of them have children. They all run businesses at home but none of them do what I do, although most of them did do work - [How do I become a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-i-become-a-va/) - I see this question often at Facebook groups (where I hang out most online) and here is one of my answers: work out what services you want to provide and what your rates will be set up an online presence, through a Facebook page, LinkedIn profile, and a website (if you can manage it) spend - [Site update](https://www.vadirectory.net/site-update/) - We hope you like our new look site. Some updates are happening behind the scenes too. If you have any questions, suggestions or would like to give a testimonial, we'd love to hear about it. This VA Network has been in operation since 1996, the second in the world. We have seen so many changes - [Health & Fitness and Being a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/health-fitness-and-being-a-va/) - Do they mix? Some years ago I wrote about the importance of getting outside and about vitamin D deficiency. And another about the size of our shadows. I probably haven't covered this topic as often as I should. I, more than anyone, know how easy it is to stack on the weight when you're sitting - [14 ways to help your NFP run smoothly](https://www.vadirectory.net/14-ways-to-help-your-nfp/) - Having a good Secretariat help run your daily administrative requirements is a must-have if your NFP is going to move forward. Over the past 20 years I've worked with several NFPs. Some have moved on because they got to a point where they needed a full-time staff member to handle the role, others I handed - [5 Good Reasons Why Your Business Needs a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/5-good-reasons-why-you-need-a-va/) - At some stage business owners start to weigh up what kind of support they need in their businesses. Should they be hiring an assistant or should they look at getting virtual support? I'd like to share with you 5 reasons why Virtual Assistants should be the answer to that question. During the course of operating - [The day I stop learning is the day I die](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-day-i-stop-learning-is-the-day-i-die/) - "The day I stop learning is the day I die". Dorothy Brimble My grandmother told me this when I was just 14 years old. No idea what we were talking about at the time, but she was a lady that taught herself a new word from the dictionary regularly through her life, did crosswords, hand - [New things happening!](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-things-happening/) - I've been going through a lot of new things of late. And have discarded old things. After 15 years with BNI, I left late last year. I was in need of something new. I felt like I'd learnt all I could and was looking for more, although I wasn't sure what. A few months earlier - [The Value of a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-value-of-a-virtual-assistant/) - Recently there was a discussion on a business group by a person who wanted to outsource work but was complaining that they had not been able to find anyone who could do what they wanted. Basically they wanted someone to be able to replace them - think like them, do what they wanted without their - [What platform should you build your website?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-platform-should-you-build-your-website/) - One of the things I do as a VA is manage websites for clients and I've built many too. I started to do this out of necessity for myself back in 1996 when it was hard to find a web designer and I've learnt along the way. Having transitioned from MS Publisher (yes, seriously!), to - [How to get past the no. 1 mistake VAs make](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-to-get-past-the-no-1-mistake-vas-make/) - I wrote recently about the no. 1 mistake VAs make and it was good to see the comments coming in. I thought I'd follow up with things that new (and existing) VAs can do to help shift that employee mindset. Now, I'm not by any means trying to belittle employees and thank you Deb M - [How to get started as a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-to-get-started-as-a-virtual-assistant/) - If you've been a Virtual Assistant for awhile, you're probably like me, and get many approaches from those who want to be a VA but have no idea where to start. Often they will ask if you have work you can pass on to them. I had someone recently contact me after seeing me on - [Virtual Assistants and Digital Transcription](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistants-and-digital-transcription/) - Digital transcription is a popular choice of service provision for many Virtual Assistants and when new VAs join the industry they often see many of these jobs being promoted via the various VA networks. They're quick to jump on board to offer this as a service too. However, fast and accurate typing isn't the only - [Should a new VA get training?](https://www.vadirectory.net/should-a-new-va-get-training/) - This is a question asked at a VA forum recently. I feel it really depends on the individual. You may be well experienced at providing the service you wish to provide (transcription, data entry, word-processing, etc) but what about actually being a business operator? It may well depend on what the course has to offer. - [Strange happenings at LinkedIn](https://www.vadirectory.net/strange-happenings-at-linkedin/) - Invitations I never sent. Are you getting acceptances from people for invitations you haven't sent at LinkedIn? I've had the same thing happen. These are for people I do not know personally and would not be in any address contact list that I own. They are genuine in that I can go to LinkedIn and - [Are you an Australian Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-an-australian-virtual-assistant/) - If you are, there are two sites you need to be aware of. Actually three. To keep informed of events, activities, meetups, and things that relate to our industry specifically to our country, then the following sites may be of interest to you. Make sure you subscribe, register or sign up to keep informed. Australian - [Being friends with the client](https://www.vadirectory.net/being-friends-with-the-client/) - A couple of my VA team members have contacted me recently about past clients and shared some insights with me and their experiences. We all thought that this might make a good topic. It's probably something you don't think of when you're new in business and I'm sure it's probably something that has happened to - [AVAA Members Breakfast at the Office* Show](https://www.vadirectory.net/avaa-members-breakfast-at-the-office-show/) - You are invited to attend a special AVAA Members Breakfast at the office* Show. Time: 8:30am – 9.30am Date: Thursday 17 October, 2013 Venue:Interactive Demo Theatre, office* Show – Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre At the breakfast, Kathie Thomas, President of the Australian Virtual Assistants Association, will introduce the topic of what a Virtual Assistant is and - [When the client search is on](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-the-client-search-is-on/) - When we are new in business, or business is slow, the client search takes place. Sometimes it's hard to know where to look, what to do, who to contact, in order to secure clients quickly. After all we're in business to make money and to do that we need clients. Where do they come from? - [Is this job a scam?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-this-job-a-scam/) - This is something I see posted on the VA forums from time to time and it amazes me that some cannot see common sense with the jobs that are offered. If it makes you feel uncomfortable, unsure, uneasy, then there is a good reason for it. If the job requires you to handle the client's - [Will you be attending office show this week in Sydney?](https://www.vadirectory.net/will-you-be-attending-office-show-this-week-in-sydney/) - You may, or may not, be aware that I will be presenting at the OfficeShow this coming week in Sydney at the exhibition centre. Below is a post from the AVAA website with the details. If you would like to attend the morning tea please email me as soon as possible so I can add - [Video clip about how a Virtual Assistant can help a business client](https://www.vadirectory.net/video-clip-about-how-a-virtual-assistant-can-help-a-business-client/) - I've taken the plunge and had a video created for my website. I'd held off for quite awhile. I'm not a fan of videos for a number of reasons: I don't like those that start as soon as you visit a site. I don't like how-to sites that only produce videos and not text instructions - [New milestone pending!](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-milestone-pending/) - As my regular readers will know, I've been in this industry for quite some time. In fact, my 20th anniversary in business will be in March 2014. Not that far away. It was in April 1996 that I began the network, initially for home-based secretaries, and then we changed our titles to Virtual Assistants as - [Why VAs don't work fulltime for their clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/why-vas-dont-work-fulltime-for-their-clients/) - With the industry expanding quickly, many coming on board as VAs, and new clients now looking for a VA or VAs to support them, I thought it might be a good time to explain why VAs don't work full time for one client. There are several reasons and here are some of them: If a - [Are you coming to AVAC in 2014?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-coming-to-avac-in-2014/) - In case you haven't yet caught up with the news, the 5th annual Australian Virtual Assistants Conference (AVAC) is being held in March 2014 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre (BCEC). We have our speakers in place now and you can view them on the site. A really great lineup with some really great - [Business profile or page?](https://www.vadirectory.net/business-profile-or-page/) - That is the question! However, if you are a business who has set up a profile at Facebook, rather than a page, you are in danger of having it shut down! How do you know the difference? The quickest way to tell is whether people have to click on 'add friend' to be connected to - [Christmas cards for your clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/christmas-cards-for-your-clients/) - Do you send out cards for your clients? Or even to your clients. Things get busy this time of year and Christmas card sending can be quite a time hungry exercise. Over the past 3 or 4 years I've been using Send Out Cards, which definitely saves me time and I don't have to leave - [Yahoo has taken over my Firefox search](https://www.vadirectory.net/yahoo-has-taken-over-my-firefox-search/) - If you have searched and found this post, then it may well be that you're looking for the answer to this annoying problem. My favourite search engine is Google. That's the one I want to use. But for some reason, some software programs have included yahoo search in their installation files. That's all well and - [Become a Virtual Assistant for 2014](https://www.vadirectory.net/become-a-va-for-2014/) - It's that time of year again when people take stock of what's transpired for the past almost twelve months and reflect on what could have been versus on what has been. Has it been a good year for you? Did you set goals and achieve them? Did you set goals and not achieve them? Perhaps - [Celebrating 20 years in business March 2014](https://www.vadirectory.net/celebrating-20-years-business/) - It's almost here and I can barely believe it. Where have all those years gone? I do remember the excitement and the nervousness of branching out on my own and leaving the stability and safety of a government job back in 1993. Family and work events had been leading me to this point... where I - [Professional development for Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/professional-development-virtual-assistants/) - When you are in business and self-employed, you no longer have the luxury of an employer organising professional development and footing the bill. Consequently, many self-employed business owner/operators tend to forgo this very important part of their business ownership. Making sure you keep up with technology and business trends is very important to keep ahead - [Can your prospective clients contact you?](https://www.vadirectory.net/can-prospective-clients-contact/) - Have you viewed your business card and website with your prospective clients' eyes lately? Over the past year I've noticed a trend in business cards having minimal details. Websites are often the same. A name, perhaps a business name, an email address (or, on their website a contact form) and a mobile phone number. That's - [Do you have a website?](https://www.vadirectory.net/website/) - Getting a website created, or creating one for yourself, can be a daunting prospect. When you're setting up business there are so many things to think about, plan and pay out for, that often the website gets put aside for 'later on'. The reality is that people need to be able to find you online. - [20 new Virtual Assistant members at a special price!](https://www.vadirectory.net/20-new-virtual-assistant-members-special-price/) - Well, as you may know by now, this year marks 20 years in business for me. I've seen a real lot of growth, both in technology and in our industry. So many 'new' things have been developed and become every day activities or items we use regularly. Things like the Internet, mobile phones, digital TV, - [What do I need to do to get started?](https://www.vadirectory.net/need-get-started/) - On a VA forum the other day I read a question from a new member there, wanting to know how to get started and if she had to get any licenses or permits or anything? She is located in Los Angeles. This is my answer to her: Members here are from many countries so the - [Should new VAs join an agency or go it alone?](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-vas-join-agency-go-alone/) - That was the question at a forum recently. The writer also asked about certifications and credentials. My answer is below. Yes, the VA industry is growing and would you believe it's been around since 1996? It first started in the US and Australia and then grew beyond there. A whole lot of other countries have - [Can't decide if you should go to the VA Conference?](https://www.vadirectory.net/cant-decide-go-va-conference/) - Let me use the words of a colleague and long-term VA, Nina Feldman, who resides in the US. She was referring to IVAA's VA Convention but her words also very much relate to any Virtual Assistant event that will be beneficial to the growth of your business. Make no mistake about that! Read on... "I - [Worried about engaging an Aussie VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/worried-engaging-aussie-va/) - A business forum I belong to online had someone asking about engaging a VA in an Asian country. When they were queried about engaging someone in Australia instead (as that is where they live) they came back with the following comment: I have been told that legally if you contract a subcontractor in Australia on - [Becoming a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/becoming-va/) - I recently received an email from a young lady looking to start her own VA business but concerned that there might be too many out there for her to make a living as a VA. She wanted to know my thoughts. This is my response to her: I can appreciate the concern or fear that - [Speed track your VA business!](https://www.vadirectory.net/speed-track-va-business/) - Are you thinking about setting up a Virtual Assistant business and don't know where to start? So much to look at, learn, read and do. I know the feeling of being overwhelmed at the beginning, not sure what to do first or who to ask, or where to find clients. It seems almost endless but - [Should I be receiving mail on behalf of a client?](https://www.vadirectory.net/receiving-mail-behalf-client/) - Periodically requests might come through from a prospective client to receive mail on their behalf, and forward it on, as instructed, because they're out of the country. I believe this request could be fraught with problems, and possibly danger, and is one that should be handled with the utmost care and a lot of thought. - [Who should you be asking?](https://www.vadirectory.net/asking/) - Sometimes on the VA forums I see people asking questions that really should be directed to others more equipped and qualified to answer those questions. For example, should I have a business license? Or, if in Australia, should I be registered for an ABN or GST? While people on forums can answer these questions, if - [Combining passion and work](https://www.vadirectory.net/combining-passion-work/) - Those who have known me for awhile know that I have a passion for nature and photography, and over recent years, have been building up a photography website and tons of photos during my free time. Applying the skills I've learnt in my VA business, I've been able to do a number of things such - [How often should you follow up?](https://www.vadirectory.net/often-follow/) - I get new VAs asking this question periodically when they've responded to a client request for work to be done, but they hear nothing from the client. When clients contact us to get work done, it's often at the last moment, or when things have gotten crucial for them and they need it done yesterday. - [Why I like being in BNI](https://www.vadirectory.net/like-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 - [Bring your corporate skills home](https://www.vadirectory.net/bring-corporate-skills-home/) - There are many women (and some men) who are keen to work at home these days, so that they can either start a family, or be there for the family they already have. For some, it's caring for elderly parents, or perhaps a spouse who is ill. Whatever the reason, there are many seeking ways - [Do you know your why?](https://www.vadirectory.net/know/) - This morning I had a session with a new coach. I say 'new' because she's new to me, but she's been doing what she does for some years. Younger than I am but a very inspirational lady, who founded a school in Zimbabwe and coaches other women about their roles in life and their businesses. - [Blog writing challenge](https://www.vadirectory.net/blog-writing-challenge/) - I was invited to participate in a writing blog challenge - because I love to write! Below are the questions I was asked, with my answers and under that the people I'm tagging to continue this on. And this is all about writing! 1) What am I working on? I’m always working on ideas for - [A day in the life of a senior VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/day-life-senior-va/) - If you're a regular reader of my blog and visitor to my site, you'll know that I run a Virtual Assistant Network and also provide VA Training via a 10 week course delivered by email. Many may think I don't do much else, other than participate on forums and social media, but I thought I'd - [Keeping your values as a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/keeping-values-va/) - “We don’t go running away from our values. We go drifting away, and one day wake up in a place we never meant to be, drifting in a direction we would have never chosen.” John G. Blumberg VA Tip: Sometimes it's easy to let our values drop when a client wants us to do something - [Advice on getting started as a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/advice-getting-started-va/) - On a VA forum recently a new VA was asking for advice on getting started. She'd outlined her experience and then went on to say she didn't want to start her own business but work for someone else, building up enough experience to pick up jobs here and there. My immediate thought was that this - [What is a Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant/) - This question comes to light often these days because so many people (and countries) have variations on what they believe the term 'Virtual Assistant' means. It came about because a business coach named his assistant that title as she worked miles away from him (in the US) and he coined the phrase 'virtual assistant'. The - [How to become a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/become-va/) - How do I become a Virtual Assistant is a question I'm often asked. And so I wrote the article below for the Australian Virtual Assistants Association of Australia (AVAA). Some of the content relates to setting up business in Australia. However, all of the content is suitable for anyone in any country and where Australian - [Home alone](https://www.vadirectory.net/home-alone/) - Sounds like a movie title, doesn't it? :-) When you're working as a Virtual Assistant the reality is that you are working home alone, day in and day out. If you've been in a corporate office for some years you will be used to the social interaction of chatting to others, or just knowing that - [I want to be a VA but...](https://www.vadirectory.net/want-va/) - Saw a post over the weekend of a lady who wanted to become a VA but had very little skills and didn't know what she should specialise in. I don't know about you, but for me that rang warning bells. Here is someone with very little skillset and yet she wants to become a VA. - [Choosing to become a VA at the right time.](https://www.vadirectory.net/choosing-become-va-right-time/) - I had a lady ring me yesterday about becoming a Virtual Assistant. She wanted to know if she could join my network. We talked about what office-based experience she might have and it turned out she had very little and was studying at college currently. She also had a health problem which is why she - [How is your terminology?](https://www.vadirectory.net/terminology/) - Two recent conversations have led to this particular post. One is a web client who had a need for a single web page to be set up for her business. She kept using terminology that made me think she wanted something else, i.e. a landing page, which is usually a call to action, with the - [Getting testimonials as a new VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/getting-testimonials-new-va/) - When you're brand new in business being able to build up a list of things to show prospective clients can be a challenge. If the line of work you're doing requires you to have a portfolio (things to show, e.g. graphic design), or you need a set of testimonials, it's sometimes hard to think outside - [Are you planning to become a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/planning-become-va/) - It's the time of year when people begin to plan what will take place in the new year, change of job, change of pace, start a new business, etc. If you are thinking of becoming a Virtual Assistant, or perhaps have already begun but not sure exactly what you should be doing, then perhaps the - [6th annual Australian VA Conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/6th-annual-australian-va-conference/) - Have you heard the news yet? The 6th annual Australian VA Conference is being held 20-21 March 2015 at Melbourne Docklands. Most of the speakers have now been confirmed, the venue is booked and the conference committee are working behind the scenes to get everything else in place. Full details can be seen at the - [Join Australia's oldest VA Network today!](https://www.vadirectory.net/join-australias-oldest-va-network-today/) - Not only Australia's oldest VA Network, but also the second oldest in the world. Established as a network in April 1996, "A Clayton's Secretary" has witnessed many changes and lots of growth in the Virtual Assistant industry during that time. Until 31st December, we have a special offer for 12 months' membership at the price - [Are you going to AVAC?](https://www.vadirectory.net/going-avac/) - The 6th annual Australian VA Conference will be held at Melbourne Docklands in March 2015. The early bird bookings close very soon. If you're planning to go, why not go visit the AVAC site to get your booking in now! Dates are 20-21 March. All details are on the website. - [NEVER stop building your client base](https://www.vadirectory.net/never-stop-building-client-base/) - I frequently see VAs posting on VA forums that their client is leaving them, cutting hours or doing something else and when questioning further about their situation, it often becomes apparent that they only have one client. You don't have a business when you have one client. What you have is a job, in general - [Learn about your client's industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/learn-clients-industry/) - There is good value in learning as much as you can about the industry/ies your clients work in. If your niche is a particular industry this is even more important. Each industry will have a number of things to help educate people in that industry: newsletters, magazines, trade shows, industry association events and the list - [The importance of Networking online and offline](https://www.vadirectory.net/importance-networking-online-offline/) - I'm a firm believer that networking should be done as much offline as it is done online. I belong to two regular networking groups - one weekly and one monthly, and then go to others periodically too. I find I pick up a lot of referrals this way from people who like to meet who - [My Story](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-story/) - I was chatting to a member of my network today. We'd jointly gone for a meeting to see a potential sponsor for the Australian VA Conference which is being held next month (March 2015) in Melbourne. The owner of the printing business decided to share his story with us and the reasons why he supports - [Do they know how to contact you?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-they-know-how-to-contact-you/) - I'm seeing an increasing trend of people creating brand new websites for their businesses but neglecting to put the most important information on their sites! Namely, how to contact you. Personally I don't like doing business with people who only have a contact form and no other form of contact on their site. Makes me - [Points of Contact](https://www.vadirectory.net/points-of-contact/) - Pull out your business card and have a look and see how many points of contact do you have on your card? One? Two? Three or more? It seems that many feel that because they have an email address or a website, they no longer need to add any further contact information on their business - [How do you know when a client is genuine?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-you-know-when-a-client-is-genuine/) - I got asked this today, but admittedly, I've been asked other times too. While our industry attracts mainly good clients, we do get the occasional one that thinks they can use a VA for their own evil purposes - namely to launder money or trick someone into doing the wrong thing and therefore losing money. - [What is a typical client for a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-is-a-typical-client-for-a-va/) - A question that was asked at a forum I participate in recently. Good question and one that is important for both VAs and clients alike. The answer is, there is no typical client profile. It really depends on what the VA does and offer as to what a typical client might be for that one - [VA Story: Melissa Williscroft](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-story-melissa-williscroft/) - I'm starting a series on VA stories - those VAs who have been around for awhile and how and why they got into the industry. The first is a long-term member of ACS and that is Melissa Williscroft. Melissa has been a member of the ACS Network since 2009. Below she shares her story. Starting - [Do you suffer from Admin Overwhelm?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-suffer-from-admin-overwhelm/) - 'Admin Overwhelm': So many business owners are overwhelmed with the amount of admin and paperwork that needs to be done to keep their businesses running. I regularly chat with other business owners via phone, email, online forums and also face-to-face networking who tell me they are drowning in paperwork and struggling to develop systems to - [Getting a job or getting clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/getting-a-job-or-getting-clients/) - I see the word 'job' mentioned at so many VA forums and also blog posts about the VA industry. And also those who have used VAs to support their businesses the talk is very similar. There seems to be confusion about the role of where the Virtual Assistant sits. And often the new VAs are - [VA Story: Frances Lowe](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-story-frances-lowe/) - This is the second of our series. Frances has been a long term member of our VA network - since 2002. My name is Frances Lowe and I have been a VA for the best part of 15 years. Started as a VA in 1998/99 and was working in recruitment. I was working freelance for - [Facebook - profile or page?](https://www.vadirectory.net/facebook-profile-or-page/) - Is your Facebook profile set up in your personal name or your business name? I want to give a warning as two people I know here in Melbourne, Australia, in the past week had their Facebook accounts suspended and they had to prove who they were. One was using a nickname coupled with his real - [Welcome to the dark side!](https://www.vadirectory.net/welcome-to-the-dark-side/) - There is lots written about the benefits of being a Virtual Assistant and particularly of working at home. You read articles, see photos of healthy looking people running on the beach, playing ball with their kids, driving a flashy car, or sitting under a tree with their laptop. The reality is very different - not - [Should I join a network?](https://www.vadirectory.net/should-i-join-a-network/) - There seem to be lots of virtual assistant networks on the web. How do I know which is the right one and whether I should be paying for a membership or not? There are a lot of networks and each has its own culture. Some do charge membership fees and others don't and this is - [History of Virtual Assistant Industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/history-of-virtual-assistant-industry/) - This is an updated excerpt from my book The Home-Grown Secretary You are probably aware that there are several VA networks and lots of VAs globally today so this will help you see that you are about to embark on a career that has a good foothold in the business world already. You may have - [The Email Tamer](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-email-tamer/) - Do you fight a constant battle with incoming email? Would you like to see an almost empty inbox again? Well, here’s something that will help you! In my July newsletter I wanted to outline the merits of using a Filter or Rules Wizard in your email program. Probably the most widely used email program is - [Outsourcing or Offshoring?](https://www.vadirectory.net/outsourcing-or-offshoring/) - There has been a lot of talk and many articles printed about the benefits of Offshoring as opposed to Outsourcing locally. There has also been great debate about whether the cheaper costs of Offshoring are outweighed by the benefits of Outsourcing locally. Within a space of a few short years it has become evident that - [These Are My Thoughts, or TAMT](https://www.vadirectory.net/these-are-my-thoughts-or-tamt/) - One of my team wrote me about a man named "Bill Caudill, an eminent Architect (AIA Gold Medal recipient) who, between 1964 until his death in 1983, put out a regular memo to his people titled "This I Believe" or TIBs. He used to write his thoughts and send them to his management as a - [Maintaining Your Professionalism at Home](https://www.vadirectory.net/maintaining-your-professionalism-at-home/) - How do you do it? How do you cope with family and working at home? I was asked these questions recently at a networking breakfast but it's not the first time I've been asked such questions. Perhaps the answers came naturally to me, perhaps they were instinctive, or maybe they were something instilled in me - [Employee Mentality or Business Owner Thinking?](https://www.vadirectory.net/employee-mentality-or-business-owner-thinking/) - It is often hard, when starting out as a VA to determine what information you should be seeking, whether something can be sourced elsewhere, or whether you should be doing it all on your own? I participate in several VA forums and often see new VAs asking for items that they really should be sorting - [Network, Network, Network!](https://www.vadirectory.net/network-network-network/) - Virtual Assistant Posted: Wed Nov 02, 2005 4:37 pm Post subject: Network, Network, Network -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- There is nothing like networking to give your business a boost. It is a bit like planting a seed, watering it and then watching it take root - it can take a few months before the first nibbles come in, - [Learning on the Job!](https://www.vadirectory.net/learning-on-the-job/) - I was thinking this morning about a recent chat with a client who indicated through their conversation that I should be charging them cheaper because they’re getting me to learn a new system and it would then be something I could do for other people. When I say cheaper – I mean considerably lower than - [110% - Give Your Best - TAMT](https://www.vadirectory.net/110-give-your-best-tamt/) - What does it mean to give 110%, to give of your best? I believe it means taking something further than most people would. I believe it means to give or do as much as you can for the task at hand, and then a little more too. In this day and age of rush, rush, - [Networking - Information and Relationships - TAMT](https://www.vadirectory.net/networking-information-and-relationships-tamt/) - One of the things I love about networking the most is how relationships can develop. Good friends, good information, good business. Developing a business as a VA requires networking both online and offline. It's important to get a good mix of the two. Some are so desperate for the 'virtual' thing to start happening that - [Spirit - Of Adventure & Achievement - TAMT](https://www.vadirectory.net/spirit-of-adventure-achievement-tamt/) - I have a collection of cards that are meant to be topic stimulators in meetings and I find them great for posts to this blog. The topic this week is: Spirit - Of Adventure & Achievement What does Spirit - Of adventure & achievement mean to you? To me it means having the spirit to - [Blogging for the general public - TAMT](https://www.vadirectory.net/blogging-for-the-general-public-tamt/) - I've been learning about Blogs for a couple of months now and joined a chat forum to learn more about it (see http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ezinesandblogs/ if interested in joining). I want to see the Blog I write to be one that will assist those learning about the Virtual Assistant Industry to understand it better, what it is, - [Why Use a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/why-use-a-va/) - Why would you use a Virtual Assistant? Consider the following: 1. You want or need regular or ad-hoc administrative support but don't have suitable office space, a spare desk, a spare computer, the relevant software, or perhaps you just highly value your space and don't want to share it. 2. You can't afford to pay - [Love/Hate Relationship With Quiet Times](https://www.vadirectory.net/lovehate-relationship-with-quiet-times/) - Why is that when things are so hectically busy I long for a quiet time to start that new project or idea and then end up starting it anyway because I can't wait? It often means I'm on my computer till midnight to get it up and running, and then not being able to switch - [Happy New Year for 2006](https://www.vadirectory.net/happy-new-year-for-2006/) - Well, I've spent several (quiet) days exploring the world of blogs and a little the wiser now. I've added more links to the right of this blog and I also welcome those who have recently subscribed - please do let me know if you have anything you'd like to know about being a VA or - [It is the World WIDE Web!](https://www.vadirectory.net/it-is-the-world-wide-web/) - I often have to remind people I converse with via email and chat forums, or perhaps those who write articles that are meant to be read widely, that we are in the WORLD Wide Web and not the Country Wide Web. In fact, I've kind of made it my personal quest so I hope in - [What you think about!](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-you-think-about/) - A member of a VA chat forum mentioned that he was looking forward to going virtual fulltime and hoped it would happen by the end of this year (2006). His comment took me back about 14 or so years ago, to a mentor in my life who was also a doctor in psychosomatic medicine outside - [Sad Week For Our Community](https://www.vadirectory.net/sad-week-for-our-community/) - It was a sad week for the Virtual Assistant community with the passing of one of our very active leaders and participants in the Virtual Assistant industry. That lady was Janet Jordan, who was very well known amongst most of the VA chat forums and to many other aspiring VAs as well. Janet founded a - [Putting an Accent (Emphasis) on Your Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/putting-an-accent-emphasis-on-your-business/) - I read today a newsletter that's just been published online for the VA industry. Had some great information in it - it's obviously tax time in the US! Along with it was a very useful article about how seriously VAs should take their businesses and the survey done in 2004 by the Brenner Information Group. - [Advice For New VA's](https://www.vadirectory.net/advice-for-new-vas/) - Time again on VA forums I see the same request. "I'm just starting my business and want to know how to get clients". They get a number of responses and are often encouraged to read the archives of the forums for further information. I thought sharing via this blog might help those considering a career - [Advice For Clients Seeking To Use A VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/advice-for-clients-seeking-to-use-a-va/) - Each virtual assistant works as an independent contractor in their own business. Some work full-time and some part-time and also in temporary positions. Because they work independently, prices vary amongst VAs, plus they are in many countries around the world, so feel free to shop around. Please understand that until the work is sighted, it - [Putting Your Eggs All In One Basket](https://www.vadirectory.net/putting-your-eggs-all-in-one-basket/) - Discussions via the VA forums get quite interesting and it's good to see really meaty topics take place. Recently one of my team posted a series of questions for other members to answer and it gave real insight into the background of many, their experience, why they started out as VAs, would they ever return - [Silence](https://www.vadirectory.net/silence/) - I may be a bit silent here over the next few weeks. We're taking some leave (you can read about it on our family blog) and unless I have some fantastic thought or a sudden revelation, I'll probably not post here. Much of my writing comes from things that happen during my working day and - [One thing......](https://www.vadirectory.net/one-thing/) - I do have one thing to add here before I go on leave. This morning a new member of one of the VA chat forums I belong to posted a message requesting help on how to attract more work. Unfortunately their post was not very well typed, spelling errors, no caps used, words run together. - [Getting Back Into Things](https://www.vadirectory.net/getting-back-into-things/) - Well, we've been back home for 3 days now but still suffering the jetlag thing and waking up at 2am with our minds busy! Guess it will go away eventually but a little annoying. Although I'd switched off the forum lists I belong to and a few other things I still had a mountain of - [Working Virtual With a Presence](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-virtual-with-a-presence/) - In my field I get requests for help almost every day from those who want to be VAs or those who have been trying to get their businesses going for a while but not getting anywhere. In most cases there are some fundamental things missing in their approach to develop business and two of those - [Your Business and Your Health & Safety](https://www.vadirectory.net/your-business-and-your-health-safety/) - The team and I had a great chat Wednesday. It started because one of the girls was experiencing some pain in her shoulders from constant typing and she was seeking advice on what exercises she should do. The discussion opened up with suggestions on seeing an Osteopath, Chiropractor or Physiotherapist, but then it turned to - [Volunteering Makes Good Sense](https://www.vadirectory.net/volunteering-makes-good-sense/) - Many prospective or new VAs are keen to get as much experience as they can to be eligible for job leads that come along, but how do they get the experience if a client only wants someone with experience? The answer is to volunteer their services! I don't mean give away a lot of your - [Developing a Business Plan For a VA Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/developing-a-business-plan-for-a-va-business/) - Periodically new VAs post help! messages to VA forums looking for this item, or that or advice on how to do something. The advice part is ok but there are some things that they really need to do for themselves, for example researching how much they should charge, or setting up certain templates for regular - [Making Things Add Up In Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/making-things-add-up-in-business/) - One of the topics of discussion via our forum this week has been about required registrations for the Tax Office. Here in Australia we need to register for Australian Business Numbers (ABNs), and also Goods & Services Tax (GST) if earning over a certain amount. I'm sure in other countries there are obligatory requirements for - [Requests for Help](https://www.vadirectory.net/requests-for-help/) - I often get requests for help from those just starting out in our industry. Often they have set up great looking websites, have some brochures ready to give out - they just don't have the clients and don't know where to start. So they ask if I can get them started, or send work their - [Client Case Study #1](https://www.vadirectory.net/client-case-study-1/) - It was suggested to me via a recent comment posted that I should post some Case Studies and I think that an excellent idea - it will help demonstrate to both wanna-be VAs, and prospective clients, just how a client-VA relationship works. So, enter Lorraine, one of my longest-term clients. Lorraine is a Business Coach - [Marketing Your VA Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/marketing-your-va-business/) - I was asked over the weekend by a new VA, the following two questions: 1. How do you know how many potential clients you should market yourself to? In terms of income I would perhaps prefer to have one particular client that I work for on a regular basis and then pick up other work - [An Anniversary Almost Passed By....](https://www.vadirectory.net/an-anniversary-almost-passed-by/) - Today is 24th March. Probably doesn't mean much to most people who read this - unless they have a birthday, anniversary or something else that prompts them to think of this day. For me it's the anniversary of the day I registered my business in Melbourne, Australia - on National Secretaries Day 1994. 12 years - [Client Case Study #2](https://www.vadirectory.net/client-case-study-2/) - I met William a year after I started my business. He found me in the Yellow Pages after the secretarial service he'd been using moved out of the area. William was in his late 60s at the time and still a practising Export Trade Consultant with a government department. He ran his business from his - [Steps for operating a blog](https://www.vadirectory.net/steps-for-operating-a-blog/) - As I often share information about using blogs these days I’ve been asked several times, how do you go about it? So, for the benefit of those who wish to learn, and don’t yet fully understand, here are the steps: 1. Go to www.blogger.com and create a username and password if you don’t already have - [Maintaining Professionalism 24/7](https://www.vadirectory.net/maintaining-professionalism-247/) - I belong to the TrumpU forum and post periodically when a topic pushes a hot button. The latest one was about whether spelling and grammar matters on posts. Below is a response from another member of the forum and my answer follows. I was pleased to get encouraging responses thereafter. RE: Thankyou Mr. Trump for - [Posting on Chat Forums](https://www.vadirectory.net/posting-on-chat-forums/) - I belong to a number of chat forums, some relate to the VA industry, some are other business related, some software, and a few more that are connected to personal interests. What disturbs me the most is that on any of the chat forums that are business related in some way, people continue to post - [Client or Employer?](https://www.vadirectory.net/client-or-employer/) - The team and I were having an interesting discussion yesterday about a job that had been posted via a vacancies list at a well known organisation, and also about approaches by email. There is concern these days about which ones are genuine and which ones are illegal. My response follows: "If it has anything to - [Exciting New Event in May 2006!](https://www.vadirectory.net/exciting-new-event-in-may-2006/) - The Virtual Assistant Industry is coming of age, and with it a celebration of the industry and all that being a part of it entails! If you are a Virtual Assistant, or perhaps planning to be one, or maybe you are wanting to learn more about how the industry can help you in your business, - [Interview On Another Blog](https://www.vadirectory.net/interview-on-another-blog/) - It's always good when another blogger makes reference to what you've been doing and on this occasion, I've been interviewed by Donna Hamer of WealthyOnlineWomen. Why not drop over to her blog and see what she has to say? Like me, Donna is an Australian Woman Blogger and we found each other via another Australian - [Administrative Professionals Day a Holiday?](https://www.vadirectory.net/administrative-professionals-day-a-holiday/) - I knew this day is celebrated the world over, but I didn't know it was actually an official public holiday. Perhaps we need to look at this in Australia too . I've just seen an article that indicates it is actually a national holiday and that the country comes to a standstill. Perhaps, one day - [Jeckyll & Hyde Clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/jeckyll-hyde-clients/) - Periodically home based operators become targets for 'shady' clients, those who seem really nice and genuine, or perhaps helpless, but end up being something completely different. They will start off enquiring about services and will send a test sample of something to be done to see if you can carry out the work adequately. The - [Less Than 24 Hours Away....](https://www.vadirectory.net/less-than-24-hours-away/) - The Online International Virtual Assistants Convention is almost here - the inaugural, the first event! And it's shaping up to be quite an event. Anyone who gets involved on a voluntary basis to help set up a major event, and still run their business (not to mention family) at the same time must surely be - [What Does It Take To Be A VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-does-it-take-to-be-a-va/) - I had an interesting email discussion with a member of my team in the past week. She's trying to decide whether or not to renew her membership or whether to return to the workforce. She's only been a member for just under six months, so not very long. I had to ask her some questions - [Award Nominee!](https://www.vadirectory.net/award-nominee/) - I've been nominated for International Virtual Assistant of Distinction Award through the Online International Virtual Assistant Convention. This is an inaugural award and I know that there will be many leaders, and movers and shakers of the VA industry nominated, so I'll be up against some pretty stiff competition. However, just to be nominated is - [Have You Been Yet?](https://www.vadirectory.net/have-you-been-yet/) - To the Online International Virtual Assistants Convention. There are paid sessions and free sessions so you would be most welcome to come along and visit! Readers of this blog will know by now that I was nominated for an award - I didn't win it but I was given the wonderful honour of being the - [OIVAC - Over until next year!](https://www.vadirectory.net/oivac-over-until-next-year/) - Well the first Online International Virtual Assistants Convention has finished. The booths for the Trade Expo will be open till end June I believe. The seminars, if you registered for them, are available to log into and listen to still - if you didn't get to the presentation at the time it was running. But - [Until Next Year](https://www.vadirectory.net/until-next-year/) - Well, OIVAC was a success and we had a lot of people in attendance - and I've heard from many who really enjoyed themselves. Congratulations to Sharon Williams and Heather Jacobson on their award wins. This was a difficult process as the Steering Committee wanted to distance themselves from the selection process (especially since many - [Attention New VAs!](https://www.vadirectory.net/attention-new-vas/) - I belong to a number of VA chat forums and the common request from new VAs on all the lists, is 'how do I get started?' I encourage you to read through the archives on those forums - it will help give you a foundation to build upon and start putting you on the same - [Client Case Study #3](https://www.vadirectory.net/client-case-study-3/) - This particular client type came via one of my team members in 1997. She'd been offered a role but was unable to take it on and forwarded the details to me. I looked at the job spec and realised that this was something I would love to do and I'd been doing it already in - [When a VA is seeking work](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-a-va-is-seeking-work/) - I periodically get emails from new VAs who are seeking work as a VA. Most of the time they are from countries in which English is not their native language, and they offer to take on my work and do it at a much cheaper rate so that I am still getting paid by my - [Guest Blogger invitation](https://www.vadirectory.net/guest-blogger-invitation/) - I've been invited to be a guest blogger at The Small Business Blog by Stefan Töpfer of Winweb. Stefan and I began conversing just before Christmas 2005 and have met twice since then - once in London and then again in Melbourne a few weeks later. We both just happened to be travelling in the - [Just who is the expert?](https://www.vadirectory.net/just-who-is-the-expert/) - One of the ACS team sent a message yesterday about an advert she saw. This is it: · Work from home listening and typing up lectures · Paid $15 per completed transcription Transcriptionist required to listen to recorded lectures and transcribe lectures in fields of either : 1. medicine OR 2. organic chemistry OR 3.physics - [Industry Forums Are Very Useful](https://www.vadirectory.net/industry-forums-are-very-useful/) - Recently one of the ACS team asked members on our chat forum about online facilities that would allow training via the internet to take place. She had an overseas client who needed training in the database program she was using for them and she was looking for something where the client could see what she - [Do You Have a Newsletter?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-have-a-newsletter/) - If you don't already provide a newsletter to existing and prospective clients, now is as good a time as any to start thinking about it and preparing one. Perhaps you might feel you have nothing to say, or perhaps you don't feel confident in your own writing ability. But don't despair because you can get - [Suitable Times To Call a Client?](https://www.vadirectory.net/suitable-times-to-call-a-client/) - One of the team asked me today a question I'd not thought about before - at least, not in detail. It's one of those things that you tend to develop an unwritten law about - and each person has their own law. She was responding to a job request late in the day and asked - [Why Don't Virtual Assistant Businesses Work?](https://www.vadirectory.net/why-dont-virtual-assistant-businesses-work/) - Interesting title - why would I use it? Well, because I noticed recently that people were Googling this phrase. Additional to that I had an email from a gentleman who was contacting VA businesses trying to get business from them - he wanted to operate as a VA and just couldn't understand why other VAs - [New Look Blog!](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-look-blog/) - I'm still tweaking it, but now have Virtual Assistant - THE Blog housed on my own server, using Wordpress. I've been learning this program for just over a couple of months now and have been able to successfully import this blog from its previous home. Please do update your bookmarks to http://www.vadirectory.net/blog/ for new posts - [Client Request](https://www.vadirectory.net/client-request/) - As probably happens to many VAs (or for that matter, any business operator) whose websites are easily located, I get requests asking me if I would promote something, refer someone, or give work to someone. This morning's request was of the middle agenda and here is what was sent to me: My name is Joe - [Invitation to Virtual DiVAs Group H.U.G. (Help Us Grow)](https://www.vadirectory.net/invitation-to-virtual-divas-group-hug-help-us-grow/) - I recently became a board member for a new group for Virtual Assistants. This group was developed for a very different reason to the existing forums. It is recognised that there is a downside to working at home - and that is the lack of exercise and increased tendency to just snack through the day. - [Virtual Assistant Rates](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-rates/) - When first starting out, one of the things a new VA needs to know is how much to charge for the services they will provide? And it's not always easy trying to work this out. Will they charge too much, will they charge not enough? What are others charging? And so, it's not uncommon to - [New VA Education & Coaching Program now available!](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-va-education-coaching-program-now-available/) - Well, it's here! I've been developing an education and coaching program for virtual assistants over the past few months, well, since before Christmas. It's been on the drawing board for around 3-4 years and has been one of those projects that just kept being put aside. But time moves on and I get many requests - [Client Case Study #4](https://www.vadirectory.net/client-case-study-4/) - Robyn is a well known public speaker in Australia and her topic is Networking. For 2 or 3 years I was privileged to be her virtual assistant as she frequently travelled to my state and needed assistance whilst here. Over time we got to know each other well and I even supported her office when - [Case Study #5](https://www.vadirectory.net/case-study-5/) - Cheryl is an artist, mainly oils and water paints, but does silks scarves and other items too. Her passion is cats and most of her paintings has a cat somewhere in the picture, and often she is too, depicted as a little girl with long blonde hair. Her father is the second case study I - [Networking - a life skill](https://www.vadirectory.net/networking-a-life-skill/) - I wrote recently about Robyn and networking - a client I really enjoyed working with. Tonight I had the privilege of meeting another great networker, and that is Ivan Misner, Founder of Business Network International (BNI). I was attending a "Meet the Founder" function in Melbourne, Australia, along with many other leaders of BNI here. - [Taking Your Business Seriously](https://www.vadirectory.net/taking-your-business-seriously/) - When setting up a business at home, I find that people tend to sort themselves into one of two different groups. One group takes their business seriously, putting in the groundwork to get it established, do the research, learn about their chosen industry, mix with the people who are already doing it and basically performing - [Working Virtually - What Does That Mean?](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-virtually-what-does-that-mean/) - I have on my VA website a Job Request form for prospective clients to fill out, asking them the questions that we need answers to, to know what kind of support they require. Two of those questions ask if they need local support and where the job is located if local support is required. However, - [Don't Blow Yourself Out Of The Water!](https://www.vadirectory.net/dont-blow-yourself-out-of-the-water/) - When a new VA is starting out, there is the temptation to accept any job that comes along, just for the sake of having a client and work to do. But things can go awry very, very quickly, if you have no experience in that type of work, and if you don't know what you're - [My client said to me today...](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-client-said-to-me-today/) - He rang up late in the afternoon, 5.20pm to be exact. He was in his car and heading out away from some meeting when he said to me, 'do you know what I like about having a virtual assistant compared to a personal assistant?' He didn't wait for my answer. 'Because I know that the - [Updating Business Cards](https://www.vadirectory.net/updating-business-cards/) - When you're starting out in business it's exciting to plan and design your business card so that it reflects what you want it to show. But don't despair if you don't get it right the first time. Opt to get only 250 or 500 made at first and see how they go and then get - [Free Teleconferencing Service](https://www.vadirectory.net/free-teleconferencing-service/) - I trialed a service with a client and a contact of her's yesterday. We held a 3 way conversation via a US number and were able to log into the web and see that each of us were on that call. It has moderating facilities and allows you to mute other callers on the line, - [Email Etiquette](https://www.vadirectory.net/email-etiquette/) - I wrote a series of articles a few years ago on Email Etiquette and they've been published all over the web and in a number of printed publications in different countries. I received the following email this week and I reprint it here with permission from the sender and intend to use this as an - [Email Etiquette I](https://www.vadirectory.net/email-etiquette-i/) - First published March 2003. I thought it might be worth visiting some email etiquette for all as the majority of the readers of this newsletter are now on email. It is important to consider that when emailing people you are on show, whether you like it or not, 24 hours a day, 7 days a - [The bain of all broadcast emailers...](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-bain-of-all-broadcast-emailers/) - ...the bounced address! I send out a monthly newsletter to people who are self-subscribed. So, I never understand why their mailboxes are full everytime I send out a newsletter! I end up deleting them from the list - in disgust. Many of them are VA email addresses - ones I recognise, some I don't, but - [Email Etiquette II](https://www.vadirectory.net/email-etiquette-ii/) - First published April 2003. I had great feedback from my last article, and was asked to write further on the subject; hence my title. This month I'll share on Email Etiquette in discussion groups. For those who are not yet aware, on the Internet there are hundreds of thousands of discussion groups available in any - [Are You a VA in Singapore?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-a-va-in-singapore/) - We've started to get enquiries for VAs in the Singapore region. We did have one member there but she's shifted and now we're left with no-one. I've made a few enquiries and did locate one person but she did not have the 'secretarial' skills required by the company asking. The company rang me again this - [I love being a VA!](https://www.vadirectory.net/i-love-being-a-va/) - The team and I were discussing the benefits of being a VA recently and one of my team members posted her response with a list and she gave me permission to put it here. I thought it would be great to hear from others too - if they'd like to add their comments! Might even - [VA Coaching and Training](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-coaching-and-training/) - Some time ago I announced the coaching and training program I was developing for the industry. The program is now in place and we have our first set of students undergoing the course, currently in week 5. Lessons are delivered weekly via email over a 10 week period, and the students return their homework via - [Back Up Before You're Packed Up!](https://www.vadirectory.net/back-up-before-youre-packed-up/) - When you operate a business online one of your most important assets is your computer - it's where all your data is stored. Everything you've set up, your systems, client information, database of contacts, history of things that have taken place, everything, it's a very important part of your business. So, why would people risk - [Charging What You're Worth?](https://www.vadirectory.net/charging-what-youre-worth/) - Knowing how much to charge for your services is something every new VA struggles with. And even those who have been operating for awhile. It often comes down to confidence in your own abilities and the confidence instilled in you by your clients as your business develops. I saw a great quote recently that I - [Transcriptions](https://www.vadirectory.net/transcriptions/) - I had an interesting chat with a public speaker recently. She is planning to get some typed transcriptions done of a series of teleseminars and had been told at a public speakers' networking event about cheap transcriptionists to get the work done. So, although I do a lot of work for her, and she knows - [Developing Online Credibility For Your VA Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/developing-online-credibility-for-your-va-business/) - Recently on the chat forum I moderate we were asked about a website relating to work being provided for VAs. I'd made comment about the lack of contact information, amongst other things, after I'd visited the site in question. I thought the following information would be useful for all VAs - both with a view - [Email Etiquette II](https://www.vadirectory.net/email-etiquette-ii-2/) - First published April 2003 I had great feedback from my last article, and was asked to write further on the subject; hence my title. This month I'll share on Email Etiquette in discussion groups. For those who are not yet aware, on the Internet there are hundreds of thousands of discussion groups available in any - [Time Management With Clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/time-management-with-clients/) - I had my eyes opened by a client late last month. A prospective client in the US had emailed three of my existing clients with a list of questions relating to the services I provide for them. The responses they gave I was very happy with - feedback is always good for your business, and - [I joined a forum but I'm not getting their messages!](https://www.vadirectory.net/i-joined-a-forum-but-im-not-getting-their-messages/) - Does this sound like you? Have you wondered why that might be? The chat forums are a great way to learn about your industry, mix and mingle with other VAs (or whatever your industry might be) and pick up work. However, unless you monitor your membership with these forums, you may find you're missing out - [Email Etiquette III](https://www.vadirectory.net/email-etiquette-iii/) - First published May 2003. Further to my previous issues this subject continues - part III. This month I'll share on Topic Changes and Read Receipts. Both can give you some trouble if you're not careful. Topic changes This applies particularly to discussion groups, but could also take place in normal everyday exchange of emails between - [Knowing What Belongs To You](https://www.vadirectory.net/knowing-what-belongs-to-you/) - I had a VA contact me today, concerned because she'd been 'off the air' and unable to access her website and email. She'd had to use a free email account to send a message to me. The webhost had taken her payment but not kept record of it and had taken her off the web. - [Keeping Abreast of Your Client Industries](https://www.vadirectory.net/keeping-abreast-of-your-client-industries/) - I came across a program recently that allows you to log into your blog (almost any blog platform) and submit a post. The tool is like a mini version of MS Word and allows you to easily edit your post, add images, and set the properties for the image, even link voicefiles. I did find - [Assistance in busy times](https://www.vadirectory.net/assistance-in-busy-times/) - I've been a tad quiet of late - usually a sign I've been quite busy. Three of my client associations have AGMs coming up and I've had preparations to do for all of them. Add to that our youngest daughter is getting married this weekend, and I've got family members coming to stay and others - [Explaining the name](https://www.vadirectory.net/explaining-the-name/) - I was asked recently on a VA forum what my business name meant? The person asking didn't want to be rude but she was very curious. Since she is based in a different country to me I can understand that the meaning wouldn't be obvious. So, I thought I'd share my explanation here for others - [What a Week!](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-a-week/) - Those who know me well but didn't hear from me in the past week were getting worried - I don't usually not respond to emails and phone calls. But it was all for good reason. A week ago our youngest daughter got married and I had notified my team and all my regular clients that - [Seeking free training?](https://www.vadirectory.net/seeking-free-training/) - I see a lot of people who are starting out in the virtual assistant or homebased secretary industry across a number of forums looking for as much free stuff as they can get, but the reality is that if it's really worthwhile, and it's going to help build and develop your skills, then it should - [There's Value in Writing Articles](https://www.vadirectory.net/theres-value-in-writing-articles/) - I periodically get clients (new and existing) ask for assistance in getting exposure for their website and their business. There are a number of things you can do such as Google Adwords or any of the other click through advert programs available, make sure your site is listed with search engines and so on, but - [Developing Your Niche](https://www.vadirectory.net/developing-your-niche/) - During a class session last night I was asked how do you develop a niche market for your VA business? My own particular specialities had happened almost by accident but it is about knowing what you like doing and keeping your eyes and ears open. In 1997 I was offered a role to run the - [VA Announcements](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-announcements/) - I notice on many of the VA forums that there are VA trainers and coaches, and other list owners, keen to promote the teleseminars, coaching sessions and other things they have happening and they want to let the VA community know. Some may feel they have a right to cross promote across the various lists - [VA Announcements - further info](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-announcements-further-info/) - After some thought and experimentation, I decided the best way to set this new site up is to make it a blog format. That way regular posters can register to become members (at no charge) of the site and submit their own posts whenever it suits them. So, if you have a VA event to - [The Right Client Mix](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-right-client-mix/) - Around a month ago I gained a new client - she is in a different country to me and working in an area that interested me. I'd been engaged to manage her email lists, monitor her website and eventually set up her shopping cart with a well known shopping cart system online. However, two things - [Subscription Not Working](https://www.vadirectory.net/subscription-not-working/) - It's often easy to forget the lessons you learn along the way that others may not yet have come across. The beauty of someone being just that bit further down the road than someone else beginning their journey. Recently a VA tried to subscribe to my new site VA-Announcements but her address was knocked back - [What's in a Name?](https://www.vadirectory.net/whats-in-a-name/) - It could be the difference between whether or not you get the client! I've lost count of the number of times that people spell my name incorrectly when responding to an email I've sent - either directly to them, or via a discussion forum. And many of these people are VAs - it makes me - [Setting Up Merchant Facilities](https://www.vadirectory.net/setting-up-merchant-facilities/) - There will come a time when a client wants to pay by credit card, but you haven't got a merchant account set up. What do you do? The fastest thing to set up is a Paypal account which is used widely in many countries these days, and very safely - despite the occasional rumours that - [Speaking in Acronyms](https://www.vadirectory.net/speaking-in-acronyms/) - Have you noticed how we all speak a different language these days? I don't mean cultural or regional languages but rather a language that relates to what we do on a daily basis? I mean, even VA or Virtual Assistant, is something that's common to those in the industry or those who use VAs, but - [Maintaining Systems Saves You Time and Money](https://www.vadirectory.net/maintaining-systems-saves-you-time-and-money/) - If you use your computer to make a living, how much do you do to look after it? By that I mean not only backing up your data (absolutely crucial) but also making sure your computer and its software is running well. You should be clearing out old files and the .tmp files on a - [Dual Business Names - What To Do?](https://www.vadirectory.net/dual-business-names-what-to-do/) - I had a member of my team email me a few days ago. She was concerned because a name she had registered, seemed to have someone else operating under the same name in another state. She wanted to know what to do? Further they both appear to have purchased the same domain name (?). My - [Does Being a VA Mean 100% Virtual?](https://www.vadirectory.net/does-being-a-va-mean-100-virtual/) - I was holding an online classroom session last night and two of the students voiced the same thought as they came to a sudden realisation. We'd been talking about advertising and marketing and I told them how important networking is. Networking locally. It was like a light suddenly went on for both of them. They - [How Well Do You Know Your Computer?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-well-do-you-know-your-computer/) - If you are on your computer several hours a day, for most days, you should know your computer reasonably well. To the extent that if it started doing something strange or out of the ordinary you would notice it. This helps to protect your system - don't trust that all those programs you have installed - [Not everything you read....](https://www.vadirectory.net/not-everything-you-read/) - .... is correct. I use Google Alert to keep me informed of new articles being posted, or if something has been uploaded that might refer to my business. Tonight two separate articles were posted about Virtual Assistants and both had very different charge rates listed. The American Chronicle's 'Virtual Assistants Offer Economic Advantages To Business - [Are You A Stationery Junkie?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-a-stationery-junkie/) - I am! Just can't help myself. Even as a child, I always loved starting each new year off at school with new exercise books to write in, or for my birthday or Christmas, receiving stationery notepads, with pretty images and fresh clean pages. To start a story in a brand new hardcovered book, writing in - [Where do YOUR lists come from?](https://www.vadirectory.net/where-do-your-lists-come-from/) - I find it remarkable that organisations I look up to, or would otherwise have a respect for, resort to spamming people with their promotions. On many occasions I've asked (whether by email or by phone) how they got my address or number, and they stumble over the answer - usually because the people employed for - [Building a Reputation](https://www.vadirectory.net/building-a-reputation/) - My previous post about lists prompted a discussion amongst my team and one mentioned how she'd been approached to do a joint venture with a company, which all sounded very good, until she was asked to hand over her list so the other company could contact all those people. She refused and I can't blame - [They're here, they're there, they're everywhere!](https://www.vadirectory.net/theyre-here-theyre-there-theyre-everywhere/) - Articles on becoming a VA that is. I've noticed an explosion of articles on different publications promoting how 'easy' it is to become a VA. Have a computer, have internet connection and voila! You're a VA! If it were that easy, we'd all be doing it! :-) There also seems to be a growing number - [The Business Mom's Guide Book - New Book Now Out!](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-business-moms-guide-book-new-book-now-out/) - I was privileged to be asked to contribute to a new book which was launched recently in the US. The book is called "The Business Mom Guide Book" and it is filled with stories of 'moms' in different locations who have developed successful businesses at home. The book was put together by Terilee Harrison and - [What's on your Screensaver?](https://www.vadirectory.net/whats-on-your-screensaver/) - I was having a chat with a client yesterday and mentioned I'd recently won an Executive Portrait Package. I'd been planning to get a new photo done for sometime and now something was going to be done about it! But she was concerned it might be one of those promotions that draw you in to - [Not For Publication...](https://www.vadirectory.net/not-for-publication/) - ... my home address that is. I've just had a phone call on my home number (which is separate from my business number these days) with a guy asking for me by name and asking if I had a business here. I told him yes, but I haven't used that number for about 3 years. - ['Suitable' or 'Eligible' to be a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/suitable-or-eligible-to-be-a-va/) - I was listening to someone speak recently about recruitment and how people who apply for jobs think they're suitable for a role, but would the employer actually think they're eligible? I had to think about that. 'Suitable', according to the Collins English Dictionary means 'appropriate, proper'. 'Eligible', according to the same dictionary means 'fit, worthy, - [C'mon, it's really easy, isn't it?](https://www.vadirectory.net/cmon-its-really-easy-isnt-it/) - Working from home as a VA that is. Periodically I get people coming up to me at an event saying they've been meaning to speak to me. They're looking for options to increase their income, or to replace income that is no longer there. They have a computer at home, used to be a secretary - [C'mon, it's really easy, isn't it?](https://www.vadirectory.net/cmon-its-really-easy-isnt-it/) - Working from home as a VA that is. Periodically I get people coming up to me at an event saying they've been meaning to speak to me. They're looking for options to increase their income, or to replace income that is no longer there. They have a computer at home, used to be a secretary - [Keeping Good Company](https://www.vadirectory.net/keeping-good-company/) - Whenever you have a plan to do something, it is always good practice to hang around with those who have already succeeded in what you're planning to do. Something is bound to rub off - you will pick up good habits, successful practices, and positive thinking. There are several Proverbs that touch on this and - [Frazzled or Rested?](https://www.vadirectory.net/frazzled-or-rested/) - Are things as crazy for you as they have been for me this year? This particular week used to be fairly quiet but it seems that people are working right up to the Christmas weekend and not taking any time off. I noticed this afternoon high school kids in uniform walking in a group - - [Appreciating the Quiet Times](https://www.vadirectory.net/appreciating-the-quiet-times/) - Christmas seems to come and go so quickly. We really start hearing about it September each year, decorations and wrappings on display in the shops, advertising material enticing you to buy everything under the sun as a gift for someone, and life seems to go into full speed as everyone tries to complete impossible projects - [Back to Work or Work at Home?](https://www.vadirectory.net/back-to-work-or-work-at-home/) - At this time of year many are thinking about having to return to a job after a brief holiday break but would rather remain home. So they do searches online and in the Yellow Pages for ideas on what they can do. Some get an idea and then look to see if others are already - [Help! Get Me Off the Roundabout!](https://www.vadirectory.net/help-get-me-off-the-roundabout/) - I've been challenged recently to think about what I'm bringing with me from 2006 that I don't want to have in 2007. Interesting thought. Things like challenging clients, work you don't enjoy doing, debts that are outstanding, something we keep doing over and over again but know we shouldn't (bad habits) and so on. Sometimes - [When Stats Matter](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-stats-matter/) - I use statcounter.com to track visits to my websites and my blogs - whilst each domain also has webstats attached to the web server, I find it useful having all of it in one place so I can do instant visual comparisons and see how each one is going. I started with a free account - [Not Cash Poor Nor Skills Poor](https://www.vadirectory.net/cash-poor-but-not-skills-poor/) - This time of year invariably brings up a couple of regular items for comment in news articles and blogs: New Year's Resolutions, and ideas for changing jobs or starting a business and so on. These days it seems that starting up a Virtual Assistant business is ideal for the 'cash poor' as I saw it - [You Gotta Laugh!](https://www.vadirectory.net/you-gotta-laugh/) - It almost reads like a comedy with a phishing story included. But it's not, it is, or was, reality. A client of mine has been registered with a free teleconferencing company that has a web based control panel which we'd been using for teleseminars. Late last year she got an email saying that she needed - [Boy, am I slow!](https://www.vadirectory.net/boy-am-i-slow/) - So good to see all the links to my post about how starting a Virtual Assistant business is not for the 'cash poor', but what I didn't tell you about are some things I have available to help you become a Virtual Assistant if you are planning to do so. Of course, they are linked - [Do You Need a Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-need-a-virtual-assistant/) - I saw a post on a 'Start a Home Business Blog' today that indicated engaging a virtual assistant was an expensive option. He ended up hiring someone else but didn't explain what it was he wanted done or any indication of what he was looking to pay. It is true that there are VAs at - [Remember, You're On Show](https://www.vadirectory.net/remember-youre-on-show/) - I read a lot of blogs, especially those relating to my industry as a Virtual Assistant. I am constantly amazed by the bad grammar, spelling and incorrect typing on blogs that are attached to business websites, some of which belong to VAs, or those who are talking about becoming a VA. I saw such a - [A Great Looking Website Isn't Everything....](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-great-looking-website-isnt-everything/) - I saw a post tonight regarding websites and their designers. Demetria emphasised the importance of doing your research and making sure you not only get someone who can do your site but make sure they also include your meta tags (keywords and description) and make your site search engine friendly - otherwise no-one is going - [A By-Product...](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-by-product/) - Yesterday I attended an all day planning session with my coach and his other clients. He gets all his clients together regularly through the year to listen to motivational speakers and learn more about developing their businesses. Yesterday was an all day session designed to help us plan our year and then break it up - [I Am Woman!](https://www.vadirectory.net/i-am-woman/) - Over the past couple of months I've had a business directory company from another country constantly contact me to list with their website. They list all the benefits and are quite persistent. Normally I would register - it's always good to have my website listed with another service. However, they insist on addressing me as - [Clothing Change](https://www.vadirectory.net/clothing-change/) - I love working with Wordpress. So many templates available with options for 1, 2 and 3 columns and a whole lot of extras. Makes changing the look of your blog almost as easy as changing your clothes - you could do it daily if you wish(the blog I mean)! And so, my new look blog - [Discovering Your Niche!](https://www.vadirectory.net/discovering-your-niche/) - As the virtual assistant industry grows and develops VAs are beginning to discover that they either have a passion for a particular area, or they need to find an area to get passionate about. Whilst many do run 'generalised' businesses and offer services to a wide range of clients, many are finding more satisfaction in - [Linking to lots of blogs](https://www.vadirectory.net/linking-to-lots-of-blogs/) - If you haven't heard about the 2000 Bloggers' Project, you need to head over to my blog at SOHO-Life and read all about it. If you are keen to get listed on a blog that is being listed in lots of places, then it's not too late and you could be one of the 2000. - [VA Forums - Boards or Emails?](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-forums-boards-or-emails/) - For many years now the VA network I manage has been using YahooGroups for its messaging to members. I had explored message boards quite a long time ago and felt that members wouldn't log in on a daily basis to check for messages relevant to them. At that time my choice was the right one - [Business Operator or Employee?](https://www.vadirectory.net/business-operator-or-employee/) - There still seems to be confusion, at least amongst the newer entries into the VA industry, that they are looking for 'jobs' online as opposed to seeking 'clients'. The confusion of not knowing what your target market is in getting established as a Virtual Assistant will cause considerable delay in getting things happening. You can - [Working In Your Bathrobe?](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-in-your-bathrobe/) - This month has been deemed the month for home-based workers to don their bathrobes to do their work. Whilst I appreciate the sentiment and reasoning behind this idea, I honestly can't say I've ever worked in my bathrobe in the almost 13 years of my business. For the record, I do enjoy the freedom that - [Getting Out Amongst the Clients!](https://www.vadirectory.net/getting-out-amongst-the-clients/) - I am constantly amazed at the number of people I come across who want to operate a business online from home - but not put in what's required to meet their target audience! You can't just put up a website and say 'here I am world, come to me!' because that just doesn't work. You - [Are You Really Operating Globally?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-really-operating-globally/) - A recent post at SOHO-Life was about telling your (global) audience about your business in global terms. Today, my daughter and I have been trying to fax a horse stud in South Africa. She's booked to go there for a working holiday but is having no success with responses to recent emails. The owners may - [Starting With the End in Mind](https://www.vadirectory.net/starting-with-the-end-in-mind/) - This relates to something that happened to one of my team members, but it is an important note for all in any regard. A client came through us last year seeking someone to set up a database in Excel for him. Originally it started off being a simple database but grew more complex as the - [What Do VAs Do?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-do-vas-do/) - I came across a blog entry today regarding Guy Kawasaki and the fact he had hired a virtual assistant but struggled with the discipline of being able to get things done. He spends a lot of time blogging and writing these days (seems an addiction many of us have!). I posted a comment and the - [A Day To Work On My Business, Instead Of In It](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-day-to-work-on-my-business-instead-of-in-it/) - If you've had any contact with a business coach, or if you do a lot of reading about operating a business, you will be familiar with the need to work on your business, instead of just in it. Michael Gerber mentions this in his book - The E-Myth as well - I read his book - [Promoting Your VA Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/promoting-your-va-business/) - Regularly on the chat forums, I see new VAs seeking advice for getting clients. I recently posted the following on one of those forums. As with any business, marketing is an important part of what you should be doing regularly, at least weekly. This could be in the form of paid advertising, networking, calling people, - [Troubleshooting Software](https://www.vadirectory.net/troubleshooting-software/) - The other day my husband was having a challenge with an update of software on his computer. Normally he can sort out software problems as he spends his work days working with the technical side of software design but this particular one was proving troublesome. The help files on the provider's site was not useful - [Help! Someone has copied my website!](https://www.vadirectory.net/help-someone-has-copied-my-website/) - Some of the VA forums I belong to have recently had discussions about new VAs who are copying the content of more established VAs and placing it on their website, unchanged. It is plagiarism and as far as I know, that isn't legal. It certainly isn't moral and can be very upsetting for the owner - [Hieroglyphics and mixed up words in spam](https://www.vadirectory.net/hieroglyphics-and-mixed-up-words-in-spam/) - What is all this ridiculous stuff that makes no sense that comes in spam? Is it some kind of secret code that only the exceptional few know and understand? Perhaps there's some global thing happening where groups of people around the world are planning things and the information is disseminated by the code in the - [Web copy and plagiarism](https://www.vadirectory.net/web-copy-and-plagiarism/) - Regular readers will have seen my post a few days ago about website copy being stolen. Several comments were made including one from Jonathan Bailey of Plagiarism Today. I emailed Jonathan and asked him some questions about his suggestion and he has very kindly given back some answers so I'm placing them here for your - [Happy Anniversary To Me, Happy Anniversary To....](https://www.vadirectory.net/happy-anniversary-to-me-happy-anniversary-to/) - Today is the 13th anniversary of the registration of "A Clayton's Secretary". A milestone in small business as we all know and have heard the statistics so many times of the number of businesses that make it to the end of the first year, the second, the fifth and the tenth. So, I just couldn't - [Finding out what to charge](https://www.vadirectory.net/finding-out-what-to-charge/) - Periodically on the VA forums to which I belong, a VA will post a question, asking what is the 'normal' rate for a particular service. There are a number of reasons why that question will cause challenges for them and I'll explain it here. Firstly, the VA forums have members from all over the world - [What You Pay For and so on....](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-you-pay-for-and-so-on/) - On one of the VA forums I moderate we periodically have discussions about the use of free software versus paid software. In many cases it makes sense to pay for decent software and after all, we are running businesses aren't we? Sometimes going cheap means you pay for what you get - something that's 'cheap - [Podcast & Blog Hopping Virtual Assistant Promotes Industry during 45 Day Tour](https://www.vadirectory.net/podcast-blog-hopping-virtual-assistant-promotes-industry-during-45-day-tour/) - Well, the 2nd annual Online International Virtual Assistant Convention is almost here and along with it, something totally new! A blog hopping tour. Details below. Baltimore, MD ― We've heard about or read about tours designed to promote all kinds of causes or industries. But you've never read about something like this before. Sharon Williams, - [2 Years of blogging!](https://www.vadirectory.net/2-years-of-blogging/) - This month marks the 2nd anniversary of this blog, the first of many. When I started it was to try out this new medium for a client so rather than learn on her time, I learnt on mine, exploring the blogosphere, joining communities and commenting on other people's blogs. It was several months before I - [Fridays vs. Mondays](https://www.vadirectory.net/fridays-vs-mondays/) - I knew there was another reason why I left the corporate world. I love working at home and this might help explain why. My husband sent it to me and I couldn't resist sharing it. To get an appreciation of what I'm talking about: I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did! KMT - [Changing Feed Provider](https://www.vadirectory.net/changing-feed-provider/) - I'm changing over to Feedburner so if you are receiving this via Feedblitz, please do re-subscribe at the link on this blog - I am seeking to shift the list via export but until I have approval to do this (Feedburner needs to be assured my list was opted-in) it would be good for people - [A Client Has Asked Me To Do Something I Haven't Before - Should I?](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-client-has-asked-me-to-do-something-i-havent-before-should-i/) - I guess one of the key things here is - is the client brand new or is the client an existing one asking their VA to provide another service? The answer to this question may give a clue to what should be done. I wouldn't start providing a service I know nothing about for a - [Growing Your Network Online](https://www.vadirectory.net/growing-your-network-online/) - Have you been approached to join LinkedIn yet? You most likely have, but like me, knew very little about it, joined and then nothing much happened, except for the occasional email from a stranger asking to connect with you. And so for a year I've just let my membership sit, with less than 50 contacts, - [VA Blog Hopping Tour Continues](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-blog-hopping-tour-continues/) - I forgot to add what was happening in week 2 so here are both week 2 and 3 for you to visit. A reminder of what this is all about is included below. As an added twist to this virtual event, Ms. Williams will leave a mystery clue at each stop, as well as a - [Ultimate Aussie Blogroll Top 100](https://www.vadirectory.net/technorati-list/) - A year ago I saw a post on Duncan Riley's blog about the A-list of Australian bloggers and he talked about the lack of Australians in the top 100. He started to mention bloggers he thought could be on that list. I came across the post and made a comment that there were no women - [The VA Blogging Tour Goes Down Under](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-va-blogging-tour-goes-down-under/) - Hi Kathie, This is my first stop “down under” and I am honored to be a guest at your blog. I know I will have a great time visiting all my Australian VA associates during this drive to promote the VA industry and leading up to our Online International Virtual Assistants Convention (OIVAC). So Kathie, - [The VA Blogging Tour Goes Down Under](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-va-blogging-tour-goes-down-under/) - Hi Kathie, This is my first stop “down under” and I am honored to be a guest at your blog. I know I will have a great time visiting all my Australian VA associates during this drive to promote the VA industry and leading up to our Online International Virtual Assistants Convention (OIVAC). So Kathie, - [More on Top Aussie Bloggers](https://www.vadirectory.net/more-on-top-aussie-bloggers/) - Further to my recent post about the Top 100 Aussie Blogs list, The Age (Melbourne Newspaper) has an article out today - page 9 I'm told, but it's also available online about Aussie bloggers. Worth checking out the links they have attached to the article. http://blogpond.wordpress.com/top-100-australian-blogs-index/ and http://problogger.net/ I wonder if this means Australia is - [Reader's Digest article about VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/readers-digest-article-about-vas/) - Recently I've had a number of people in the US fill out the form on my VA Trainer website and in the 'where did you find us' field they entered 'magazine' or 'Reader's Digest'. I wasn't aware a new article had come out about my business so went in search of the article to find - [Out of Sight, Out of Mind](https://www.vadirectory.net/out-of-sight-out-of-mind/) - We were having a discussion on our VA forum the other day and one of the newer VAs spoke of the challenge she was having in getting her business up and running. There were a lot of things demanding her attention and it was a busy time in her life but she was concerned that - [When the Client Doesn't Understand](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-the-client-doesnt-understand/) - Not everyone understands how to use a Virtual Assistant or what a VA can do for them. I get asked regularly what kind of business I'm in and when I tell them I'm a Virtual Assistant I get asked the normal question 'what's that?' And then when I explain that for me, it means being - [Looking for the silver lining...](https://www.vadirectory.net/looking-for-the-silver-lining/) - Today was one of those days I'd like to start all over again, but that's just not possible. The morning started out ok until I rebooted my computer as I hadn't done it the night before (my usual nightly ritual). That's when the day came unstuck. My computer got into an eternal loop trying to - [Following on...](https://www.vadirectory.net/following-on/) - After the challenges I had this week with my computer, I thought I would share with you some of the things I could have done to make my life easier. I'm sharing them here because 'why learn from your own mistakes, when you can learn from others'?' I'm hoping the information here will assist you - [Websites for Virtual Newbies](https://www.vadirectory.net/websites-for-virtual-newbies/) - One of my new team members was asking about the process for setting up a website. I tried to outline it as simply as possible for her and then thought it would be good to share it here. Setting up your website - there are a few components to this: 1. Purchase a domain name - [Have you registered yet for the OIVAC?](https://www.vadirectory.net/have-you-registered-yet-for-the-oivac/) - The Online International Virtual Assistants Convention is at the end of next week. I can't believe it's almost a year since our very first one! That time has passed so quickly. There is so much to learn and benefit from attending an event such as this and although it's for the VA industry, anyone with - [New Buzz Word?](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-buzz-word/) - I was at a meeting with a new client today, well, actually 3 men who represent a group and the group will be my client - if that makes sense? Anyway one of the men had mentioned he'd never heard of Virtual Assistants before and thought that one of the others had made up another - [5 Top Ways to Use a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/5-top-ways-to-use-a-va/) - All small business owners know how tough it can be, trying to wear every hat in their business and keep balance at the same time. That's why they need support and who better than a Virtual Assistant - their own personal support? 1. Screen, forward and action your email. A number of my clients have - [When Should You Quit Your Day Job?](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-should-you-quit-your-day-job/) - I was reading one of Des Walsh's latest posts at Thinking Home Business and he was referring to a blog post he had read by Darlene McDaniel (blogging seems to do that - lead you from one to another!) and the question had been raised as to when people should quit their day job when - [First day of OIVAC is over!](https://www.vadirectory.net/first-day-of-oivac-is-over/) - Well, the first day of the OIVAC is over and what a great time we had. Fantastic speakers, great information, and lots of networking and discussion. It was good to see some new names amongst the networkers and I enjoyed the presentations. If you haven't been along yet you are really missing something. And especially - [Do What You Love](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-what-you-love/) - The OIVAC had Fran Capo speaking at the Virtual Assistant Awards Ceremony and she had a most valuable message for everyone there! And that was doing what you enjoy - that life shouldn't be spent working at a job you don't like. She also reminded us that the majority of things we worry about do - [Ethics in Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/ethics-in-business/) - Recently I've attended a business breakfast, a sponsor lunch and participated in a forum at TV show website, all of which have been discussing the topic of Ethics in Business. And then just this week a presentation at the OIVAC about Business Ethics. The fact that this topic is being discussed in many places recently - [Blogging For VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/blogging-for-vas/) - Have you noticed all the different communities available now for bloggers? So many places to list your blog to attract visitors and readers, or dare I say it? Fans. Particularly since I've been hanging around LinkedIn I've been learning about other places to list my blogs, and to mix and mingle with other bloggers. LinkedIn - [Well, it's over...](https://www.vadirectory.net/well-its-over/) - ... for another year that is! All those months of planning and preparation, contacting people, pulling together groups of volunteers, lining up speakers and topics, updating the website, the amazing 45 day blog hopping tour and so much more. A team of dedicated (and probably rather crazy) Virtual Assistants have just pulled off the second - [MSNBC Highlights VA Industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/msnbc-highlights-va-industry/) - Exciting news this morning! Messages from across the sea have told us how Karen Reddick, a Colorado VA had been interviewed for the MSNBC Today Show. This is great exposure for our industry and highlights how we can support clients without having to physically meet them face-to-face. Karen talks about this in the interview. I - [Sponsorships - Exposure For Your Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/sponsorships-exposure-for-your-business/) - I was driving to a breakfast today not far from home. It's Saturday and normally I wouldn't be going out, especially not early in the morning - it's my day for relaxing at home but this breakfast was special because I was a sponsor for the event. Sponsorship is often an overlooked opportunity for gaining - [Any VAs in Japan?](https://www.vadirectory.net/any-vas-in-japan/) - My husband and I are planning our next trip. We have a daughter working in Nagaoka in Japan and so we're going over to visit her for a couple of weeks Aug/Sept. I'm wondering if there are any VAs in Japan that I could meet whilst I'm there. We're planning to also visit Tokyo, Kyoto - [Let Them See The Benefits!](https://www.vadirectory.net/let-them-see-the-benefits/) - I was having a morning tea a few days ago with some of my team. It's always good to get together with a few at a time to enjoy a cuppa and cake, and a good old-fashioned chat face-to-face. We all have families at different stages of life and it's fun to share ideas and - [Getting Paid To Write For A Year?](https://www.vadirectory.net/getting-paid-to-write-for-a-year/) - If you're like me then the subject for this post would sound like a dream! And it does to me. I love to write and get nowhere near enough time to write as much as I like. And frequently I come across items I'd like to write here for our industry and if I don't - [Working In The Front Line](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-in-the-front-line/) - I'm a firm believer that it's important to get involved in local community and local groups. Even as a virtual operator, there is still the need to get to know local business people and others around me. Not all my business has to come from online methods and it's true that there are people down - [Searching For A VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/searching-for-a-va/) - There was a great post by David recently at Webby Online. David lists himself as an Internet Entrepreneur and he was on the search for suitable support for his business. He'd done the usual search in places such as elance.com and had to work through a number of rather varied bids but then came across - [Taking The Plunge!](https://www.vadirectory.net/taking-the-plunge/) - Some call it 'diving into the deep end', others call it 'stepping out in faith', but whatever it is leaving a (secure) job and moving full time into your own business is a big scary step and it's hard to know when is the right time to do it. There are some guidelines that can - [Exploring Picasa](https://www.vadirectory.net/exploring-picasa/) - As a Virtual Assistant, I love exploring new programs but am sometimes skeptical towards some until I hear from others of their own personal experiences. Free programs I do view warily until proven otherwise, I don't want to get caught with something I wished I hadn't downloaded. However, recently my team were discussing a photo - [Check It, Before Passing It On!](https://www.vadirectory.net/check-it-before-passing-it-on/) - We all get numerous emails on a daily basis but when we get something that's a warning and seems like it's important, the urge to forward it on to as many people as possible prompts us to do so. But I'd like to encourage you to stop and think for a moment and do something - [What is a Virtual Assistant For?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-is-a-virtual-assistant-for/) - I was alerted to an article by the Sydney Morning Herald titled "The Rise of the Virtual Assistant". The author has evidently experienced some challenges with their contact with a VA and has written about it. What was obvious to me straight away is that the article confused a VA with being sales staff or - [Google is Quick!](https://www.vadirectory.net/google-is-quick/) - I did a post on a newspaper article about our industry yesterday and then heard that another newspaper had published the same article. So I did a Google search to see who else had and was amazed to see my blogpost on the first page of Google in 4th position less than 3 hours after - [Are You Vitamin D Deficient?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-vitamin-d-deficient/) - I was watching Sunrise whilst putting in a bit of time on the treadmill this morning and it highlighted a recent news article that I heard over the weekend but hadn't really thought about. They had an expert talking about the importance of getting sunshine on a regular basis to prevent Vitamin D deficiency. They - [Lucky I'm Home!](https://www.vadirectory.net/lucky-im-home/) - My husband rides his bike to work every day - it's just under 21km one way. He loves to ride, get the exercise and hates getting caught up in public transport systems that rarely seem to run on time these days and are overcrowded. If you live in Melbourne, Australia, you'll have some idea of - [I've Been Tagged!](https://www.vadirectory.net/ive-been-tagged/) - Seems I've just been tagged by Darlene at Interview Chatter. The idea seems to be to write 7 random facts about myself and tie them into my blog somehow. Mmmm. Now what to share? As a young girl I'd always dreamed of running my own business, I just didn't know what or how. Twenty years - [Are You Setting Yourself Up For Failure?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-setting-yourself-up-for-failure/) - I was having a discussion with a woman who has almost zero turnover of staff in her business. I told her a number of people will come through my network, and stay for less than six months and disappear again. Her response was that she also gets those type of people and she wasn't counting - [Hiring a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/hiring-a-va/) - I saw a blog post discussing the pros and cons of hiring a VA and the author asked a question but does not have comments switched on so there wasn't any way for me to respond. Nor does he have any contact information available. So I'm linking to his post here and answering his question. - [Are You Crossing the Line?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-crossing-the-line/) - When setting up a new business, many VAs continue in their full-time or part-time jobs until such time they feel they can leave and work in their own business full-time. However, this means there are occasions when they feel they need to respond to email, answer calls or go out during their regular business hours - [ACS News](https://www.vadirectory.net/acs-news/) - You might not be aware that I produce a monthly newsletter from the "A Clayton's Secretary" website. This newsletter has been running since 1995, first in print format, then went to web format a few years later - the earliest one I have on the site is dated July 2000. I still have some copies - [Can Men Be VAs?](https://www.vadirectory.net/can-men-be-vas/) - I was recently asked this question. The person asking wants to become a VA but wasn't sure if there were other men doing this and whether it would be more difficult for them to break into it. I know of a few men who are VAs, not many but there shouldn't be any reason why - [Type at home and tell your boss to quit!](https://www.vadirectory.net/type-at-home-and-tell-your-boss-to-quit/) - Ever receive an email that told you that? Or what about 'Home typing out and submitting online forms'. I recently received two badly formatted emails offering me work at home 'typing out forms' and submitting them online, just doing 30wpm. Or how about the one that says you can 'make $250-$2250+ per day working only - [The Pros and Cons of Using a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-pros-and-cons-of-using-a-va/) - Regular readers will know that I am a member of the business network LinkedIn. I've spent a fair bit of time there since Easter, getting to know people and making connections. It's been worthwhile as business has also occurred as a result of developing relationships with various members there. One of my favourite sections of - [Question: I am trying to work from home. How did you get started communicating online and getting assignments. Thank you.](https://www.vadirectory.net/question-i-am-trying-to-work-from-home-how-did-you-get-started-communicating-online-and-getting-assignments-thank-you/) - The above was recently posted by a new member of my VA forum and I decided it would be good to share my answer here as well. Hi, this is something everyone goes through when starting out and many new VAs do not realise that getting work online is not the only way to get - [Coaching Courses For VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/coaching-courses-for-vas/) - I was recently approached by an organisation I'd never heard of to promote their new certification for VAs. Their email was not very clear in explaining what they were promoting and when I went to their website, I found their page for the certification for VAs. However, I decided to decline their request to promote - [Virtual Assistants in the Legal World](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistants-in-the-legal-world/) - Some months ago (in 2006 actually) we had a few articles come out in Lawyer's Weekly in Australia and it was good to see the recognition by the legal industry of how Virtual Assistants can assist them in their daily needs. A new article has just been published by Law Practice Today titled The Virtual - [Do You Skype?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-skype/) - Skype is frequently used by VAs the world over now to have discussions with clients, participate in seminars, partake of coaching and contact distant family members. Recently on one of the VA forums I belong to there was a question about Skype and how easy it was to use. A VA's family member is going - [Virtual Assistant Needed](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-needed/) - I like to keep watch on various things posted online, as many of us do and it never ceases to amaze me to see someone seeking a 'virtual assistant' and then putting the price on what they want to pay. It frequently doesn't match up - the rate the client wants to pay versus the - [Blogathon Interview](https://www.vadirectory.net/blogathon-interview/) - Chris Conley at Startup or Bust contacted me recently for an interview for his upcoming Blogathon which is now taking place. Why not head on over there and give him some encouragement and read all the interviews he's done on many different subjects? Mine is interview number 4 out of a total of 48 he's - [Can A Virtual Assistant Be An Employee?](https://www.vadirectory.net/can-a-virtual-assistant-be-an-employee/) - I saw this question posted at a forum I participate in and thought I'd share my answer here for readers too. Virtual Assistants are self-employed operators, they are not employees. The VA industry has evolved with the growth of Networks (which are not employer companies) - networks of virtual assistant members who benefit through web - [8 Random Facts About Kathie Thomas](https://www.vadirectory.net/8-random-facts-about-kathie-thomas/) - I've been tagged (again), this time by Angela Wills of StarVA so here I go with some new random facts about me. I'm the eldest of 4 children. I grew up in South Australia. I'm constantly told I don't look old enough to have 5 daughters in their 20s ;-) Yay! I once spent 6 - [Another Great Tool For VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/another-great-tool-for-vas/) - Have you used Xe.com's currency conversion site? I love this site - so easy to use and I can quickly work out the different currency rates for various things, especially if I'm promoting a new product or tool on any one of my sites. The other day I learnt of a currency I'd not heard - [When There's An Event On](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-theres-an-event-on/) - Are you aware there is a site that announces Virtual Assistant courses, seminars, training events and other things? No? Then you need to go over to www.va-announcements.com and subscribe to the list. Many of the VA networks list their events regularly at this site, plus place announcements and it's a good one-stop-shop for the industry. - [Seeking a VA - price and where to search?](https://www.vadirectory.net/seeking-a-va-price-and-where-to-search/) - I was having a chat to someone recently about places to seek Virtual Assistant support and elance.com and guru.com were mentioned. I immediately thought 'oh, oh' and waited for him to finish speaking before I tackled this aspect of our conversation. Earlier in the week I'd had another business operator contact me looking for support - [Virtual Assistant or Virtual Worker?](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-or-virtual-worker/) - As the VA industry evolves and more people become aware of this excellent way of working, it is only natural that there are going to be companies developing who have a staff of virtual workers. We've been seeing this in India for sometime but now it's expanding to other parts of the world, with at - [I love surprises!](https://www.vadirectory.net/i-love-surprises/) - This year has been a very different year for me as I've made some shifts in what I've been doing in my business. Moving some clients onto other VAs as I made room for increased writing activity and public speaking. I have a passion for helping women who want to work at home and be - [The Importance of Follow Up](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-importance-of-follow-up/) - As a Virtual Assistant looking after a number of clients, it is really important to diarise items that need following up. With the increased number of emails, phone calls, and information to read and take in, it is very easy to get in overload mode and not realise that someone didn't respond to your email - [Presenting Your Business Via Email](https://www.vadirectory.net/presenting-your-business-via-email/) - Regular readers will have noted my recent absence but hopefully they will have known or realised I was away on leave - well and truly overdue and very much enjoyed. I went to Japan with my husband to visit one of our daughters - if you read my family blog you'll see some of my - [Be Careful of the Technology You Choose](https://www.vadirectory.net/be-careful-of-the-technology-you-choose/) - I love exploring all the things available to us in various software programs but there are some things I prefer not to use, although they were designed to make my life easier. Read Receipts for example - I don't necessarily want people to know the minute I've read their email so I have my program - [Membership to VA Networks - do they add value to my business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/membership-to-va-networks-do-they-add-value-to-my-business/) - I recently had a new VA email me about joining the network I manage. She asked a number of the usual questions but then also asked the question which is the subject heading of this post. Interesting question and one I thought I would share here. I know that whenever anyone starts up in business - [When Is An Hour Not An Hour?](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-is-an-hour-not-an-hour/) - This is a reprint of an article I wrote in September 2004. I feel it's important to bring this topic back up since there are new VAs on the scene all the time, and new clients. The team and I had an interesting discussion online the other day, which resulted from a client and team - [Is a job offer by email genuine?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-a-job-offer-by-email-genuine/) - If you're like me, you get lots of job offers by email. Let's face it, as soon as your email address is on display anywhere, it's going to get grabbed and used by others. Or even if you send an email to someone who has an infected machine, the address can then be picked up - [What Version Software?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-version-software/) - When new software becomes available many new VAs are keen to upgrade as soon as possible, or buy the latest and greatest. But I want to encourage you to stop and think for a moment. Will this mean that you are no longer compatible with prospective clients? Will this cause some difficulty in clients being - [7 Keys to Successfully Work At Home](https://www.vadirectory.net/7-keys-to-successfully-work-at-home/) - I want to share with you an article one of my business coach clients has written. I often speak about the same things to the VAs I chat with via forums, but this information is for anyone who runs a home based business. If you like what you read here, why not drop over to - [Are You Real?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-real/) - I had a young woman ring me the other day. She sounded a little nervous on the phone but the reason for that soon became obvious. You see, she'd signed up for a typing job at home on the web sometime back, paid out money and then nothing happened. She lost her money and felt - [When You Don't Meet the Criteria](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-you-dont-meet-the-criteria/) - I recently had a wannabe Virtual Assistant email me seeking advice and help. She very much wants to become a VA but doesn't have the 5 years minimum experience that many of the VA networks advise members should have and she wanted to know my thoughts. Below is my response to her. The criteria for - [Blog Carnival of Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/blog-carnival-of-virtual-assistants/) - Welcome to the 3rd edition of the Carnival of Virtual Assistants. This month we’ve had some great submissions. I am delighted to be your host for this particular session! Do you know your computer software? Just how much should a Virtual Assistant know and understand their computer and software? I believe it is really important - [Webinar or Teleseminar?](https://www.vadirectory.net/webinar-or-teleseminar/) - Recently a VA was asking whether she needed a long distance phone plan to attend a webinar. I responded explaining that there is a difference between a webinar and a teleseminar, i.e. sometimes a teleseminar will have a web based presentation but generally webinars don't have the phone involved (at least not those I've been - [HBB TV](https://www.vadirectory.net/hbb-tv/) - I recently appeared on a WebTV program recorded for HBB TV (home based business). This interview is about my new book and also my business - I thought you might like to see it. The recording is just over 8 mins long. - [Speed and Efficiency = Cheaper Job!](https://www.vadirectory.net/speed-and-efficiency-cheaper-job/) - Periodically I get requests from prospective clients who are seeking work to be done at a really low rate. Sometimes I have to turn them away - I wouldn't want to even ask my team to consider the job. Other times I take great pains to explain to the prospective client why our rates are - [Brenner Research on VA Industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/brenner-research-on-va-industry/) - Many of you will know that Brenner's have done industry reports on the VA industry. Their most recent one has left out vital information relating to a good portion of the VA industry - those located in Australia, New Zealand and other countries. If you've not previously participated in the survey this year then I - [Do you have a product or service for the VA Industry? Then read on...](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-have-a-product-or-service-for-the-va-industry-then-read-on/) - Over the past few months I've had a number of approaches from people who have developed a product or service that they want to promote to the Virtual Assistant industry. Sometimes it's clear to me that they don't understand the VA industry at all and after discussing their product or service and our industry, they - [$5 an hour VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/5-an-hour-va/) - Recently I became aware of a promotion for a chapter of a business networking group, promoting the 4 hour work week and using $5 an hour VAs. Whilst I know this book has held the interest of a lot of people who want to work less hours and still make the same or more amount - [Spring is in the air and that means...](https://www.vadirectory.net/spring-is-in-the-air-and-that-means/) - ... clearing out the clutter!  In the southern hemisphere we are in the middle of springtime, the flowers are beginning to bloom, birds are waking us earlier in the morning and I'm growing aware of the clutter around me. Perhaps in winter we feel it necessary to have 'stuff' around us, to close us in, - [Challenges and Hindrances](https://www.vadirectory.net/challenges-and-hindrances/) - Regular readers know I belong to LinkedIn, which is a very large international professional business network. I have met so many people there and have been able to secure new clients for my team as well. It's been a great group. A new connection asked me some questions and I thought they were so good, - [More on 'cheap VA labour'](https://www.vadirectory.net/more-on-cheap-va-labour/) - Google Alert brings some interesting snippets in from time to time. Today there was an advert placed at Craig's list for a Virtual Assistant (Php9k-Php15k) so I went to investigate. Have a look at what this American businessman wants - someone who will work his hours, 8-10 hours a day, six days a week. That's - [Real Virtual Work](https://www.vadirectory.net/real-virtual-work/) - I live in Australia and manage a team of Virtual Assistants (VAs) that are in 16 countries altogether, so quite a widespread team. I've recently been doing a survey of my team with respect to the job requests that come into our team via my office, or via one of the team members. One thing - [The Importance of Networking... or putting your eggs all in one basket?](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-importance-of-networking-or-putting-your-eggs-all-in-one-basket/) - As I meet more and more business owner/operators the thing that tends to separate the successful from the not so successful, it seems to me, are those who understand the value of networking. Many talk about it but not all walk their talk. Being in business means having to do more than just supply services - [Sub-contracting to other VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/sub-contracting-to-other-vas/) - As the Virtual Assistant industry gains increasing interest and more and more clients come on board, many VAs have taken to sub-contracting work to other VAs in order to cope with sudden workload increases. This is a good sign that things are picking up, but there are some things that all VAs should take note - [Watching Out For Scams](https://www.vadirectory.net/watching-out-for-scams/) - As a Virtual Assistant, your contact details are going to be on display for the whole world to see, so it is very possible that you will be approached by a scammer for work to be done. This can take many forms but for the most part they are out to get your money, so - [More than a reminder service...](https://www.vadirectory.net/more-than-a-reminder-service/) - I read a posting on a blog written by a man who was talking about his Virtual Assistant (girlfriend). This VA was rather different, in that it was really an email and web based reminder service that he could use to assist him with remembering actions, meetings and other activities throughout his busy day. It's - [Prospective Client Gets Rejected](https://www.vadirectory.net/prospective-client-gets-rejected/) - Interesting article in The Sydney Morning Herald last week about writer Valerie Khoo getting rejected when trying to get some transcription work done. She'd contacted the Indian company mentioned in Tim Ferriss' book about the 4-hour week, only to find they were too busy to do the work for her and would need to outsource - [Prospective Client Gets Rejected II](https://www.vadirectory.net/prospective-client-gets-rejected-ii/) - Further to my previous post, I was pleased to see that Valerie visited here and added comment. She advised that she did research transcription companies before looking further afield. She just hadn't indicated that in her article and it might have helped those of us who commented on her article to see a more complete - [Still So Much To Learn!](https://www.vadirectory.net/still-so-much-to-learn/) - It doesn't matter how long you've been doing something, technology is always bringing about change and new ways to do things. This means we must always be open to learning, experimenting and trying things out. Remaining locked into ways of doing things will soon mean we are outdated and that newer VAs and service providers - [What Kind of Clients Do You Service?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-kind-of-clients-do-you-service/) - I thought it would be good to share on the type of clients I service and I invite other VAs to add comment here about their clients also. This is for the benefit of prospective clients who read this blog so they can see that 'yes, we can look after you too'. My longest term - [My name is not Katie!](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-name-is-not-katie/) - I'm beginning to t'ink t'e letter 'h' 'as gone on strike or disappeared... For mont's now people 'ave been calling me Katie or writing 'dear Katie in t'eir emails and ot'er correspondence. But I'm sure I've seen it in ot'er words so w'y can't t'ey see it in my name? Someone did say to me - [Getting Your VA Business Started](https://www.vadirectory.net/getting-started/) - At one of the VA forums I moderate a new VA asked how to get started and stop procrastinating? The following is my answer to her and all of those who are seeking to get started in the Virtual Assistant industry. Anything worth achieving isn't easy but it is worth the effort. There are things - [Setting Rates For My VA Practice](https://www.vadirectory.net/setting-rates-for-my-va-practice/) - One of the topics that raises its head from time to time on various VA forums is how to set rates. I've seen rates discussed ranging from $7USD per hour right through to $50USD or more per hour. Part of the variation in costs will relate to VAs being in many different geographic locations and - [Putting The Word Out There](https://www.vadirectory.net/putting-the-word-out-there/) - At this time of year people are naturally looking to see what changes they will make for the New Year. I often notice an influx of new people entering the Virtual Assistant industry and one of the things they do is start sending messages to the VA forums they've joined that they're open for business - [Seeking Advice in the Right Places](https://www.vadirectory.net/seeking-advice-in-the-right-places/) - Frequently I see new and experienced VAs seeking advice at the forums for things that probably should be obtained elsewhere. In particular, advice that needs to be sought from Accountants - the VA's accountant. And if they don't have one, they better do something about that very quickly. Discussions regarding the type of business to - [College Graduate or Experienced PA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/college-graduate-or-experienced-pa/) - Saw a post at WebsitePublisher.net about someone who is seeking to use a VA. But the guy has got it wrong - he's seeking college graduates who just don't have the required experience he requires. I followed through to his blog and found a post there where his VA has written to him asking if - [So, you want to be a Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/so-you-want-to-be-a-virtual-assistant/) - The end of a year and the start of a new one will often lead people to think about what they want to do for the next 365 days, or in this case, 366 days with a leap year in 2008. It's at this time of year that I hear from many who would like - [New Year's Resolutions or Goals?](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-years-resolutions-or-goals/) - Do you set New Year's Resolutions? I found that often the resolution wouldn't have enough meaning for me and would get forgotten in the busy-ness of life. But some years ago I got the idea to start setting goals for the year - part of ensuring my business plan would get reviewed and actioned. I - [Announcing a new service for the Virtual Assistant Community](https://www.vadirectory.net/announcing-a-new-service-for-the-virtual-assistant-community/) - A new resource for the Virtual Assistant industry. I’m putting together something along the lines of SpeakerNetNews. If you’ve ever seen it, it is a newsletter sent out weekly to the public speaking community worldwide and speakers get to suggest items, tips, products, services that they’ve found useful in their business and want to share - [What do you think of when you hear....?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-do-you-think-of-when-you-hear/) - Virtual Assistant or VA? What does that term conjour up for you? I ask this because my team and I were discussing the recent posts by a couple of business operators who had been promoting the use of admin and secretarial support through sites such as elance. Both these particular people know our industry and - [Advice on becoming a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/advice-on-becoming-a-va/) - I recently received an email from a woman who is thinking about become a Virtual Assistant. She'd tried her hand at a couple of businesses and had found it hard going and then was offered a good job and took it. Much later she discovered the VA industry and wished she'd known about it before. - [Australian of the Year Award 2008 Nominee](https://www.vadirectory.net/australian-of-the-year-award-2008-nominee/) - I got a big surprise when I received my mail yesterday morning. A letter from the National Australia Day Council congratulating me on my nomination for an award this year and a certificate to mark the occasion. What an honour. I had no idea I'd been nominated and I spent the day re-reading the letter - [Professional Virtual Assistants?](https://www.vadirectory.net/professional-virtual-assistants/) - I had an interesting email conversation with a colleague recently about the promotion of admin support (virtual assistants) via Elance. I wanted to know why he wasn't promoting the use of Virtual Assistants instead through other sources? This is also a follow on from my post "What Do You Think Of When You Hear...?" His - [Responding to Requests from Clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/responding-to-requests-from-clients/) - When you respond to Job Requests or Requests for Proposals via the different VA networks do you send your CV? Because VAs are business owners and not employees, the general consensus is 'no' - we're not applying for a job with an employer, we're responding to a request for help with a client's business. So, - [New Look Office](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-look-office/) - I've been hankering for a new desk and shelves for quite sometime. For a couple of years I'd been collecting photos of the types of desks I was interested in and had them sitting on my document holder. I'd look in Officeworks whenever they had specials but just couldn't find what I was looking for, - [Looking for cheap or free...](https://www.vadirectory.net/looking-for-cheap-or-free/) - On various VA forums I often see (newer) VAs seeking services for use in their business that are cheap or free. Whilst there are programs and services out there that don't cost a great deal to obtain, the reality is that a lot of what you source for your business is going to cost you - [A 4-Hour Work Week Experiment](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-4-hour-work-week-experiment/) - I came across an article a few weeks ago at SBInformer about someone who had read Tim Ferriss' book and he thought he'd try it out and get a VA of his own. Trouble with this is the majority of people who read this book don't do the research - they just read the book - [Going on leave?](https://www.vadirectory.net/going-on-leave/) - The VA I mean. Even we need to make preparations for looking after our businesses when we take some time off. So here are some suggestions to help you plan your break. Notify your clients at least a month out, earlier if possible, so they can get any important items to you, or so you - [Time to Work ON and IN Your Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/time-to-work-on-and-in-your-business/) - If you've been to any time management courses or seminars, or have experienced business coaching, you'll know that it's important to set aside time to work ON your business as opposed to working IN your business. When you first start out you probably spend 95% of your time working on your business, making plans, developing - [Tips for Working with a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tips-for-working-with-a-va/) - There is an interesting discussion going on at ZenHabits.net about using a VA and the differences between using a professional, versus someone who doesn't have the same experience or skills and therefore charges cheaper. If you're interested in joining in, why not go pay a visit? I recently joined a new yahoogroups forum (do I - [Getting Started as a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/getting-started-as-a-va/) - I recently had a lady write to me to ask about how I got started. She'd read that I started out doing word processing and data entry and did I go do a course or did I already know how to do those things? She was wondering what training she might need to do and - [Responding to client enquiries](https://www.vadirectory.net/responding-to-client-enquiries/) - One of the forums I belong to has had a great discussion on response times for client enquiries. This is a good topic for all to have a think about. I know that I often get clients contacting me saying they had rung someone or emailed someone before me and had had no response. There - [Ready To Share Your Expertise?](https://www.vadirectory.net/ready-to-share-your-expertise/) - IF YOU ARE A MEMBER OF A VA FORUM and not seen the following promoted, please share it with your members: Are you ready to share your expertise with your fellow VAs located around the globe? Then don't miss this opportunity to present at the upcoming Online International Virtual Assistants Convention, scheduled Thursday, May 15 - [Do I Have To Do Any Cold Calling?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-i-have-to-do-any-cold-calling/) - I recently had a new VA contact me, asking for advice about cold calling. She was quite nervous about it and whilst she could psych herself up at night and write out scripts, she just couldn't get herself to follow through the following day. So she contacted me for advice. This is my response: Hi, - [Top Blog!](https://www.vadirectory.net/top-blog/) - For over a year now, possibly longer, I've been on the Top 100 Aussie Blogs list - a goal I set for myself in 2005 when I first started blogging. I am currently number 60 on the list. Well, I applied for a listing in the Top 50 Aussie women bloggers as I knew my - [Back Up Support Strategies](https://www.vadirectory.net/back-up-support-strategies/) - This was in my recent ACS Newsletter but thought the information relevant here also. When VAs are on leave, have emergencies, or whatever, there are other VAs they can seek support from to keep things going. A client of mine and I were talking recently about backup support, particularly for when I'm not around. I've - [Barefoot Executive Summit and Other Shows](https://www.vadirectory.net/barefoot-executive-summit-and-other-shows/) - I've been invited to speak at the forthcoming Barefoot Executive Summit. In fact, over the past month I've done a number of Teleseminars for US audiences and recorded two interviews for a Radio Show in the US. I have set a goal to obtain speaking engagements (in the flesh) in the US for this year - [VA Network News](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-network-news/) - At the beginning of January I announced a new community service for the VA industry. I am thrilled to say that service is now in operation and it is called VANetwork News. The plan is that a weekly newsletter will go out to those interested in the VA industry. At this stage the newsletter will - [7 Weird Things About Me](https://www.vadirectory.net/7-weird-things-about-me/) - I contemplated putting this on one of my other blogs but it seems this is a meme that's been passed from VA to VA so in keeping with that, here it is. I got tagged by Terry Green at MyFastType.com. Thanks Terry! Before I get started, here are the rules: 1. Link to the person’s - [How Are Your Skills Today?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-are-your-skills-today/) - When you first set up your VA business, hopefully you look at your existing skills and choose to only offer services that match your skills and abilities. I do often see new, and some not so new, VAs asking at forums about offering services they know nothing about. It's quite obvious otherwise they wouldn't be - [Looking at Loose and Lose](https://www.vadirectory.net/looking-at-loose-and-lose/) - I get rather frustrated when I see regular bloggers, or VAs chatting on forums, using the wrong word or spelling incorrectly. Particularly those who otherwise have great writing skills. Granted there are different spellings for words depending on what country you live in and which version of English you use. And I was beginning to - [Problems with your webhosting?](https://www.vadirectory.net/problems-with-your-webhosting/) - Several members of my VA team are experiencing problems with the webhost they’ve been using and their websites and email have been down for several days now. This is a real problem for anyone who runs their business online. In fact when I research this particular company online there are a heap of warning messages - [OH&S Applies In The Home Office Too!](https://www.vadirectory.net/ohs-applies-in-the-home-office-too/) - Have you thought about Occupational Health & Safety in your home office? It might only be you in the office but safety is still important. Do you have leads running across the floor or showing at the back of a desk that is out in the open? Do you have young children or pets that - [Meeting with a client face-to-face](https://www.vadirectory.net/meeting-with-a-client-face-to-face/) - This topic was raised in my forum just recently and several team members came forward with an outline of what they'd done in the past. It is important to protect ourselves whenever in the process of physically meeting a new client for the first time. After all, in many cases, they are complete strangers to - [Providing Website Support to Clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/providing-website-support-to-clients/) - I did a post sometime ago about VAs whose websites had been copied. Today I want to discuss the other side - creating websites for clients. Recently I had a client send me a whole lot of text for a website I am putting together for her. I copied and pasted the text into the - [Interviewed by Stan the Man!](https://www.vadirectory.net/interviewed-by-stan-the-man/) - I recently had the privilege of being interviewed by Stan Relihan of The Connections Show on the Podcast Network. Those of you in LinkedIn will know him as Australia's most connected man. Stan has a great sense of humour and I've enjoyed getting to know him over several months now. So I was delighted when - [Developing a Tag Line for Your Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/developing-a-tag-line-for-your-business/) - Recently at a VA forum we were discussing developing taglines for your business. There is a fantastic book called 'Seven Second Marketing' written by Ivan Misner who is the founder of BNI. It's about how to use memory hooks or how to make you instantly stand out in a crowd. My own 'memory hook' really - [Benefit of Belonging to a Virtual Assistant Network](https://www.vadirectory.net/benefit-of-belonging-to-a-virtual-assistant-network/) - Some of the VA Networks have Requests for Proposal or Job Leads sent in by clients or other VAs. On a recent forum discussion a new VA was asking about getting jobs that paid higher than $10 an hour. She knew that it was possible but all the jobs she looked at was paying $10 - [What Does Your Email Address Say About You?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-does-your-email-address-say-about-you/) - Saw a great message in a forum last week. It was a sample of email addresses and what they say about the sender. It backs up my own thoughts about email. There is a place for 'cute' and 'silly' email addresses but when you are operating a business and participating in business forums, it's time - [Keeping a Live Database](https://www.vadirectory.net/keeping-a-live-database/) - One of the services I provide to clients is the maintenance of their databases. Entering business cards and new contacts, updating contact details, and removing bounced addresses. Databases can get very messy at the best of times. There are always people changing jobs, shifting house, changing their lives and changing email addresses - it would - [Assumption Proves Professionalism Required](https://www.vadirectory.net/assumption-proves-professionalism-required/) - I received an email last week from a gentleman who was enquiring what a VA could do? I made the assumption that he was looking for someone to provide him support and told him the following: Basically we're like a Personal Assistant, except we operate Virtually - so instead of in your office, we work - [Be Careful What You Offer On Your Site](https://www.vadirectory.net/be-careful-what-you-offer-on-your-site/) - A VA posted a question over the weekend about a service (web design) a client asked her to provide. She wasn't sure how to go about doing it and asked at the forum. This is my response to her: It is important we only take on work we are equipped for and in that regard, - [Free Training To Become a Virtual Assistant...](https://www.vadirectory.net/free-training-to-become-a-virtual-assistant/) - ... were the words that greeted me in one of my web stats. I frequently check my stats to see where people are coming from and how they find me. That includes searches made on search engines. Are we truly in an age where people think they can get everything free or as much as - [Looking For Work Online - A Message For New VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/looking-for-work-online-a-message-for-new-vas/) - I received a poorly written email a couple of days ago from a young person seeking to join my team. I wrote back to them saying I did not believe they had read my website and that their email demonstrated a lack of ability in being able to type properly and that our clients would - [Supporting the Client](https://www.vadirectory.net/supporting-the-client/) - Through my years as a VA I've had lots of wonderful opportunities and have learnt lots of new skills in the process. Often a client asking me to investigate something can lead to a new service I start providing - it's expanded my horizons. But there are times when we (VAs) need to know when - [Who Are You Learning From?](https://www.vadirectory.net/who-are-you-learning-from/) - I saw an article in the EzineQueen's newsletter today which I want to share here because it's something that has concerned me too. In my case it's about Virtual Assistant Coaching & Training. I see many offering coaching and training and they've only been in the industry themselves for 5 mins - or so it - [Shifting Your Mindset](https://www.vadirectory.net/shifting-your-mindset/) - On so many of the forums I see new VAs wanting to get their businesses up and running as quickly as possible. And on these same forums I see promotions for this course, or that event, or lists to sign up with and so on. When we are in the corporate world we are so - [VAs Canvassing For Work](https://www.vadirectory.net/vas-canvassing-for-work/) - I get concerned when I learn that VAs are seeking work in areas that might not really be the right source for them. What am I talking about? One of my forum members advised that a new VA was contacting senior VAs from the forum canvassing for work. I suppose I can understand their mindset - [My Anniversary but I have a Gift For You](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-anniversary-but-i-have-a-gift-for-you/) - Today (24th March) marks the 14th anniversary of my business "A Clayton's Secretary". I have no idea where that time has gone. In some ways it just feels like last year I got started but when I look at all of my achievements, and some failings too, I can see I've come a long way - [More Anniversary gifts - I'm in a generous mood](https://www.vadirectory.net/im-in-a-generous-mood/) - Readers will know that this week marks the 14th anniversary of my Virtual Assistant business. And a couple of days ago I announced that 6 of my readers will receive a free printed copy of one of my books. Well, I decided that wasn't enough and I thought it would be good if I gifted - [Are you a subscriber?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-a-subscriber/) - Don't forget that this week I'm celebrating my 14th anniversary in business as a Virtual Assistant. If you're not yet a subscriber to my blog you could be missing out on gifts! All you have to do is enter your email address into the subscription box on the left of my blog. I'll be checking - [My Anniversary Week - one more gift](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-anniversary-week-one-more-gift/) - I thought it would be good to finish off this week of anniversary posts with one more gift from me. Some of you will be aware that I also provide web hosting services. This grew out of a client's need for support a few years ago - the host I was using at the time - [Virtual Assistant Giveaways](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-giveaways/) - If you've been watching my blog this past week you'll have read that I'm celebrating 14 years in business. But if you are reading this post via Google Alert or other means, you may have missed the excitement! I have gifts for subscribers to my blog - you have till 31st March to subscribe. I'll - [Last chance giveaways for Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/last-chance-giveaways-for-virtual-assistants/) - Today marks the last day for my Virtual Assistant Giveaways spree to celebrate 14 years in business. There have been offers of books, web hosting and VA Coaching. This applies to VAs in any country so don't make the mistake of thinking you are not eligible. If you are operating as a Virtual Assistant, or - [The lucky winners of my anniversary giveaway](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-lucky-winners-of-my-anniversary-giveaway/) - Well, just what you've been waiting for. Here are the list of winners for the 14th anniversary giveaway of last week. I don't have names for most, just email addresses so if the owners would like to contact me via email with their postal addresses I'll post the book of their choice (from my bookshop) - [Transcriptions - Get all the details I](https://www.vadirectory.net/transcriptions-get-all-the-details-i/) - My next post will talk about getting all the details about the required format of a typed transcription but what about receiving the job in the first place? I often get people filling out a job request on my site or phoning me to find out about the cost of getting a transcription done. However - [Transcriptions - Get all the details II](https://www.vadirectory.net/transcriptions-get-all-the-details-ii/) - When starting out it's often easy to get so excited when a new client comes along, that we forget to ask for all the information. Sometimes it's simply a case of not knowing what information we need - till we start the job, or perhaps until it's delivered, assumed finished. A discussion recently on my - [What Dictionary Are You Using?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-dictionary-are-you-using/) - I saw a post recently by someone online who was discussing the differences in the meaning and spelling of a particular word - one of the variations had an 'e' on the end. They were saying the two words had two different meanings and I would have loved to leave a comment but the blog - [How often are you backing up?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-often-are-you-backing-up/) - Having a discussion with some writers at a forum recently it became obvious that many were not backing up their computers at all, or their websites online. Consequently if they got a virus that affected their computer and put it out of action, they ran the risk of losing all of their material and/or not - [What's in a name?](https://www.vadirectory.net/whats-in-a-name-2/) - I really feel for the new Virtual Assistant as many are struggling to develop an identity, and with that, a name for their businesses so that they can be seen as inviduals and not copycats. But sometimes I think they have got it a bit confused or in the wrong order. A business name does - [National Secretaries Day - when is it exactly?](https://www.vadirectory.net/national-secretaries-day-when-is-it-exactly/) - Around the world this day has different names: Administrative Professionals Day National Secretaries Day National Admin Professionals Day National Professional Admin Officers Day and many others. And it has different dates around the world too. In Australia radio stations and florists often get it mixed up, but this isn't entirely their fault. The calendar publishers - [The Tale of Two Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-tale-of-two-assistants/) - Saw an interesting post a little while ago with the title 'The Tale of Two Assistants'. It was apparently about an 'actual assistant' and a 'virtual assistant'. I wasn't sure what they meant exactly by the 'actual assistant' as it seems that the 'actual assistant' had other clients anyway, so it would seem they were - [Developing a niche in the Virtual Assistant world](https://www.vadirectory.net/developing-a-niche-in-the-virtual-assistant-world/) - I often see VAs talking about developing a niche for their practice. This is a good line of thought, however it's important to consider that it could be awhile before you even know what your niche is. Some know straight away and others have no idea. I was in the latter category when I started - [If my Virtual Assistant happens to quit...](https://www.vadirectory.net/if-my-virtual-assistant-happens-to-quit/) - I've noticed a very disturbing trend on the web lately via various blog posts about the Virtual Assistant industry. It seems there are many business owners out there in fear of losing their VAs because they might up and quit or something else might happen. It seems that many look at having a VA for - [Is your website written for an international audience?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-your-website-written-for-an-international-audience/) - A recent discussion at a LinkedIn forum I belong to highlighted the use of country codes when listing phone numbers in emails and on business websites. It was an interesting discussion and what was brought to light was the fact that many people in the US (at least on this forum of 8,000+ people) just - [A Client Surprise](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-client-surprise/) - Some people have 'wordless Wednesdays' on their blogs and just post a photo. Well, I have a photo to post and it's Tuesday and I won't be wordless about it either. I want you to drink in this beautiful sight. The doorbell rang and I thought it was a client who was overdue and I - [Message for my subscribers](https://www.vadirectory.net/message-for-my-subscribers/) - Every blogger loves to have readers and subscribers and I really do appreciate you all. But please, if you subscribe, do not do it with an address that has to have an autoresponder attached to it. By that I mean, consider having a separate address for subscriptions to blogs, newsletters, listservs and forums, and so - [OIVAC Countdown is on!](https://www.vadirectory.net/oivac-countdown-is-on/) - Those who have been in the Virtual Assistant industry for sometime will be aware of our annual Online International Virtual Assistants Convention run in May each year. This event runs for 3 days and is entirely online and virtual. We have over 30 speakers from around 7 countries speaking on all sorts of topics and - [Do you want to succeed as a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-want-to-succeed-as-a-va/) - You probably look at many VA businesses and wonder how it is that some succeed and really develop and others seem to struggle to find clients and get the work. What is the difference? A number of things - but one of the major ones would be networking - constantly. Stats show that 80% of - [Software for client support](https://www.vadirectory.net/software-for-client-support/) - The majority of VAs are using Microsoft software for servicing their clients. The core product used is the Microsoft Office software and this works really well for a large number of jobs to be carried out for clients. But when Microsoft updated their software to the 2007 package it actually meant that earlier versions could - [Keep your bookkeeping up to date!](https://www.vadirectory.net/keep-your-bookkeeping-up-to-date/) - I try to make it a rule to do my bookkeeping on a weekly basis. By that I mean statement reconciliations, filing of papers, etc - I do the data entry daily as I complete jobs for clients. However, sometimes I get behind with the busy-ness of life, and wouldn't you know it, there are - [What The Client Needs To Know...](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-the-client-needs-to-know/) - From the very start of my business in 1994 I determined that I would not let my family be used as an excuse for not getting things done. I came from the corporate world and at that stage home-based workers were seen as 'backyard operators' or 'shonky dealers'. I knew of people who ran legitimate - [Friday Finds](https://www.vadirectory.net/friday-finds/) - Now that I'm using Google Reader I've come across a number of blogs with great hints and tips for writing, blogging and things relating to business. So, each Friday I'm going to send you some of the best I've seen during the week! Here's my selection for this week! Interview at Equus - you have - [Your Home Business Magazine out today!](https://www.vadirectory.net/your-home-business-magazine-out-today/) - I was recently interviewed for a brand new magazine launching this month in Australia. This magazine is about profiling businesses that have been around for sometime and are successful, rather than focusing on start-ups. The first issue is out today and if you live in Australia you should be able to get a copy at - [Number 4 Mistake New VAs Make](https://www.vadirectory.net/number-4-mistake-new-vas-make/) - So far we've looked at treating your business as a business and having the right mindset; setting rates that are too low; and recognising that clients can be local, they don't have to be totally virtual. This 4th mistake relates to the third one in a way. Many new VAs, particularly those from countries that - [Number 4 Mistake Some VAs Make cont.](https://www.vadirectory.net/number-4-mistake-some-vas-make-cont/) - I had written about who your target client base should really be and Kylee had commented about volunteering to get experience. This is something I've often written about in the past and I'm glad Kylee raised it. As business owners to learn new skills and software packages there are costs incurred over and above the - [The Number 5 Mistake That VAs Make](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-number-5-mistake-that-vas-make/) - Offering services that they have no experience in or offering too many services. Many VAs, particularly newer ones, get carried away by the possibilities of what they can offer clients, not realising that if they cannot provide quality service, they not only do themselves a disservice but the whole industry as well. It's important you - [Number 6 Mistake VAs Make](https://www.vadirectory.net/number-6-mistake-vas-make/) - Staying in our comfort zone. We need to be flexible and stretch and bend if we want our businesses to grow. Technology - where would this industry be without it? And yet we all get comfortable and set in out ways and get to a point where we feel we don't want to learn anything - [Are you Twittering yet?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-twittering-yet/) - If not, then you could be missing out on a potential client base. I've had a Twitter account for sometime now and it really took me sometime to understand what it is about. But now I'm hooked! I couldn't understand what people were doing or going on about and there are some mundane things there. - [Mistakes VAs Make](https://www.vadirectory.net/mistakes-vas-make/) - I hope you like the series I've been doing on the mistakes VAs make in operating their businesses. I've been getting great feedback - both here at the blog and via email from various people and the list has been growing as I've been thinking about it when away from my office and doing other - [Number 7 Mistake VAs Make](https://www.vadirectory.net/no-7-mistake-vas-make/) - Not keeping the client in the picture. Some clients will get very anxious if they don't hear from you within an expected time frame and will either go off and find someone else to help them or get very annoyed when they do connect with you. Always a good idea to ask what the time - [How much should I charge?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-much-should-i-charge/) - Regularly on the VA forums, and sometimes via direct email, I see this question from new VAs. They have worked out what services they are going to provide, have begun seeking ways to network and find new clients but then when they get asked 'how much?' they get stuck. That's ok, we've all been there - [Would you like to attend my book launch?](https://www.vadirectory.net/would-you-like-to-attend-my-book-launch/) - If you are in Melbourne on Wednesday evening this week you could come along! Wednesday 11th February, @ 6pm. The Foyer, Bayside Church, Argus Street, Cheltenham (Mel78:C12). Opening by Rob Buckingham who wrote the Foreword with an appearance by fellow author Charles Widdowson (of 'Our Favourite Hymns') from Radio LightFM. Bookings essential. Please fill out - [1,000th Member Joins the ACS Team!](https://www.vadirectory.net/1000th-member-joins-the-acs-team/) - Well, it finally happened, our 1000th member has joined the ACS team! I can't reveal who they are yet, until they've received and acknowledged the notification. But just to remind you what they will receive. The gifts will be their choice of the following items (and they may choose more than one item - if - [No. 8 Mistake VAs Make](https://www.vadirectory.net/no-8-mistake-vas-make/) - Continuing on in our recent series... Using free accounts such as hotmail, yahoo, etc for their email address. Domains are very cheap to purchase and even if you don't yet have your own website, there is no reason why you can't have your own domain (to reflect your name or your business name) for your - [Looking for a standard rate...](https://www.vadirectory.net/looking-for-a-standard-rate/) - I often get phone calls from prospective clients or emails from new VAs asking what the 'standard rate' is for carrying out particular jobs. I do understand their question but they haven't really thought about what they're asking. When you're buying a product such as a book, software or other things then there are often - [Has the spammer done me a favour?](https://www.vadirectory.net/has-the-spammer-done-me-a-favour/) - I noticed this afternoon that someone has chosen to use my old email address to spam people. I got the first hint when a bounce back came to me saying it was stuck in a loop - it was addressed to my old address. Checking my spam filter shows there are heaps of returned messages - [Victorian Bush Fires and the Need for Tourism](https://www.vadirectory.net/victorian-bush-fires-and-the-need-for-tourism/) - Last year I wrote about two different situations where the VA community grouped together to help one of its own. One was when a VA shared on her challenges and others rallied round to help her. The other was when I, myself, was going through a family tragedy and so many once again, rallied round - [The trouble with not being...](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-trouble-with-not-being/) - The trouble with not being at full capacity for awhile means eventually you have to catch up! 44 minutes ago ...at full capacity for awhile means eventually you have to catch up. It's been a long almost 5 months. 5 months of coping after losing a family member. 5 months of wondering why, thinking 'if - [Everyone wants to be a transcriptionist!](https://www.vadirectory.net/everyone-wants-to-be-a-transcriptionist/) - Over the past few months we've seen an increasing number of new virtual assistants coming to join our chat forum and many of them start asking about transcription work - they want to know about the software to use, how much to charge, and how can they get experience? I wonder what the fascination is - [I'm a new Virtual Assistant, do I need a website?](https://www.vadirectory.net/im-a-new-virtual-assistant-do-i-need-a-website/) - This was a question posted at a VA forum very recently and it is something often asked by those entering our industry. She wanted to know if creating a flyer for now would do as she didn't want to spend money on a website till she had work coming in. What did I advise them? - [Client Communication Styles](https://www.vadirectory.net/client-communication-styles/) - Over the years as my business has developed I find myself leaning more and more towards email communication and less towards phone communication. Why? Because I find that written communication helps define what needs to be done and what a client's plans are. It helps create a task list for me and I can keep - [Countdown to FoVA](https://www.vadirectory.net/countdown-to-fova/) - If you visit my blog you will have noticed the big yellow post it note on the right with the countdown information and link to the Forum on Virtual Assistance (FoVA) taking place 3-7 June in Canada this year. But if you read my blog via RSS you will have missed seeing that, so I - [Spend your govt bonus on an Aussie VA!](https://www.vadirectory.net/spend-your-govt-bonus-on-an-aussie-va/) - Watching the news on TV there was an article about the Australian Govt bonus that will be soon made available to those eligible in Australia. They were recommending that in order to help boost the Australian economy the bonus should be spent on services in Australia, rather than pay existing bills or purchase goods where - [15 years in business!](https://www.vadirectory.net/15-years-in-business/) - I was looking at my calendar and realised that the 15th anniversary of my business is just over a week away. 24th March marks the day I registered my business in 1994 - 15 years ago. I can't believe how fast that time has flown. I know that many are still learning that our industry - [I'm sick, should I tell my clients?](https://www.vadirectory.net/im-sick-should-i-tell-my-clients/) - Interesting discussion arose recently on one of the VA forums and I thought I'd bring the topic here. How do you handle things if you're not well and have client work to be done? I guess the answer really depends on the timing for that work and the relationship you have with your clients. Also, - [Taking on a new client](https://www.vadirectory.net/taking-on-a-new-client/) - I regularly have clients contacting me via my website asking for a Virtual Assistant to support them. The work is quite wide and varied, with some jobs being one-offs and others being short- or long-term commitments. Most of the time I introduce the client to a Virtual Assistant team member and I don't hear from - [6 Degrees of Separation... or less](https://www.vadirectory.net/6-degrees-of-separation-or-less/) - I have a story I tell at conferences and other events when speaking about how my business became international. I talk about my first international client - a lawyer who lived in Picardy, France in 1997. Imagine my surprise at a recent event when a gentleman with a South African accent came up to me - [Is there room for me in your network?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-there-room-for-me-in-your-network/) - I recently met a copywriter at a business breakfast I was speaking at and she was keen to talk to me after the event. She was looking for more ways to get clients and was wondering if I accepted copywriters into my Virtual Assistant network. I told her I would send her some suggestions that - [Hobbies - do you have one?](https://www.vadirectory.net/hobbies-do-you-have-one/) - I was thinking about a client of mine today and recent conversations we've had. I worry that their focus is always on business and nothing else. Even on weekends. I know that many who think they know me probably think that's all I have on my mind too, but the reality is that while I - [What were you doing 15 years ago today?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-were-you-doing-15-years-ago-today/) - It was 24th March 1994 and I had been attending the National Secretaries Day breakfast in the city. After the breakfast I headed for the Govt Dept so I could register the business name I'd decided on for my brand new business. I was so excited about my business name but didn't want to tell - [Networking for business](https://www.vadirectory.net/networking-for-business/) - On one of the forums I participate a member was asking how to market their VA business and get work. I joined in the conversation and highlighted the importance of networking. My response is below. Networking is a key to developing business and a big part of it. I believe you should be networking both - [Networking is not 'set and forget'](https://www.vadirectory.net/networking-is-not-set-and-forget/) - A recent conversation with a client set me thinking. In fact I'd had a similar discussion with another client not much earlier. They both wanted accounts set up at various social networking tools such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc and have everything automated (rss feed from blogs, automatic responses, etc) so that they could literally - [The Virtual Assistant Industry is booming!](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-virtual-assistant-industry-is-booming/) - Those who participate in the VA forums will know that there's been a steady (and fast) increase of new VAs joining our ranks. I believe this is partly because our industry has well and truly come of age and is easily noticeable but also because of our current global economic situation. People need to find - [Friday Finds](https://www.vadirectory.net/friday-findings/) - I haven't done one of these posts for quite sometime - so I thought I'd show you some of my latest finds on Google Reader! This one is mine - I write a number of blogs http://soho-life.com/blog/ Democratizing Twitter My Blogging Journey (well, not mine but that of the author of this post) Were you - [English and the VA world](https://www.vadirectory.net/english-and-the-va-world/) - We periodically have wonderful discussions on the forums relating to the spelling and use of English wording. In fact it often provides a constant source of mirth when we discover that a word can mean something completely different in another English speaking country. How does that happen? Whilst most of the conversations are full of - [No. 9 Mistake VAs Make](https://www.vadirectory.net/no-9-mistake-vas-make/) - Recently I became aware of a challenge a VA was having and it is something I've come across before but had forgotten about it. It's an ideal post for this category. Be clear about your quotes/rates when discussing a job with a client. This VA had quoted a rate which the client accepted but there - [A time for getting together](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-time-for-getting-together/) - The Virtual Assistant industry has a number of events coming up over the next couple of months. IVAA has its Summit coming up this month, followed closely by OIVAC in May and then FoVA in June. Both IVAA Summit and FoVA are onsite events whereas OIVAC is purely virtual - you can attend from your - [Email etiquette and autoresponders](https://www.vadirectory.net/email-etiquette-and-autoresponders/) - As a Virtual Assistant I manage a number of autoresponders, both for my own business and that of my clients, mainly through shoppingcart services such as 1shoppingcart.com. What amazes me is the number of recipients of these emails who don't realise that they can update their email address or remove their addresses simply by clicking - [What you feed grows, what you starve dies](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-you-feed-grows-what-you-starve-dies/) - I was just climbing out of my car after visiting my business coach when I heard the final sentence of something on the radio and it caught my attention. The guy was saying 'remember, what you feed grows, what you starve dies'. This is such a profound statement and hit me straight away. It was - [Getting back to basics - Becoming a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/getting-back-to-basics/) - I've seen many posts recently via Twitter and forums where people are asking about how to become a Virtual Assistant. As I haven't written on that for awhile I thought I'd give an update here. Providing you have good computer skills and experience in using the web for sharing files, downloading and receiving information and - [Honing new skills](https://www.vadirectory.net/honing-new-skills/) - Many VAs, particularly those new to the industry, are so keen to get clients that there are times when they will accept a job only to find they really don't have the skillset or experience to carry out the role. They then end up in a quandary - do they tell the client or try - [All work and no play...](https://www.vadirectory.net/all-work-and-no-play/) - ... makes Jack (or Jill) a dull boy (girl). Or so the saying goes. I'm one who has been obsessed with my work - I love being a Virtual Assistant and I love being at my computer and in my office. I look forward to being in the office every single day - even after - [Use the 'squeaky wheel' principle](https://www.vadirectory.net/use-the-squeaky-wheel-principle/) - I often get asked by VAs what they should do if they've submitted a proposal to a client's request and a few days have passed and they've heard nothing further. I always advise them to use the 'squeaky wheel' principle. What do you do when you have a squeaky wheel? You pay attention to it. - [VA Networks - a ready resource](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-networks-a-ready-resource/) - When I was first growing my VA Network it soon became obvious to me that I had to find a way to put all the members in touch with each other, without having to pass on email addresses all the time or get them to remember to 'reply all'. It was around that time (late - [OIVAC is just around the corner!](https://www.vadirectory.net/oivac-is-just-around-the-corner/) - Welcome to those guests who have been following the OIVAC blog hopping tour! Seasoned VAs (or those that have been around for longer than 12 months) will know that the Online International Virtual Assistants Convention is gearing up for another fantastic event. I was privileged to be a member of the steering committee for the - [Increased non-billable time](https://www.vadirectory.net/increased-non-billable-time/) - As we hear more about the economic turmoil worldwide there are going to be increased non-billable time for some Virtual Assistant businesses. So what do we do about it? Make it work for us! I'm sure, if you're like me, you'll always have things that have been put aside till you have time for them. - [The countdown is on!](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-countdown-is-on/) - 4 weeks today Graham and I will be winging our way to Canada. It will be a long flight (so we'll be glad to get there) but then we'll have almost 4 weeks visiting in Canada, with the first stop being FoVA09 in Niagara. And then 6 days later we'll head over to Vancouver to - [Virtual Assistants and Twitter](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistants-and-twitter/) - There are quite a number of Virtual Assistants on Twitter now and with it growing groups. One of them focuses on FoVA 2009 and the group is listed as #FoVA09 if you're looking for it. If the link doesn't work try http://twitter.com/#search?q=%23FoVA09 It's amazing how a new networking tool can soon become addictive, if you - [FoVA not far away now](https://www.vadirectory.net/fova-not-far-away-now/) - I can't believe it's around 9 months since I was invited to speak at FoVA. It seemed like such a long way ahead and yet it's now only 3 weeks away. I'll be meeting many well-known names in the Virtual Assistant industry face-to-face which is something I never thought would happen. You never know what's - [Should a Virtual Assistant Network For a Client?](https://www.vadirectory.net/should-a-virtual-assistant-network-for-a-client/) - I saw an interesting article today titled "Take Advantage of Social Networking with a Virtual Assistant" so of course I went and read it straight away. I have very firm ideas about what a VA should and shouldn't do for a client and networking is one of those things I don't believe we should be - [Advertising Advice for Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/advertising-advice-for-virtual-assistants/) - Recently a VA posted a question to a forum I moderate asking for advice about the advertising she had been doing. She listed a number of sites she'd registered with and wanted to know what else she could do. My response to her is below. I see you've joined social networking groups but you haven't - [A great line up for FoVA](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-great-line-up-for-fova/) - Message from Barb who is organising this event: What do these people all have in common? Kathie Thomas Michelle Jamison Jeannine Clontz Mary Lou Ashton Pam Ivey Tawnya Sutherland Yvonne Weld Stacy Brice Dawn Goldberg Danielle Guerin Frances Palaschuk Kristi Pavlik Lauren Pibworth Rob Neilly David Hansen Mitch Solway and me... Barb Lang They are - [Checked your spam filter lately?](https://www.vadirectory.net/checked-your-spam-filter-lately/) - I was concerned recently when I received several emails from a lady who had registered for my VA Trainer course but hadn't heard from me. I had responded to every single email she had sent me but still her emails kept coming, upset that I'd not responded. This concerned me a great deal. There was - [Checked your spam filter lately?](https://www.vadirectory.net/checked-your-spam-filter-lately/) - I was concerned recently when I received several emails from a lady who had registered for my VA Trainer course but hadn't heard from me. I had responded to every single email she had sent me but still her emails kept coming, upset that I'd not responded. This concerned me a great deal. There was - [Virtual Assistant or Employee?](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-or-employee/) - There are other adjectives I can think of but I won't use them here. I saw a post advertising for a Female Virtual Assistant/Content Writer that says, and I quote: You'll be writing about 3-4 250-350 articles per hour based on the keywords I will specify. I am going to expect you work full time - [Women's health and VA work](https://www.vadirectory.net/womens-health-and-va-work/) - One of the members of our VA forum was doing research for a client on women's health issues in the mid-life years and asked for suggestions to be added to the list she'd compiled. Many came back with additional problems and then discussions took place on how old or young each feel and various problems - [Interview with Craig Cannings](https://www.vadirectory.net/interview-with-craig-cannings/) - You have seen several interviews of clients who use Virtual Assistants. This interview is about a man who saw a way to work with Virtual Assistants and assist them in their workplace training. Please tell my readers a bit about who you are and what you do. My name is Craig Cannings and I have - [The Miriam Rose](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-miriam-rose/) - Some of my VA Team have provided their love and support to myself and my family over the past few months, since the loss of our daughter Miriam. The ways they have shown this have blown both my husband and I away and they have been so kind. I had been told sometime ago there - [FoVA 2009](https://www.vadirectory.net/fova-2009/) - It is the evening of 2nd June in Canada and tonight my husband and I met for the first time, some VAs from the US and Canada. Barb Lang, founder of FoVA, coordinated this 2nd annual event and tonight the first comers got together for dinner at Vinnies. Below is a photo of the group - [My first view of Niagara Falls](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-first-view-of-niagara-falls/) - Graham and I wandered around Niagara Falls today and I saw my first view of the Falls and also a squirrel. We had a wonderful time, lovely weather and I took over 300 photos (no surprise there). You can view some of the photos by clicking on the image below. - [What Type of Logo Should You Have for Your Business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-type-of-logo-should-you-have-for-your-business/) - I have guest poster Ben Johnson sharing on the importance of the type of logo for your business. Your logo really is the proverbial "calling card" for your business. A potential customer or client will make that all important first impression many times based on the appearance, style and design of your business logo. Understanding - [Two industry leaders together](https://www.vadirectory.net/two-industry-leaders-together/) - Just thought I'd quickly share with you a photo of myself and Sharon Williams at FoVA09 together. Sharon and I've known each other for many years but up till this week had never met face-to-face so it was a joy to meet her and have my photo taken with her. She and I, and other - [Pardon my absence but I'm on leave...](https://www.vadirectory.net/pardon-my-absence-but-im-on-leave/) - I will go back to posting regularly in July but for this month I'm now well and truly on holidays, in beautiful Canada. It began with the FoVA conference in Niagara Falls in the first week of this month but then Graham and I joined a tour to explore Canada on the west coast. We're - [I'm back - did you miss me?](https://www.vadirectory.net/im-back-did-you-miss-me/) - Hi everyone, I'm getting back into things. Graham has returned to work this morning (although he was reluctant :-D) and I'm spending the rest of this month just sorting through emails, accounts, updating myself on everything and then back with clients from 1st July. Thank you to those team members who supported my clients in - [Invoicing the client](https://www.vadirectory.net/invoicing-the-client/) - How do you invoice your client and how much information do you give? I have been using Quickbooks for many years and find that works well for me. Some use MYOB or other bookkeeping systems. Some use Paypal. Whatever system you use I feel it's important to itemise your invoice to the client so they - [Mail delivery failed: returning message to sender](https://www.vadirectory.net/mail-delivery-failed-returning-message-to-sender/) - 550 Mailbox quota exceeded Is this something you're in danger of sending to prospective clients and others who email you? This is a message I periodically get faced with when emailing people and it makes me wonder how they run their business online if people cannot contact them because their mailbox is full. If you - [VATrainer Student Interview](https://www.vadirectory.net/vatrainer-student-interview/) - I thought I would introduce you to some of those who have undertaken my VATrainer course to become Virtual Assistants and run their own businesses. This is an online course that runs over a 10 week period and has been available online for a couple of years now. I have been pleased to see the - [Keeping your email address updated](https://www.vadirectory.net/keeping-your-email-address-updated/) - Have you changed your email address lately? Did you notify those whose lists you belong to? I manage a network of Virtual Assistants and periodically I'll send out an email to the list and get many bounce backs. There is considerable time spent tracking down each individual, either ringing or faxing them, or finding an - [Virtual Assistants - Plan Your Work For Them](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistants-plan-your-work-for-them/) - As more business owners become aware of the world of Virtual Assistants and realise the potential for getting a wide range of things to be done, there is also the potential for getting confused about who a VA is and what they should be doing for a client. Many clients often realise at the last - [VATrainer Student Interview II](https://www.vadirectory.net/vatrainer-student-interview-ii/) - I'm delighted to introduce to you Kylie Short who was one of my first students. 1. What made you decide to take the VATrainer.com course and how did you find it? I decided to take the VATrainer.com course because of the distinctly *Australian content. I already knew how to set up my business but it - [VATrainer Student Interview III](https://www.vadirectory.net/vatrainer-student-interview-iii/) - My next interview in this series is Christine Myers 1. What made you decide to take the VATrainer.com course and how did you find it? I was working as an Administrative Assistant and my boss decided to retire. Since I was out of a job it was the ideal time to consider going into business - [You get what you pay for](https://www.vadirectory.net/you-get-what-you-pay-for/) - Just been having a conversation with a client. I'm going through several worksheets of a spreadsheet of information they were given for a new mailing list. When I looked at the spreadsheet, whole addresses had been put into one column, not split up into street, suburb, state, postcode, country and on the last worksheet it - [Time Management In An Instant: 60 Ways to Make the Most of Your Day](https://www.vadirectory.net/time-management-in-an-instant-60-ways-to-make-the-most-of-your-day/) - In today’s hurly-burly work environment many business people find it challenging to avoid distraction, stay focused, use their time and energy to maximum benefit, and gain ground on important goals and outcomes. One study by the Families and Work Institute found that one-third of Americans are overworked and more than 50 percent of those surveyed - [Interview with Jan King](https://www.vadirectory.net/interview-with-jan-king/) - Many Virtual Assistants are seeing a relationship between the services they offer and the needs that authors have. There's a direct connection or perfect marriage between the two industries. I am privileged to share with you an interview with Jan King on this topic. 1. What gave you the idea to teach VAs to work - [Reading Minds is not one of my service offerings](https://www.vadirectory.net/reading-minds-is-not-one-of-my-service-offerings/) - Sometimes you have to laugh. I love working with my clients and for the most part, things go along smoothly. But just every now and then a hiccup happens and it is usually because I didn't know the background of something taking place in my client's life at the time. That's when we have to - [Where do I find a Virtual Assistant (VA)?](https://www.vadirectory.net/where-do-i-find-a-virtual-assistant-va/) - I see this request on the web in many places with discussions on forums and articles written on blogs by people who have little knowledge of our industry. They've heard the term or read about it in books but have no idea where to look. I don't know about you but I always think 'Google' - [Listed in 100 More Women Bloggers To Watch](https://www.vadirectory.net/listed-in-100-women-bloggers/) - WE Magazine for Women's has a new list of 100 More Women Bloggers to Watch and I'm thrilled to announce that my photo blog is on that list. I encourage you to visit that list - you'll see some familiar names but also some blogs you didn't know about and will find well worth visiting. - [When someone wants to become a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-someone-wants-to-become-a-virtual-assistant/) - I received an email via my contact form during the week from a lady who wants to become a virtual assistant. Rather than fill out the application form, she wrote to me first as she wasn't sure if she had what it took. Her email was badly typed with misspellings, caps missing, and so on. - [Help is in good hands](https://www.vadirectory.net/help-is-in-good-hands/) - That's the title in today's My Career page 3 article about the Virtual Assistant industry. I was called by the journalist about 3 weeks ago and interviewed about the industry here in Australia. We talked about various influences on the industry and how Tim Ferriss helped highlight the industry to the public at large, particularly - [Can a Virtual Assistant make a good income?](https://www.vadirectory.net/can-a-virtual-assistant-make-a-good-income/) - On the weekend just gone there was an article published in a couple of major Australian newspapers in the My Career section about our industry and based on an interview I had with the journalist. A comment was made on one of the forums I moderate that 'it will take a long time and hard - [What is a Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-is-a-virtual-assistant/) - Interesting question. 10 years ago I would have told you it's a virtual secretary, someone who had left the corporate world and was now working at home and providing secretarial services virtually. However, as with most things, the industry has evolved and today Virtual Assistants provide many different services, depending on their particular skillset. So - [Seeking a VA to support you?](https://www.vadirectory.net/seeking-a-va-to-support-you/) - A recent comment on an older post here has sparked this post. The post related to VAs undercharging their work and a comment was made that it was thought VAs assumed they (the industry this person represented) was making a lot of money and could charge a lot higher. I want to say VAs don't - [Social networking - good or bad?](https://www.vadirectory.net/social-networking-good-or-bad/) - We've recently had a very interesting discussion on the VA forum about the use of photos on websites and that then grew into a discussion on social networking. Is SN good or bad? Is it necessary or time wasting? Does it work? And then recently on LinkedIn a question relating to the same thing was - [Clients Guide to Virtual Assistance](https://www.vadirectory.net/clients-guide-to-virtual-assistance/) - I've written a lot here about how clients can use VAs and even given you case studies to learn from. But I've never really shared why a client might want a VA. Remember that VAs can do your administrative work to keep your business running smoothly. So, here are just a few reasons: You should - [How to use a VA in your business](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-to-use-a-va-in-your-business/) - I get Google Alert daily which lets me know about new articles being published on the topic of Virtual Assistants. How refreshing it was to see today a new article that is clear about how to use a VA and is factual in the information. I particularly liked this paragraph which gave practical advice about - [When the work load is low...](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-the-work-load-is-low/) - ... what do you do? Believe it or not, it has happened to me, just as it has everyone else at some stage. Why does this happen? I believe it's because we get complacent when we are busy and we stop networking, stop marketing and we stop connecting with people. The momentum is hard to - [Virtual Assistants are NOT employees](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistants-are-not-employees/) - It's hard enough educating the public about this. But when those who call themselves virtual assistants or VAs start calling themselves employees too, no wonder the clients get confused! This directly relates to a recent comment I saw on a blog about Virtual Assistants by someone who calls themself a Virtual Assistant. No-one interprets an - [Are you making it complicated?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-making-it-complicated/) - 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 - [Who do you listen to?](https://www.vadirectory.net/who-do-you-listen-to/) - I participate in many forums and see lots of 'advice' being given to newbies in the industry by others who have only been VAs themselves such a short time. Some of that advice is good and helps to demonstrate the journey they, themselves, have been travelling, but I've seen some advice that was ill-founded although - [Do it yourself or...?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-it-yourself-or/) - On the VA forums I often see new VAs asking about whether they should design their own logo or pay someone else to do it, design their own website or pay someone else to do it, and so on. I know they are new and probably not earning much yet but what price is your - [Spelling - doesn't it matter any more?](https://www.vadirectory.net/spelling-doesnt-it-matter-any-more/) - I can't get over the number of VA forums I belong to where members don't appear to check what they've typed before publishing it to the (board) forum. Or make use of the Edit function for corrections. Or, do they think that in a closed community it really doesn't matter? If that's the case, I - [Do I need a business name?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-i-need-a-business-name/) - That's a question I see asked at VA forums often, or a variation on it, asking for suggestions on business names. However, do you really need one? If you don't have a focus, i.e. have no idea what your specific service offerings may be at the start and you're just feeling your way, then a - [Introducing Australian VA Conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/introducing-australian-va-conference/) - I'm thrilled to announce that the Australian Virtual Assistant Conference is going to take place on Friday 12th and Saturday 14th March, 2010 in Melbourne. While it's called The 'Australian' VA Conference it doesn't mean you can't come if you're not Australian. It simply means it is being run in Australia and everyone is invited. - [Has anyone worked with a Virtual Assistant? Part 8](https://www.vadirectory.net/has-anyone-worked-with-a-virtual-assistant-part-8/) - Another in our series of VA client interviews. This time we're delighted to have Camille Valvo of Professional Speaking with us. Camille's VA is a member of the "A Clayton's Secretary" team. Please tell my readers a bit about who you are and what you do. I am unique event insurance as a professional MC, - [Printing still important](https://www.vadirectory.net/printing-still-important/) - In the past few days I've received emails from a couple of VAs who have had computer problems and lost some emails which were important to them. They asked if I could help by resending any emails I'd sent or help locate the person who had contacted them. They did have their data backed up - [Dates - write them in full](https://www.vadirectory.net/dates-write-them-in-full/) - When dealing with people from other countries via email, make sure you spell dates out in full. Instead of putting 1/21 or 12/5 why not put 21st January or 5th December? Or in the case of the second one it could be 12th May, depending on who wrote it and where they live. In some - [Do you have problems with delegation?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-have-problems-with-delegation/) - Marcia Hoeck writes a blog called "Breakthrough Business" and she has a lot of really good common sense articles and information. Her latest post "Are You a Victim of the “Entrepreneurial Curse”?" rang bells for me. It gives several good reasons why Entrepreneurs need to let go and delegate. In other words, outsource the things - [To test or not to test?](https://www.vadirectory.net/to-test-or-not-to-test/) - That is the question. A discussion at one of the VA forums I belong to raised a query about being 'tested' by doing small jobs for free at a site before being accepted as a VA for potential clients. I find that sometimes clients come via my jobleads request form and attempt to do the - [Be specific](https://www.vadirectory.net/be-specific/) - I love the work I do as a Virtual Assistant but often find that client instructions leave a lot to the imagination. As VAs we need to help our clients and educate them in the best way of conveying instructions so that the work we carry out for them is done quickly and efficiently and - [AVAC advancing](https://www.vadirectory.net/avac-advancing/) - The early bird bookings will close mid November for the Australian Virtual Assistant Conference being held in Melbourne in March 2010. We are now starting to release information on speakers engaged for the event and will be adding more very soon. Make sure you don't miss out and get your bookings in now. We'd love - [There's still time!](https://www.vadirectory.net/theres-still-time/) - Are you a new VA and wanting to get your virtual assistant practice up and running in the new year? Have you thought about doing some training to get you moving in the right direction? There is still time before Christmas to sign up with my VA Trainer course. I have been with the industry - [Do you produce a newsletter?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-produce-a-newsletter/) - I do. I have been since the second year of my business. That means I've been producing a newsletter for around 14 years now on a monthly basis. I missed a few months here and there in the early days but it has been monthly for quite some time now. In the early days, it - [Practical Advice for Social Networking](https://www.vadirectory.net/practical-advice-for-social-networking/) - I get a regular enewsletter called Speakernet News. As a Virtual Assistant for Professional Speakers I like to keep abreast of what's happening in their industry. The following came from their most recent newsletter and I sought permission from the author to republish it here. The article makes really good valid points about using Social - [Keep abreast of their industries](https://www.vadirectory.net/keep-abreast-of-their-industries/) - In my last post I mentioned I get a regular enewsletter for the professional speaking industry. I provide virtual assistant support to a number of professional speakers, both here in Australia and in the US. I believe it's really important, as a service provider, to keep abreast of my clients' industries and what is happening - [Email and Forum Etiquette](https://www.vadirectory.net/email-and-forum-etiquette/) - There seems to be an increasing trend of replying to a personal email or forum based email and not include the message being responded to. I find this rather annoying to say the least, not to mention time wasting. Email is still not 100% proof as we all know and if I'm interested in seeing - [How to Use a Virtual Assistant in Your Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-to-use-a-virtual-assistant-in-your-business/) - There have been a number of articles written about this topic on the web over the years, and often by people who have been using a VA. However I feel it's time to add more information from someone inside the industry, rather than from outside the industry. What is a VA? First, please let me - [Christmas is coming...](https://www.vadirectory.net/christmas-is-coming/) - and that means so is the New Year. If you're a Virtual Assistant who needs some guidance or perhaps someone who wants to be a VA but doesn't know where to start, then my VA Christmas special may be just what you need! What do you get? The 10 week training course, 1 year membership - [Why I prefer email](https://www.vadirectory.net/why-i-prefer-email/) - It was only 7.45am and I was catching up with emails and playing with some photos I wanted to edit. The business line rang and I wondered whether I should pick it up yet or not. After all I don't usually start work till a bit later. I answered the phone and it was one - [Off air for a few days](https://www.vadirectory.net/off-air-for-a-few-days/) - As you read this I will be making last minute preparations to shift to a new home. The last lot of packing will be taking place today and I probably won't be near my computer desk much. Later in the day my computer will be disconnected from the online world and it will be a - ["You have given me so much confidence"](https://www.vadirectory.net/you-have-given-me-so-much-confidence/) - They were the words spoken to me by a client recently. He's writing his family memoirs and getting into a mess with trying to handle Table of Contents, indexing and even line spacing between paragraphs. We spoke on the phone a few days ago and he emailed me his document. I could see right away - [Back online](https://www.vadirectory.net/back-online/) - Our new internet connection didn't happen when it was supposed to and, as a result, it's nearly a week longer than I anticipated being fully back online. Somewhat frustrating when you're running an online business. Our move from the old home to the new one went relatively smoothly but I have no idea how we - [Introducing the new Coaching Club](https://www.vadirectory.net/introducing-the-new-coaching-club/) - I've been working on a project in the background for some months, as if I need something else to be doing! Many of you will know that I've been running the VATrainer.com Virtual Assistant course for a few years now and I'm thrilled that we have many graduates now having gone through that program. However - [Whatever happened to ethics?](https://www.vadirectory.net/whatever-happened-to-ethics/) - On some of the business forums I belong to (not just VA forums) I see discussions amongst members who sub-contract work out to other service providers. One of the big turn-offs for some in using a sub-contractor is that some of the sub-contractors overstep their boundary and show no respect for the original relationship between - [Email peeve](https://www.vadirectory.net/email-peeve/) - I wrote a little while ago why I prefer email and this post covers a pet peeve of mine relating to email. I know that not everyone who uses email is a 'professional' online and many don't understand the use of it. But it does concern me if a client consistently responds to my emails - [The importance of follow up](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-importance-of-follow-up-2/) - We read often the importance of follow up when networking and meeting people for the first time but what about when they've already begun using your service or product? How many of you follow up afterward to see how things are going? A couple of years ago I decided to set up an autoresponder series - [Kudos to Twitter... and @Telstra!](https://www.vadirectory.net/kudos-to-twitter-and-telstra/) - I had a problem with one of my Telstra accounts. I'd inadvertently made a payment on the wrong account and I didn't pick it up till after I'd made the same mistake the following month. I couldn't figure out why Telstra was saying I was in arrears when my bookkeeping program told me I was - [Book your VA coaching now!](https://www.vadirectory.net/book-your-va-coaching-now/) - The end of the year might not be far away but it's not too late to plan for the New Year. I have two options available for new and emerging VAs and you can sign up today! Option 1. The VATrainer.com course runs over a 10 week period and requires you to spend some time - [Message for those wanting to be a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/message-for-those-wanting-to-be-a-va/) - I often get requests via email from people who want to become a Virtual Assistant. Sometimes via my VA forum, sometimes via my website contact form, sometimes by email and sometimes by phone. It's generally the written requests that concern me. Some write in ALL CAPS. This is not polite and considered yelling. It also - [New beginnings and all that](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-beginnings-and-all-that/) - This time of year traditionally gets people thinking about what has transpired over the past almost 12 months and what they would like to do for the following year. Some look upon the year with sorrow and others filled with hope and promise. What about you? What has this year brought for you? Have you - [Getting Started as a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/getting-started-as-a-virtual-assistant/) - It is clear to me through the various VA forums that the industry is continuing to grow. That's a good thing. And we see continued requests for VA support as well. But it is also obvious to me that there's not enough information out there for budding VAs in how to set up their businesses - [Am I an employer of Virtual Assistants?](https://www.vadirectory.net/am-i-an-employer-of-virtual-assistants/) - Interesting question and I do understand why I get asked that periodically. For the record, the answer is 'no'. I am not an employer. I am, however, the founder of the VA Network, "A Clayton's Secretary", and that network operates as an industry based group to help those who want to be Virtual Assistants develop - [AVAC bookings coming in](https://www.vadirectory.net/avac-bookings-coming-in/) - The Australian VA Conference (AVAC) is really only 3 months away. Did you realise that? It's just occurred to me. Early bird bookings are still available but not for too much longer. It's great to see we'll have VAs from different states in Australia attending but also from overseas. What a great event it's shaping - [Do I have to have a niche?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-i-have-to-have-a-niche/) - The question asked by many new VAs is: Do I have to have a niche? I see this discussed on various forums and while the intentions are good on behalf of those VAs who respond, I find that sometimes their enthusiasm for what they feel is right may be holding others back. The following is - [Protecting your accounts](https://www.vadirectory.net/protecting-your-accounts/) - At this time of year (Christmas/New Year) scams will be on the rise and so will phishing emails with promises of all sorts of things through bogus promotions. One of the VAs from my team posted a warning about a phishing email supposedly from her bank the other day. A day prior a client forwarded - [Win a year's membership with the ACS Team](https://www.vadirectory.net/win-a-years-membership-with-the-acs-team/) - Are you a Virtual Assistant looking to get more exposure for your business? Have you thought about joining a VA network but not sure whether it's worth it or not? (I can tell you now, it certainly is worth it) Perhaps you are looking to get started in the new year and membership of a - [Virtual Assistant Conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-conference/) - Do you know it's less than 3 months till AVAC? The dates are 12/13 March and once Christmas and the New Year has passed, that time will go very quickly. Why not gift yourself a booking or gift someone else? Take advantage of our early bird tickets at only $140 which includes a choice of - [Being a Virtual Assistant - Do You Have What It Takes?](https://www.vadirectory.net/being-a-virtual-assistant-do-you-have-what-it-takes/) - There is so much on the web these days about being a Virtual Assistant and for newcomers who have just discovered this industry it can indeed be a challenge working out where they should go for information, what they need to get started and how they find their clients? Information: May I say that it's - [Thinking about a new start for the New Year?](https://www.vadirectory.net/thinking-about-a-new-start-for-the-new-year/) - Want to set up your business as a Virtual Assistant, get some training and get started? Or perhaps you are already operating a VA business but feel there is information missing and you want to fill in the gaps? Why choose this program? Learn from an experienced Master Virtual Assistant (MVA) who has over 14 - [Holiday Season](https://www.vadirectory.net/holiday-season/) - This time of year normally sees a quieter work period. For some it might be busy as rush jobs come in before Christmas but generally it is much quieter. So what do you do during this time? I find it an ideal time to review things and update things, or tie up loose ends. This - [New Year Message to my Virtual Assistant readers](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-year-message-to-my-virtual-assistant-readers/) - I sent this message to the two forums I manage but thought I'd share it here too - in case you don't belong to one of the forums! Hi everyone, well, it's the end of the year of 2009. For my family the year started off badly but has ended up quite well (if you - [Start the year off right](https://www.vadirectory.net/start-the-year-off-right/) - Christmas/New Year, in Australia at least, is generally a time for taking a break. Many companies close down for 10 days, 2 weeks or more or they have a skeleton staff operating during that period. It is a time to just relax, let go, recover from the previous year and start to plan or look - [VAProject 52](https://www.vadirectory.net/project-52/) - I belong to a photography forum in my 'spare' time ;-) and one of the members there started Project 365 where those who wish to participate are required to post a new photo every day of this year. So far there are 21 members participating and you can view their images here. This led me - [Start up costs for a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/start-up-costs-for-a-va/) - Periodically I see discussions at VA forums that are really good topics for this blog. In particular these questions are often asked: How much was your start-up cost? How long before you started with your 1st client? My answer is this: How long is a piece of string? Kind of depends on a number of - [Training for a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/training-for-a-virtual-assistant/) - When should a Virtual Assistant get training to be a VA? This is a question often on the mind of those who are either looking at joining the industry or have been in it for awhile and perhaps are wondering how they can get up to speed with others. As with anything there are always - [VAProject 52](https://www.vadirectory.net/vaproject-52/) - Well, the end of my first week and who have I helped this past week? This first is a member of the ACS team (A Clayton's Secretary which is the VA network I run). A member sent me this message after being told by a client she had gotten the job he posted: I also - [When should you stop?](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-should-you-stop/) - I had a client of one of my VA team members contact me recently. He wanted to know how much contact I had with them and if I could check into something for him. A VA had been providing him with phone services and he said he'd emailed, SMS'd and left a phone message for - [Email - it is an advert for your business](https://www.vadirectory.net/email-it-is-an-advert-for-your-business/) - Email, for Virtual Assistants, is often our first point of contact with potential clients. It works like an amabassador for our businesses. Many experienced VAs, like myself, get a lot of emails from would-be VAs wanting to get work outsourced to them, or wanting to find out if they can work with us as a - [VAProject 52](https://www.vadirectory.net/vaproject-52-2/) - Well, how is your project progressing? Would love to hear about it. The person I helped this week isn't in the VA industry but is a budding photographer. She was seeking advice on a photographer's forum about a business card she was designing and asked for input. I and others did just that but what - [Update on Australian VA Conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/update-on-australian-va-conference/) - Update on AVAC - VA Conference As you know the inaugural Australian VA Conference (AVAC) will be held in Melbourne, Australia on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 March 2010. This conference is open to all VAs in any location. We hope you're planning to join us and meet your fellow VAs face-to-face at this great - [New look newsletter](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-look-newsletter/) - Each year I like to start off fresh with new ideas, new plans and often new looks. The website I'm thinking about changing but haven't yet fully decided on that. It's a big job. But I have updated my newsletter and had some great feedback on the new look. Why not pop in to see - [The Importance of Self-Education](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-importance-of-self-education/) - Recent posts at a VA forum has made me wonder just how much do Virtual Assistants (and other self-employed) value the importance of their own self education. It is oh-so-easy just to quit and give up and move on to something else if it doesn't work out. When in reality, if people were just prepared - [Starting out as a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/starting-out-as-a-virtual-assistant/) - It was several years ago I began this journey of developing a business at home. 16, in fact, next month. That time has flown by. My daughters are all now adults and no longer needed a mum at home but I must admit I have no inclination to go back out into the traditional workforce. - [VAProject 52 - Who have you helped this week?](https://www.vadirectory.net/vaproject-52-who-have-you-helped-this-week/) - One of my VA team members is going away overseas on a holiday soon and she was keen to find out what I did to protect my business and my clients when I was away last year for a whole month. I was able to share with her what I did, how I outsourced the - [When you are cold calling...](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-you-are-cold-calling/) - I know that many decide to cold call to get extra business, or even just to start out. Personally I've found that a very disheartening way to do things but I know that some really do excel at this type of communication and successfully achieve their objectives. So, if you're considering using cold calling as - [VA Project - Who have you helped this week?](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-project-who-have-you-helped-this-week/) - This week the recipient of my help was not a VA but rather a professor from a university in India. He'd approached me to write some articles for their publication on the topic of Virtual Assistance for their students. I felt honoured to be asked. However, I did find his initial email to me rather - [Using networking tools for VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/using-networking-tools-for-vas/) - At one of the VA forums I belong to a member asked if someone could explain how a small home transcription business can grow their business using Facebook, Linked-in or Twitter or is it more for the merchant business? My answer was brief - there's a lot to cover for each of these tools, but - [Making the customer wait](https://www.vadirectory.net/making-the-customer-wait/) - I posted a new job lead to my team of VAs and one of the responses I got both surprised me but also made me realise that perhaps some VAs (particularly newer ones) probably thought it was ok to do this. Make the client wait. The response was: Could you kindly forward on his details - [Agency VA or Self-Employed VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/agency-va-or-self-employed-va/) - Saw a comment recently on a well-known blog post about the use of Virtual Assistants. Perhaps the biggest problem with them was that after putting in my dues to get acquainted with the VA and 'training' them appropriately, they got promoted or reallocated and I had to start from scratch. This happened at least 3 - [Join an active VA community](https://www.vadirectory.net/join-an-active-va-community/) - The Virtual Assistants International Group (VAIG) has been an active VA community forum since 1998. It was shifted around a bit to find the right place to host the group and we eventually settled at yahoogroups in 2003. The group is like one big family - many of the core or regular contributors treat each - [My celebration but you get the gifts](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-celebration-but-you-get-the-gifts/) - Next month (24th) marks the 16th anniversary of my business "A Clayton's Secretary". It's no co-incidence that the Australian VA Conference is being run next month as well - I like to have something special happening around the anniversary of my business. But I want to make sure that others are benefiting from my celebrations - [Marketing - make sure you're ethical](https://www.vadirectory.net/marketing-make-sure-youre-ethical/) - On a VA forum recently one of the members mentioned she'd discovered that another VA business was using the name of her business in their Google Adwords. She has requested they take them down immediately and several other members came back with messages of support. While I do also support the concern of this VA - [AVAC - Only two weeks away](https://www.vadirectory.net/avac-only-two-weeks-away/) - I feel the excitement beginning to mount as VAs around Australia anticipate meeting one another face-to-face - many for the first time. Our colleagues in the US, Canada and elsewhere I know want to join us and hopefully they can for the next one. I believe we might even have a visitor from Turkey - - [How do you recruit clients?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-you-recruit-clients/) - This was a question asked on a VA forum. The new VA had suggested she might go cold calling and wanted suggestions on what to do. This is my answer to her. I would recommend, that rather go out and doing cold calling, you actually spend time meeting people and getting to know them. Networking - [Australian VA Conference this week!](https://www.vadirectory.net/australian-va-conference-this-week/) - Well, it's almost here. Can't believe all the months of planning is now going to come to a halt with the event taking place on Friday and Saturday this week. If you are planning to come but haven't yet booked, it's not too late but the cut-off is Wednesday. So get your bookings in now. - [AVAC - until next year](https://www.vadirectory.net/avac-until-next-year/) - Well, by the verbal and written feeback I've heard/seen so far, it would seem that the AustralianVAConference (AVAC) has been a success and is definitely something the VA Community would like on the calendar as an annual event. There was a lot of buzz at the end of each day and it was great to - [Planning to attend a conference, or ...](https://www.vadirectory.net/planning-to-attend-a-conference-or/) - Still coming back down to earth after our fantastic event, the Australian VA Conference (AVAC) a couple of days ago. It was great to meet face-to-face the names I've come to know so well over the internet for some years. And to meet new names, people I hadn't met online before but who are venturing - [Virtual Assistant Newsletters](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-newsletters/) - I wrote a post some time ago about Free Resources Virtual Assistants love and Carla has left a comment asking about Virtual Assistant newsletters. She's looking for a list of them. If you write a Virtual Assistant newsletter then why not leave a link for it here in the comments so Carla (and others) can - [Who advocates for us?](https://www.vadirectory.net/who-advocates-for-us/) - Just heard on the news on the radio that ACTU wants the 1.4 million award wage earners to have a pay rise of $27 a week (in Australia). Made me wonder. Who gives us a pay rise when we deserve it, or find that we've been on the same rate for several years? We do. - [16 years ago today...](https://www.vadirectory.net/16-years-ago-today/) - It was 16 years ago today that I walked into a govt building in Melbourne to register my business name "A Clayton's Secretary". I was both scared and excited. Scared - would it work? Excited - New horizons. For a long time I felt like I was on holidays at home, getting to play with - [Engaging a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/engaging-a-va/) - Then it's important to remember: There is no 'standard' rate for engaging a VA. Their cost of living, location, currency, experience and skillset vary considerably. First you will have to weigh up whether you need to engage someone who is local to where you work, or whether virtual is what you need. We find that - [5 years of blogging](https://www.vadirectory.net/5-years-of-blogging/) - In 2007 I wrote a blogpost about 2 years of blogging. I came across it the other day and thought, really? Funny what you forget you've written. I won't repeat my journey of how I came to be blogging, you can read the original post linked above. But I can tell you some of what - [Flattery won't get you everywhere](https://www.vadirectory.net/flattery-wont-get-you-everywhere/) - I'm amazed by the amount of 'VA' spammers out there, who are desperate to get their comments posted on this blog. Regular spam is bad enough but VAs doing this? Your flattery and use of big words will not impress me, nor the html coding you leave in the comments either. However, if you add - [VAs - Looking for long-term relationships](https://www.vadirectory.net/vas-looking-for-long-term-relationships/) - The excitement of getting that first client soon passes and you start to wonder how much work is going to come through and how often. If you're a new VA, or a client looking to engage a VA for the first-time, I encourage you to look at the relationship as something that is going to - [Clients Using VAs Part 9](https://www.vadirectory.net/clients-using-vas-part-9/) - In another of this series, here is an interview I did some months ago with Wendy Moore. Please tell my readers a bit about who you are and what you do. With over 14 years experience in the IT industry, I understood the amazing potential available to women in business who knew how to use - [What is a VA and where do you find them?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-is-a-va-and-where-do-you-find-them/) - I've been invited to be the Guest Expert at the Business Forum of Experts starting from tomorrow and we will be discussing the above topic. If you're an Aussie business you might like to join this forum and explore what there is to offer. One of the things that I find in my industry is - [Hiring a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/hiring-a-virtual-assistant/) - Welcome to the readers of Sarah Wilson's blog where she recently explored engaging the services of a Virtual Assistant (VA). Below you will find an interview of one client in Australia using VAs for her business but if you check the Client Interview category you will find many other client interviews listed. We also have - [New look coming!](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-look-coming/) - Those of you who receive my newsletter or visit my website regularly will by now have seen our new look website. This blog will be undergoing a similar change very soon so stay tuned. The new look has been several months in the pipeline and this is partly due to research regarding membership software. I - [Change, the essence of life](https://www.vadirectory.net/change-the-essence-of-life/) - “Change is the essence of life. Be willing to surrender what you are for what you could become.” The above was part of a promotion for AIOP's Annual Office Professional Breakfast held each year here in Australia. One of my team had posted an invite to the Sydney breakfast and wanted to know if anyone - [The blog has a new look!](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-blog-has-a-new-look/) - If you receive this post via email or RSS you might just want to drop by the blog itself as it has a totally new look. The theme is the same as the main website but with some differences and the last 10 posts all on the front page. To view the full post just - [Virtual Assistant Forums - their benefits](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-forums-their-benefits/) - I've mentioned from time to time the various VA forums I belong to. It's where some of my material comes from to share on this blog. Today I want to share on the benefits of forums like these. If you are a VA and if you are working alone, then becoming a member of 2 - [Operating a VA business - Adding to the equasion](https://www.vadirectory.net/operating-a-va-business-adding-to-the-equasion/) - When we first start building our Virtual Assistant businesses we tend to concentrate on what we know best and it nearly always relates to word-processing, data entry, transcription work, book-keeping or similar. As we become more confident we start to find things we really enjoy doing and that often we can teach our clients about - [Don't give up!](https://www.vadirectory.net/dont-give-up/) - Recent discussions at a VA forum were about how overwhelmed one member was feeling, trying to keep up with everyone else, but knowing she didn't excel in a lot of the things that others do. End result was she felt like she was beginning to burn out. Starting up a business is no simple thing. - [McAfee not in my good books!](https://www.vadirectory.net/mcafee-not-in-my-good-books/) - Imagine my dismay this morning when I checked my computer just before 6.30am to find that it had two error messages and the Start button was missing. Little did I know what was ahead of me for the next 10+ hours. Frustration, tears and wasted time and I nearly wiped my computer to start all - [Forum Etiquette](https://www.vadirectory.net/forum-etiquette/) - One of the VA groups I belong to was discussing limiting sales pitches to seminars or webinars and how did members feel about it? My response was: I think that people who come along to promote/sell something at a list that doesn't belong to them are being presumptous. I have a problem with it personally. - [How many clients do you need?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-many-clients-do-you-need/) - A chance comment at a VA forum made me realise that a new VA was using the scatter gun approach to finding new clients and was, therefore, trying to prevent travelling all over the countryside and use cold calling instead. Except she was unsure how to go about it. She'd obtained (legally) a directory for - [Get a Virtual Assistant to help you](https://www.vadirectory.net/get-a-virtual-assistant-to-help-you/) - Do you get overwhelmed by tracking information and contact details of everyone you meet or have contact with? Does this describe you and your business? Pieces of paper with names and addresses, phone numbers and/or email addresses written on them. Business cards in piles, or with rubber bands wrapped around them, or thrown in a - [Forum membership etiquette](https://www.vadirectory.net/forum-membership-etiquette/) - My regular readers will know I participate in several forums - not just Virtual Assistant forums, but also other forums relating to business and/or other topics I have an interest in. My business has grown with the internet, i.e. I began in business 18 months before it entered the business arena here in Australia, so - [My turn for the OIVAC Blog Hopping Tour!](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-turn-for-the-oivac-blog-hopping-tour/) - Hi Kathie, Glad to be back in the Land of Oz and stopping by and chatting about issues facing the VA industry. I look forward to sharing my thoughts about the questions you’ve asked and reading comments from your readers. I’ll come back and respond, if anyone has additional thoughts on these insightful topics. So, - [Looking for Virtual Assistant work?](https://www.vadirectory.net/looking-for-virtual-assistant-work/) - As the owner/manager of a well established Virtual Assistant Network I get many requests from people who want to join my team of VAs. I would love to help them all but there are some who really disqualify themselves very early in the process, which is a shame. I know they're anxious to get work - [Gmail the new Hotmail?](https://www.vadirectory.net/gmail-the-new-hotmail/) - Do you use gmail? I do. I love the filtering system and the fact that I can channel more than one email address through my account so I can check ALL email when away from my home or office at any period of time. It's a great system. However, I manage several forums online and - [The flexibility of being a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-flexibility-of-being-a-virtual-assistant/) - Recently, a member of our VA forum was highlighted in a national paper with respect to her 'sea change' and the work she does from home. The paper was highlighting the jobs that could be done at home. Being a Virtual Assistant has so many positives to it. Let me share with you some of - [Need help with your database?](https://www.vadirectory.net/need-help-with-your-database/) - Do you struggle with managing your database? Perhaps it's keeping all the new entries in from the business cards and other contacts you've obtained? Or perhaps it's managing the mail merge aspect to send out letters, emails or perhaps even cards. Do not despair. There are Virtual Assistants who specialise in this type of work - [Need help with your Virtual Assistant Business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/need-help-with-your-virtual-assistant-business/) - I love to help VAs starting out in business, or those who are a bit further along but still need a helping hand. I have 4 different ways I can help VAs get their businesses rolling and perhaps one, two, three or all four are what you need! I will list them in the order - [VA + NFP = Perfect Marriage](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-nfp-perfect-marriage/) - Chatting to a VA over the weekend made me realise how much a Virtual Assistant working with a Not For Profit is a perfect fit. You could say it's the perfect marriage. Organisations run by volunteer committees at some time or another get to the point of overload. The committee members have to make a - [Get work as a Virtual PA](https://www.vadirectory.net/get-work-as-a-virtual-pa/) - Welcome to viewers of Channel 9's A Current Affair Program. If you're looking for work as a Virtual PA, then you've come to the right place! This blog has many articles relating to how you would establish a work from home business and the types of clients who require our services. Commonly known as Virtual - [The promise of work](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-promise-of-work/) - Readers will know that I own and manage a Virtual Assistant network, as well as moderate two VA forums. We get new readers here every day so I just wanted to mention that before following with this post. Yesterday I received an email from a lady wanting to know how much work she would get - [Looking for a mail list option to run on my server](https://www.vadirectory.net/looking-for-a-mail-list-option-to-run-on-my-server/) - I currently run my site on Wordpress with Wishlist installed to manage members of my network. I want to bring onto my site a suitable mail list option for my members to use, instead of an external service. This is what I perceive is needed: Messages to be archived so that members can view past - [Being a Virtual Assistant gives flexibility](https://www.vadirectory.net/being-a-virtual-assistant-gives-flexibility/) - Operating as a Virtual Assistant gives flexibility to the way we work and also to our lifestyle. Over the years I've had clients appreciate that I could juggle things to meet a deadline or get something happening quickly for them when they weren't expect that could be done. On the other hand I've enjoyed the - [Good admin skills? Then take a step in faith](https://www.vadirectory.net/good-admin-skills-then-take-a-step-in-faith/) - I love reading stories of those who have gained the confidence to step out in faith and begin work as a Virtual Assistant. When I began it was out of desperation to be home for my family of 5 daughters. I struggled with managing a job, family, home, kids' activities and so on. Working from - [VADirectory - a list for experienced VAs too](https://www.vadirectory.net/vadirectory-a-list-for-experienced-vas-too/) - It came to my notice yesterday that many think the VA Network I own and manage, "A Clayton's Secretary" is for new VAs only and that experienced VAs cannot join. I was so upset when I heard this as that has never been the message I've been putting across and I want to correct it - [What kind of VA are you?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-kind-of-va-are-you/) - When you first enter the VA industry it seems to be just one particular type of role but as you become familiar with the types of services many offer or the types of services clients request, you begin to realise you can actually niche yourself based on your skillset or personal preferences. There are many - [Daycare too expensive? Work at home!](https://www.vadirectory.net/daycare-too-expensive-work-at-home/) - There are many reasons why VAs become VAs and one of those many reasons could simply be because daycare for your children has become far too expensive. I know and appreciate that daycare givers also need to be compensated for their time and expertise but all the same, it is often far beyond what most - [Need a VA who can really do what they say?](https://www.vadirectory.net/need-a-va-who-can-really-do-what-they-say/) - I sometimes hear from disgruntled clients who secure a Virtual Assistant through various means only to find they can't do what they say they can. This is not only frustrating for the client but is bad for our industry too. As much as possible I try to encourage all I speak to, to look for - [What kind of skills do I need?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-kind-of-skills-do-i-need/) - Periodically I get asked this question - to work as a Virtual Assistant, what kind of skills do I need? There are tons of different types of services that VAs are providing today, however, traditionally they did begin as work at home secretaries - those who had good secretarial skills in the corporate world, and - [A day in the life of a VA Network owner](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-va-network-owner/) - Many VAs do not know what goes on in the background of a network owner - or in fact anyone who owns or moderate a network of some type. So I thought I'd share my day with you. I had expected to get some client work done today but very little has been done. Instead, - [10 Surefire Steps to Market your VA Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/10-surefire-steps-to-market-your-va-business/) - Have you wondered how to market your business and get your name out there? Have you wondered how others do it? There are some very simple steps to getting things happening and it very much relates to persistency and consistency - keep at it, even when it seems not much is happening. The reality is - [How to become a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-to-become-a-virtual-assistant/) - Many may not be aware of this book I wrote a few years ago about "How to become a Virtual Assistant". When I first began my business there were very few people you could ask for information. What I was doing was new to the business world so I couldn't get advice from someone who - [The Act of Responding](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-act-of-responding/) - Is it me or is it everyone else? It seems to me, if you email someone, requesting a quote, a job to be done, asking for information or something that requires a response, then good etiquette states you should reply and acknowledge the email, even if you don't have an immediate answer. Over the past - [Spell it out](https://www.vadirectory.net/spell-it-out/) - I love the excitement of new VAs as they get their very first website up and running (or any business person for that matter) but sometimes I feel they get carried away with using the latest buzzwords and acronyms. While it's important to demonstrate you are current with technology and the times, it is very - [Ethics or New Trend?](https://www.vadirectory.net/ethics-or-new-trend/) - Taking a leaf out of Sharon Williams' book, or should I say her latest blog post on a similar topic, I have to add my own concerns to this new 'trend' happening. Over the years it's not been uncommon to have Uni students ask to engage a member of our VA team to do things - [Virtual Assistance - a Real Profession](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistance-a-real-profession/) - It's interesting to watch the commentary in various VA forums. There are those who have been in the industry a long time (like me), those who have been around between 3-5 years and those who are just learning what the industry is really about. They come from many different avenues of life and discover the - [Business sustainability program](https://www.vadirectory.net/business-sustainability-program/) - Have you checked what your local council has on offer for small businesses? I've recently shifted into a different Shire and found with delight that this one is very focused on helping small businesses to succeed. Their philosophy is that they would like the same $ spent over and over and over and over... again - [Is there enough work?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-there-enough-work/) - I run a training course for VAs as many of you know and occasionally I'll get responses from follow ups of those who haven't gone through with the course for whatever reason (usually time or money, or both). Below is a question from one recent prospective student and my answer to her. I am still - [Who do you listen to? Pt II](https://www.vadirectory.net/who-do-you-listen-to-ptii/) - I was busy chatting at a different forum this week - not a VA forum but a Work At Home forum which has a mixture of different industries represented there. But it seems that many industries all suffer the same problem - people who join an industry, spend a short time in it and then - [The importance of reading and comprehension](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-importance-of-reading-and-comprehension/) - I'm amazed at how many people apply to join my Virtual Assistant network and then can't follow simple written guidelines to ensure they get the most out of their membership. As with joining any forum or network, there are some guidelines and rules - it's important to read them and then work your membership accordingly. - [A VA for each thing...](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-va-for-each-thing/) - Somewhere along the line the general public (and clients) have been given the idea that you can engage one VA and get everything done! What a neat idea that is. Trouble is, it's usually far from the truth. The reality is that some VAs are generalists, i.e. they can do wordprocessing, database management, website management - [Sub-contracting to another VA? Treat like a client!](https://www.vadirectory.net/sub-contracting-to-another-va-treat-like-a-client/) - I had an email from one of my team recently who'd been sub-contracting to another VA. Turns out that while the job had been completed there had been some disagreement about how the job should have been handled and therefore billed. I've had similar emails from VAs from time to time. Sometimes things aren't that - [Working with a VA should be a personal experience](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-with-a-va-should-be-a-personal-experience/) - I love this industry! It has allowed me to get to know my clients on a more personal level. What do I mean by that? Well, I don't mean that I've become friendly with their family and attend family functions (although occasionally I definitely have done that in the past) but it does mean that - [Employer/Client - what's the difference?](https://www.vadirectory.net/employerclient-whats-the-difference/) - Well, I sincerely hope you do know the difference or perhaps you shouldn't be going into business. But it does astound me how many (new) VAs will refer to a prospective client as an employer. WRONG MINDSET and it's not going to help you grow your business. It is so very important to have the - [Developing Confidence in your VA business](https://www.vadirectory.net/developing-confidence-in-your-va-business/) - Developing confidence in anything new that we tackle is part of the growing process. From taking our first walking steps, to learning to recognising letters and words so we can read, to learning maths and the many other things as we grow up, learning and developing confidence in running your own VA business is part - [It's not a 'get rich quick' option](https://www.vadirectory.net/its-not-a-get-rich-quick-option/) - I saw a post by a lady the other day who wanted to leave her job and become a VA as an interim step to setting up another business. She was given some good advice by other existing VAs on what to do but it was obvious within a 24 hour time span she was - [You can't build it 100% online](https://www.vadirectory.net/you-cant-build-it-100-online/) - I know I'm going to get people arguing with me on this one but hear me out. If you're running a Virtual Assistant business then you are servicing clients who need your help. Those clients come from all walks of life and not all of them live on the internet as many VAs do (me - [VAs, please get your facts right!](https://www.vadirectory.net/vas-please-get-your-facts-right/) - I get so frustrated when I see new Virtual Assistants write about our industry with incorrect information. I say they must be new because surely they would know better. I, and many of the VA leaders work hard at educating the public and the media on our industry and when someone publishes something inaccurate it - [New to the VA industry and looking for a job...](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-to-the-va-industry-and-looking-for-a-job/) - odesk, guru, elance, craigslist, you name it. New VAs come to various VA forums and ask about these different sites and wonder if they really work. The latest one was this: I'm new to the VA world and just came across this American company xxx that offers jobs to VAs and hiring opportunities for employers. - [Are you doing the work?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-doing-the-work/) - I sometimes wonder just how much effort some put into building their VA businesses? They join a network or forum, put up a website and then I see very little of them after that. Sometime later I get told they're closing their business or resigning from the network. What has taken place in between? Have - [We are not 'just secretaries'](https://www.vadirectory.net/we-are-not-just-secretaries/) - Had an interesting conversation with a prospective client today. They were despairing that they couldn't find good telemarketers and had spent extensive time doing some research to find the right people. I spent some time asking questions. Seems they only want to pay sub-contractor's rates and not full rates. I explained to them that an - [Tips for clients to find the right VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tips-for-clients-to-find-the-right-va/) - On my site there is a form for clients to fill out and the information therein goes to my VA team so that the client can receive several responses. However, often I have to write back to the client, before the request is sent to the team, to ask for more information. Things that are - [Quick way to fail if you're looking for VA work](https://www.vadirectory.net/quick-way-to-fail/) - This is just a small 'beef' but an important one. I get many potential VAs filling out the application form on my site to join our team. That's great and I love to help them as much as I can. But I get some who fill out the wrong form on the website and it - [Trading off someone else's business name is bad form](https://www.vadirectory.net/trading-off-someone-elses-business-name-is-bad-form/) - Why is it that new Virtual Assistants (and I guess new anything in any industry) think they can run their business using someone else's business name and catch phrase? Worse for them - both are trademarked. This particular VA is running a business in Queensland Australia. I doubt very much that they haven't heard of - [Being a VA doesn't mean 'cheap'](https://www.vadirectory.net/being-a-va-doesnt-mean-cheap/) - I get amazed by the (thankfully small) number of people who contact me looking for, and I quote ' I could do with a good inexpensive VA. My experience with them has been poor. Would appreciate your advice on this score. My response to this person was: Re 'inexpensive' VA. Not sure what you mean - [Being a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/being-a-virtual-assistant-2/) - Interesting discussion at one of the forums I belong to related to the term of title 'Virtual Assistant'. Some found it hard to explain to people what they do, some wanted the title changed and others were happy to stay with it. The title isn't just a title though, it's a whole industry. And it's - [Free advertising for VA website](https://www.vadirectory.net/free-advertising-for-va-website/) - Periodically there will be requests on the Virtual Assistant forums asking about free advertising. In fact you find requests for free almost everything. I'm a believer of that old saying 'you have to spend money to make money' and the fact is if you're in business, you should expect that you're going to have a - [Creating a Virtual Assistant business](https://www.vadirectory.net/creating-a-virtual-assistant-business/) - If you're a regular reader of my blog you would have seen last week the post about a VA who had infringed upon two of my trademarks (my business name and my catch phrase) on her website. Her response had been she didn't know and had engaged someone else to do her site for her. - [Identify yourself!](https://www.vadirectory.net/identify-yourself/) - I've just published my latest newsletter which has an article about identifying who you are when emailing people, particularly if they've been added to a list. It doesn't matter if they've even self-subscribed. Your newsletter, auto responders and any other emails should identify who the sender is and should also have some kind of signature - [Address or no address?](https://www.vadirectory.net/address-or-no-address/) - I've posted this at a couple of VA forum and it's opened quite a discussion. So I'm posting it here too for your comments and feedback. It seems to me that more and more people are not listing their addresses on their websites, in their signature blocks and on their business cards. I find this - [How passionate are you?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-passionate-are-you/) - We've been having some interesting discussions on the forums about the term 'Virtual Assistant' and how we describe to those we meet what it is we do. I have a simple way of explaining it - I simply ask people if they understand how a PA (Personal Assistant) or a secretary works with their boss - [Super Saturday in Adelaide](https://www.vadirectory.net/super-saturday-in-adelaide/) - Some readers will know that I use Send Out Cards for building client relationships and keeping contact with people on my database. Great system which is cost efficient and allows me to personalise them in a unique way. Also a great way of using my photos. If you’re curious about Send Out Cards and live - [Show them you care](https://www.vadirectory.net/show-them-you-care/) - I wonder if you take the time to check the location of a person you are emailing? Too often I get emails that are directed to me personally, and are not part of a bulk email, where the person says 'have a great day', or 'hope you're having a great summer' when the reality is - [What are you doing next year?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-are-you-doing-next-year/) - Did you know it's only 12 weeks to Christmas? yeah, I know, but someone had to say it. We don't like being reminded of how close the end of the year is, do we? Seriously though, have you thought about what you're doing next year? If you fit into any of the following, then I - [The hours you do](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-hours-you-do/) - I received an email recently from one of my VA team members which highlighted a problem they had been having with sub-contracting VAs but it is something that all VAs should be aware of when doing work for someone - whether another VA or the client direct. And this relates to your responsibility regarding the - [New course for Virtual Assistants...](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-course-for-virtual-assistants/) - and anyone else interested. The new course? How to use Wordpress to create blogs and websites. This is something I've had requested a few times and so here it is, available at last! Many readers will know that I've been blogging now for several years and that Wordpress is my preferred blogging platform. They will - [Finding a reputable Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/finding-a-reputable-virtual-assistant/) - This is a question I see quite often now in different places on the web. People posting places where you can ask questions about how to find a reputable VA. The most obvious place (to me) is to look where there at the professional networks that have been set up for the industry globally. There - [And the winner is...](https://www.vadirectory.net/and-the-winner-is/) - Shauna Upson of SecretSecretary. Congraulations Shauna. If you get in touch with me I'll organise the course to get to you. For those others that missed out, I'm sorry but you are still welcome to register for the Wordpress Intro course here. I've had a few VAs testing it out and I believe the course - [You don't need to meet me...](https://www.vadirectory.net/you-dont-need-to-meet-me/) - I often get people contacting me by phone wanting to meet me before deciding to become a Virtual Assistant. When I question why they feel this is necessary, many are just looking for confirmation and an assurety that I'm real and that the industry is too. Some see it as an 'interview' before submitting their - [GST or no GST?](https://www.vadirectory.net/gst-or-no-gst/) - An interesting query was raised at one of the VA forums I participate in. A curly one really. A VA had sub-contracted work out to another VA, they had agreed on a rate but when the invoice arrived it had GST added onto the agreed rate. Therefore the invoice was higher than originally anticipated and - [The longest I've been in a 'job'...](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-longest-ive-been-in-a-job/) - Just realised this week that the role I have today is the longest I've held down in a 'job' anywhere. Which must mean the boss and I get along ok, hey? ;-) I celebrate 17 years in my own business early next year. The longest I held down a job (before getting bored and moving - [Yet another company hopping on the VA bandwagon...](https://www.vadirectory.net/yet-another-company-hopping-on-the-bandwagon/) - I received an email this morning from 1shoppingcart.com advising all its users that they can now make use of their new partnership virtual assistant services. What? I thought they were a shoppingcart service that provides broadcast emails, autoresponders and shoppingcarts. Now they want to enter the Virtual Assistant Industry too? I don't know about you - [It's not cool to ask](https://www.vadirectory.net/its-not-cool-to-ask/) - In fact, it's rather rude. What? you say. I'm talking about those who beg for work at Virtual Assistant forums. They join and then start sending PMs (Personal Messages) to members at the forum, or email them, or ask on the forums itself for work. This is not what the forums are for. They are - [The truth about using a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-truth-about-using-a-virtual-assistant/) - I see so many articles, comments, blogs, etc on how to use a Virtual Assistant and of the benefits or the challenges. One thing that comes through over and over is that many business owners think that having a Virtual Assistant might be something they cannot afford - nice to have, but on their wishlist. - [Did you miss it?](https://www.vadirectory.net/did-you-miss-it/) - I have a Virtual Assistant Training Course that runs over a 10 week period, delivered by email. I've had a special offer on for the past 5 days. Did you see it? If you've been thinking about doing a course to become a Virtual Assistant or to add value to your existing VA business, then - [Virtual Assistant tools you use - Twitter](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-tools-you-use/) - I am constantly refining the way I do things and researching new and better ways to do things. So I thought I'd open up for discussion here the various tools we use as Virtual Assistants. Today I want to discuss using Twitter on behalf of clients. Because I monitor multiple accounts on Twitter I've chosen - [Where are you located?](https://www.vadirectory.net/where-are-you-located/) - Periodically I get requests from students here in Australia researching the Virtual Assistant industry. They want to know how many VAs are here in Australia, how long they've been in business and what type of work we do. While I can answer the last question easily and give them an indication of how long I've - [Begin working as a Virtual Assistant today](https://www.vadirectory.net/begin-working-as-a-virtual-assistant-today/) - With Christmas and the New Year not that far away, I know that many are looking at what they're going to do next year. Continue in their job or start working for themselves? I know which I prefer. I've had experience of both and as much as working for yourself has some uncertainty to it, - [Virtual Assistant tools you use - Facebook/LinkedIn](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-tools-you-use-facebook/) - Touching on Facebook, and LinkedIn for that matter, I recently installed a useful add-on to Outlook called the Social Connector. It will show you what people have been saying in both Facebook and LinkedIn, while using the program Outlook. I wasn't sure at first how useful it might be and had to play around with - [Start up costs for a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/start-up-costs-for-a-virtual-assistant/) - Periodically I see posts at forums asking about the start up costs for being a Virtual Assistant. In comparison to many other industries, the costs are fairly low, but that does not mean it should be considered 'cheap'. Too many I see on forums trying to get everything for free and it makes me wonder - [Do they know you exist?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-they-know-you-exist/) - I was just saying to someone I met last week that often if it's not online then they lose a sale from us. Example: Graham and I frequently go away and stay at B&Bs. I can't be bothered going to travel agencies or RACV to find out what listings they have. I simply Google B&Bs - [Virtual Assistant tools you use - Facebook](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-tools-you-use-2/) - Today I want to discuss Facebook. Facebook has changed considerably in the 2+ years I've been using it. At first I thought of it as a program that young people use but over time I could see that businesses were utilising it and it has an important part to play in the game of networking - [A Niche Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-niche-virtual-assistant/) - Here, there and everywhere you see discussions on 'what type of VA' are Virtual Assistants? Many have discovered (or created) a niche business by servicing a particular type of client, or by providing a particular type of service. Is one better than the other? Not that I'm aware of. My own personal focus over the - [Niche VA - Social Media](https://www.vadirectory.net/niche-va-social-media/) - I thought I'd touch on the various Niches that a Virtual Assistant can work in. Today I want to touch on Social Media - a subject that is very popular in today's business climate. Social Media covers so many things but largely relates to the form of networking you might do for your business and - [Two Wonderful Web Women meet face-to-face](https://www.vadirectory.net/two-wonderful-web-women-meet-face-to-face/) - Recently I had the wonderful privilege of meeting Janet Beckers, Founder of Wonderful Web Women face-to-face. We'd spoken online before and on the phone but had never met face-to-face until a few weeks ago in Melbourne. Funny really, we've known each other for a few years. So strange to not have met before. Janet had - [Niche VA - Send Out Cards](https://www.vadirectory.net/niche-va-send-out-cards/) - Many would have heard of Send Out Cards by now. It's an exceptional online program that allows you to pick or create a greeting card that is then printed on recycled card and posted within a short period of time. The cards are of good quality and there is a gift line available too. Now - [Start working at home next year](https://www.vadirectory.net/start-working-at-home-next-year/) - At this time of year thoughts turn to the new year that's coming. Will we continue doing what we've been doing? Will we do something new? Is now the time to make a change? For many the dream of working at home is still that. A dream. They wonder if it will ever become possible? - [Wordpress Clinic](https://www.vadirectory.net/wordpress-clinic/) - Readers will remember the Wordpress Intro Course I launched some weeks ago. For those of you who feel you'd like something more advanced then VA Classroom's Wordpress Clinic may be just what you're looking for. Details below: It almost goes without saying that WordPress has become the most popular web platform among entrepreneurs and small - [Virtual Assistant Training Course](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-training-course/) - The VATrainer.com course is on special at the moment up till 31st December. Ideal Christmas gift for someone you know who wants to learn about being a Virtual Assistant. Or perhaps you can gift it to yourself! Normally $675 for the 10 week course, you can get it for $595 with some extras thrown in, - [Virtual Assistants - Mind Your Language!](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistants-mind-your-language/) - I had a conversation recently with someone relating to internet merchant facilities. During the course of the conversation he kept using in-house terminology which didn't really mean much to me at all. I had to remind him, more than once, that he's speaking a language that his industry might understand but the client wouldn't, and - [Have you done your Christmas Cards yet?](https://www.vadirectory.net/have-you-done-your-christmas-cards-yet/) - There's been discussions on various VA forums about whether or not to send Christmas cards to clients or Christmas emails. It was generally agreed that emails do get lost, filtered out, read later, but a printed card in the post would be read and put on a shelf or on display somewhere for the client - [Will you have room at the inn?](https://www.vadirectory.net/will-you-have-room-at-the-inn/) - I'm speaking about during the Australian VA Conference (AVAC). You'll need to be a VA attending the AVAC event in Melbourne and therefore, living in Melbourne to accommodate out of town guest VAs. We're buddying up visiting VAs to Melbourne based VA hosts so they can get to and fro the venue and find their - [Merry Christmas to our readers](https://www.vadirectory.net/merry-christmas-to-our-readers/) - I want to take this opportunity of wishing all readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. I hope you get the opportunity for taking a break and spending time with family, friends and others. My husband is home for a 2 week break so I won't be spending as much time in the - [Why I wouldn't take this job](https://www.vadirectory.net/why-i-wouldnt-take-this-job/) - I got an email overnight with the subject: I am looking for an experienced article writer. The message said: Dear friend, I am impressed by your writings and the content you post on your blogs. I was also looking for a Quality Technical Writer who may provide me similar quality articles. I can provide you - [Moving towards the New Year as a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/moving-towards-the-new-year-as-a-virtual-assistant/) - This time of year is traditionally one where people take stock of what they've achieved throughout the current year and what they might change or do in the new year. Many of my regular readers will know that I usually have a Prayer and Planning day mid January to plan for the new year. I've - [Happy New Year to our readers](https://www.vadirectory.net/happy-new-year-to-our-readers/) - 4th January early morning where I am and the new working year has begun! I've been looking forward to this week. I was enjoying my break with my husband but a part of me has been raring to go, being filled with new ideas and plans during the break time - I just want to - [Start the New Year clear of clutter!](https://www.vadirectory.net/start-the-new-year-clear-of-clutter/) - New Year, New Start... or isn't it like that for you? Does your desk and your computer still hold the clutter of the previous year? Here are some simple things to clear the way for you. Outlook's .pst file continues to grow as you receive email and send email. You can use the autoarchiving options - [Seeking good customer service](https://www.vadirectory.net/seeking-good-customer-service/) - My husband and I were watching ACA (A Current Affair, Ch 9, Melbourne) program the other night and they were discussing why less people are entering the shops and more are shopping online. Talk had even been made of the home shopping option that was available for years and then scrapped because it was considered - [AVAC Special offer](https://www.vadirectory.net/avac-special-offer/) - The Australian VA Conference (AVAC) is only weeks away and I have a special offer for those who would like to join my VA network and come to the conference. Get both at a reduced rate together! You can see the details at this page http://australianvaconference.com/avac-payment/ 1 year's membership to "A Clayton's Secretary" (with the - [Google Alert - great tool](https://www.vadirectory.net/google-alert-great-tool/) - I was chatting to a client the other day about ways to find blogs to comment on and I asked them if they knew about Google Alert? They didn't. So I explained about how this very simple tool can assist you daily in your business. I don't know how long I've been using it. Their - [Virtual Assistants for Photographers - niche](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistants-for-photographers-niche/) - As you know, photography is a passion of mine.... and it occurs to me this would make another great niche for a Virtual Assistant. What kind of things would photographers need assistance with? Diary management of bookings Database management of existing and prospective clients Cataloguing of images Setting up and ordering photobooks Promotion and marketing - [Have you thought about what you want to do this year?](https://www.vadirectory.net/have-you-thought-about-what-you-want-to-do-this-year/) - I sent the following information to my clients recently and thought that my readers might also benefit from the information. Things to think about for your business at the beginning of a new year. Website(s) - does it need updating, changing, or anything else done to it? Are your contact details current on the site? - [You don't have to have a lot of hours....](https://www.vadirectory.net/you-dont-have-to-have-a-lot-of-hours/) - In speaking to various people or reading articles online, it's easy to understand why some have the perception that they need a lot of hours of regular work to be done to have a Virtual Assistant looking after them. In fact, that's not true at all. While many VAs do have packages where you can - [Going on a trip?](https://www.vadirectory.net/going-on-a-trip/) - Then don't leave it till you're at your destination to find out if you can access your email. This is something that should be organised before you leave - not afterward. When my husband and I went to Canada and Alaska in 2009 I knew I'd need to check email daily. While I had left - [What are you promoting?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-are-you-promoting/) - A few weeks ago I had an interesting comment from someone who was looking for VA support. They said to me "I would have asked you but I know how busy you are and didn't think you had room for me". oops, is that how people really see me? It was too late to say - [What are you promoting?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-are-you-promoting/) - A few weeks ago I had an interesting comment from someone who was looking for VA support. They said to me "I would have asked you but I know how busy you are and didn't think you had room for me". oops, is that how people really see me? It was too late to say - [Niche VA - Blogs](https://www.vadirectory.net/niche-va-blogs/) - I first began blogging in 2005 I think it was. Lost track really. Blogging for me was the perfect outlet for the frustrated writer inside. I love to write! I've found over the years blogging is a great way to keep fresh content on your site, and to demonstrate your expertise and knowledge in an - [Full time job as a Virtual Assistant (VA)](https://www.vadirectory.net/full-time-job-as-a-va/) - This week I saw a post where someone has posted a 'job for a fulltime Virtual Assistant'. Before any of you get excited, let me tell you why this is not a good idea. First and foremost, Virtual Assistants are business owner/operators - they provide a service to other business owner/operators. Several - not one. - [Niche VA - transcriptions](https://www.vadirectory.net/niche-va-transcriptions/) - Transcription work is popular and plenty. From private individuals reciting their memoirs, to authors writing a new book, minutes of meetings, conference recordings, police reports, legal meetings, medical reports and so on, there is a growing need for conversations and public events to be recorded and then transcribed. Even podcasts and webinars. So, the need - [Virtual Assistants add value to your business](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistants-add-value-to-your-business/) - The value of a Virtual Assistant is being widely acknowledged now, although there are still many business owners who are learning all about our industry. I recently shifted to a new BNI chapter closer to home and there are quite a few categories in that chapter that are perfect 'power partners' for my Virtual Assistant - [Check your facts!](https://www.vadirectory.net/check-your-facts/) - Been involved in an interesting discussion on a LinkedIn forum. Not relating to Virtual Assistance at all but rather my passion, photography. However, what has been taking place there is something we all need to be mindful of as Virtual Assistants and therefore often as advisors to our clients. I thought I should share my - [Let people know who you are](https://www.vadirectory.net/let-people-know-who-you-are/) - There seems to be this 'new' phenomenon where people email me or respond to an email and then not sign off their name. They make an assumption I know who it is. Often I have an email address and sometimes a business name but those things don't always clue me in as to who wrote - [Real Estate VA - niche](https://www.vadirectory.net/real-estate-va-niche/) - There are VAs who specifically support Realtors in the day-to-day running of their businesses. It's much more prevalent in the US than here in Australia, however there are VAs here who do support Real Estate agents. And I believe this is slowly growing. I've begun supporting a local agent recently and am learning about their - [17 years ago today...](https://www.vadirectory.net/17-years-ago-today/) - I nervously and excitedly made my way into the city of Melbourne to register my new business. I hadn't wanted to share my business name idea with anyone, in case someone else beat me to it. Little did I know what might transpire in the years to come and how my business name would be - [Australian VA Conference one week away](https://www.vadirectory.net/australian-va-conference-one-week-away/) - Well, the second annual Australian VA Conference is just a week away. Although the numbers still aren't as high as I would like them (well into the triple figures) they are still higher than they were last year, and we're thrilled about that. We're delighted that IVAA is our major sponsor and that they are - [Now that AVAC's over...](https://www.vadirectory.net/now-that-avacs-over/) - We can get back to the business of working in our businesses. The two day conference was fantastic and feedback from the delegates indicate that they were very happy with the event. I do know from the very start there was an excited buzz in the air that remained with the event all the way - [Working with a Virtual Assistant - do you know what's involved?](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-with-a-virtual-assistant-do-you-know-whats-involved/) - I often get emails or phone calls asking me what's involved in working with a Virtual Assistant, what do we do, how can we help the caller, and how does it work? Many find it a struggle to get over the hump relating to working virtually. It's really quite simple once you know how to - [Using Facebook for business](https://www.vadirectory.net/using-facebook-for-business/) - As many business owner/operators have done, I've turned to Facebook for networking opportunities. When I first started using Facebook a few years ago I set up two profiles - one for personal use and one for business. I didn't want to confuse personal stuff with business stuff and really didn't want my business contacts seeing - [Whatever happened to professionalism?](https://www.vadirectory.net/whatever-happened-to-professionalism/) - aaarrghh! I can't believe how many emails I get these days where people do not sign off, or include contact details. What is wrong with people these days? Is email no longer considered a professional way of contacting others? What am I talking about? Signature blocks. I receive emails from Virtual Assistants, from service and - [Famous people at LinkedIn](https://www.vadirectory.net/famous-people-at-linkedin/) - I did a double take when I saw the latest selection of 'people you might know' this morning at LinkedIn. I bet you recognise some of these names too? Obviously an April Fool's joke - although it's now April 2nd in Australia. Or perhaps LinkedIn has found a way to resurrect people too. Wonder how - [Virtual Assistant NFP group opens in Australia](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-nfp-group-opens-in-australia/) - At long last, we have an NFP setting up here in Australia for the Virtual Assistant Industry. And I am delighted that IVAA has taken this direction. This announcement was published shortly before AVAC but I was rather busy to post it at that time. Details below: IVAA-Australia - in our ongoing efforts to expand - [Can you follow instructions?](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-seeking-va-work/) - May I encourage all new and prospective VAs out there, to carefully read web pages before filling out forms and pressing submit. Just recently I got told by a prospective VA that I was rude and she wouldn't want to work for my company anyway. Why did she say this to me (via email)? Because - [Invite your clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/invite-your-clients/) - As many of you know we recently had the Australian VA Conference take place in Melbourne. We had a wonderful array of speakers and also sponsors. One of those sponsors was so fired up by the conference that she has begun spruiking the benefits of using a Virtual Assistant and what takes place in our - [Tools Virtual Assistants love to use - Gmail](https://www.vadirectory.net/tools-virtual-assistants-love-to-use-gmail/) - I began using gmail in 2009 when I knew I was going overseas for a Virtual Assistant conference. I wanted to manage my email in a web based facility and because I have several email addresses and domains, I didn't want to be logging in and out of several sites. Research indicated that Gmail could - [Work your database and it will work for you](https://www.vadirectory.net/work-your-database-and-it-will-work-for-you/) - Virtual Assistants! And small business owner operators! Do you have a database? You do? Do you use it? I'm a keen advocate for networking, both online and offline, as it's important to keep meeting people and to keep letting them know you exist. You need to be visible - not invisible. What amazes me is - [Tools Virtual Assistants love to use - Dropbox](https://www.vadirectory.net/tools-virtual-assistants-love-to-use-dropbox/) - File storage and backup is an important part of the life of a Virtual Assistant. It's something we discuss regularly at the VA forums and a question that is frequently asked by those new to the industry. Enter Dropbox. I first discovered Dropbox when looking at online facilities for photosharing and storage. I wanted to - [Always moving onto the next thing...](https://www.vadirectory.net/always-moving-onto-the-next-thing/) - Have you found that? It's only April and so far this year I've organised and run a Conference for the VA industry (with help of course). The lead up and the wrap of the event, not to mention attending it, tended to take away time from working with clients. I did let them know in - [Working at home has other benefits](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-at-home-has-other-benefits/) - I don't wish anything bad upon you at all, but I do wish to share my own experience with you, and the reason why my posts suddenly stopped their usual 2-3 times a week. I had preposted when my husband and I were away on holiday with intentions to write more once I was back - [IVAA Australia](https://www.vadirectory.net/ivaa-australia/) - With everything that's been going on in the past few months (AVAC, a holiday, my husband's accident and the list goes on) I've not been as active here as I normally would be and haven't been telling you everything that's been going on. IVAA has set up an Australian division to give Australian VAs a - [Be careful when giving advice](https://www.vadirectory.net/be-careful-when-giving-advice/) - I've seen it on blogs, in newsletters and on forums. Well meaning people giving advice that is ok for some people but not for all. Be careful that when giving advice to others that you're not steering them in the wrong direction. Particularly if that advice relates to your region and not others. The web - [My absence](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-absence/) - Apologies to my regular readers and others. My absence hasn't been intended and I know it's been an important time for our industry just in the past week with OIVAC and International VA Day. I was supposed to be involved. A couple of posts ago I shared that my husband had had a serious accident - [Graduate Sustainability Business Program](https://www.vadirectory.net/graduate-sustainability-business-program/) - I'm delighted to let you know that I recently graduated after doing the Sustainability Business Program that the Yarra Ranges Council puts on for businesses in their region. This is a govt subsidised program so it has the backing of the Australian government. Why would I participate in such a program? Because I saw it - [Be specific](https://www.vadirectory.net/be-specific-2/) - This is probably a post directed more at clients, rather than VAs, but it is important for all to note. When responding to someone via email, make sure you address which parts of the email you are responding to. Just to explain. Someone emailed me asking to change something I was doing for them next - [Using a database](https://www.vadirectory.net/using-a-database/) - I was chatting to one of the members of my BNI chapter last week and during that conversation, I came to a realisation that not everyone understands what a database might consist of and how it can be used. In particular we'd been talking about his database and using Send Out Cards. He is interested - [Using a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/using-a-virtual-assistant/) - Even though the Virtual Assistant industry is in its teens, there are still many business owner/operators out there who don't know how to use a VA or what a VA might be. Because there has been much written about it both online and in printed material, some of the information has been misconstrued or people - [Do they walk their talk?](https://www.vadirectory.net/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, - [How is your mindset?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-is-your-mindset/) - Periodically I feel the need to touch on this subject. I see business coaches talking to other business people about this also. The importance of your mindset when running a business. As with any industry, it's not just about how well you do a particular thing, or how much you know about it, it is - [The Etiquette of Approaches](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-etiquette-of-approaches/) - Recently I've had approaches from a couple of people asking me to participate in a survey. Now, there's nothing really strange about that, except that neither of these people identified who they are, what the survey actually is about, or why they were asking me. Simply, they sent a message asking me (almost demanding) to - [How many clients should you have?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-many-clients-should-you-have/) - Getting your first client is an exciting thing, but scary also, and can take quite sometime to achieve. However, it is not time to relax after gaining this client. You need to continue marketing and find other clients and as each one comes along it gets easier and easier. You gain more confidence in the - [Keep your VA for long-term](https://www.vadirectory.net/keep-your-va-for-long-term/) - It disturbs me when I see people complaining that they'd just 'trained their VA' only to lose them because they'd been 'promoted' to another project or client. I have to question where they got their 'VA' from in the first place. Virtual Assistants are self-employed business owner/operators, so in general are not placed with clients - [Avoiding the Office Blues](https://www.vadirectory.net/avoiding-the-office-blues/) - This is something I've written about in the past but it's a good topic and it's raised its head again, this time via Melbourne's Newspaper The Age. Working at home alone isn't for everyone. It's not just the 'running a business' and keeping track of your finances, but more the day-to-day aloneness inside the four - [When is the right time?](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-is-the-right-time/) - A new virtual assistant recently posted at the VA forum that she was giving up her regular temp work so she could concentrate on developing her new VA business and get it running. Many of the VAs on the list congratulated her and encouraged her. It's a big step and a scary one. I remember - [How to get your first client as a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-to-get-your-first-client-as-a-virtual-assistant/) - One question that is often asked on VA forums is 'how do I get my first client?' and the answers are always forthcoming from those who have already been there. When the new VA gets the answers they nearly always balk at the prospect of having to go out and meet people and network. I - [Do you remember your first client?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-remember-your-first-client/) - Some great topics are discussed at the VA forums. This was one of them and it was interesting to see how each VA got started on their journey in business. For me, it was through my church - even before my business had been started. A man knew I was a secretary at work and - [Making your clients work](https://www.vadirectory.net/making-your-clients-work/) - What? Your clients need to work? But aren't you, their VA, doing it all for them? Up to a point. I often smile to myself when having phone meetings with clients. We have an action list of items for me to attend to, but at the end of the discussion, the client often has their - [Affiliate programs do work!](https://www.vadirectory.net/affiliate-programs-do-work/) - Virtual Assistants work from home based offices, so it's natural that the industry would attract those who are keen to work from home, and be present for their family members. Family are the very reason why I work from home. I wanted to be here for my 5 daughters while they were in school. They're - [What if...?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-if/) - On a VA forum a new VA has been asking questions of those who have been a Virtual Assistant for more than 12 months. She wanted to know how they have found it and whether it would work for her. Other VAs have joined in the conversation, particularly other newbies planning to take the same - [I'm new in business and want to get started](https://www.vadirectory.net/im-new-in-business-and-want-to-get-started/) - This is a common question for those new to the Virtual Assistant business. How do they find clients? Should they be networking? Do they really have to go out and meet people? What about those sites where you have to pay to get work and so on. Networking is paramount, both online and offline. If - [Virtual Assistant - are you going it alone?](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-are-you-going-it-alone/) - Being in business is tough any time. You have to wear multiple hats, or be able to employ sufficient people to wear all those hats: CEO/Owner, marketer & promotions/PR, bookkeeper, database manager, worker, and so it goes on. I still hear from those who have been operating a Virtual Assistant business entirely on their own, - [Setting goals for your VA business](https://www.vadirectory.net/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 - [Sick scam](https://www.vadirectory.net/sick-scam/) - I've been the victim of a very sick scam. I really don't understand why or what. But I wanted to share it with you so you can be wary, in case it happens to you. Middle of July a new affiliate signed up. Nothing unusual about that. I get affiliates signing up with my site - [Commitment - it's a big word](https://www.vadirectory.net/commitment-its-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 - [Remember, you're on duty 24/7](https://www.vadirectory.net/remember-youre-on-duty-247/) - 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, - [Are you on Google+ yet?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-on-google-yet/) - I am, however I'm as yet undecided about the usefulness of it. I know that there are over 20million people on it already even though it's in Beta form. I do understand how the circles work and find that could be a useful tool. But do I need another social media tool? Who am I - [Sign off your emails!](https://www.vadirectory.net/sign-off-your-emails/) - This is a message for anyone in business - Virtual Assistants, their clients and others. Please sign off your emails properly. Even if you have an existing relationship with someone you're emailing, it still makes sense to use your signature. Why? Because not everyone remembers your phone number off by heart, or has it in - [Do you have a Virtual Assistant yet?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-have-a-virtual-assistant-yet/) - I guess I shouldn't be really, but I still get amazed when I meet people, or hear from them via the phone or online, that they've just discovered our industry. They'd not heard of a Virtual Assistant before and didn't know what it was. Having been part of the industry since its birth many years - [When flattery will get you nowhere (and cost you money)](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-flattery-will-get-you-nowhere-and-cost-you-money/) - When you have a presence online there will come a time when the thieves come out of the woods and make themselves known. More like wolves in sheep's clothing. They will butter you up and tell you how fantastic you are and convince you that you should part with your hard-earned money to invest in - [Who do you know?](https://www.vadirectory.net/who-do-you-know/) - Over the years I've become known as someone who knows someone when someone might be looking for someone. Are you still with me? ;-) I believe in networking - it has helped build my business and builds the business of countless others around the world. There are some really good business networks out there that - [How easy do you make it for your customers?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-easy-do-you-make-it-for-your-customers/) - My husband is a ham radio operator. He was perusing websites recently looking for some equipment to further his hobby. He was looking at sites here in Australia as well as overseas. He found one based in Sydney that had what he wanted BUT, they had no shopping cart set up for their long list - [What can a Virtual Assistant (VA) do for you?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-can-a-virtual-assistant-va-do-for-you/) - Virtual Assistants look after a wide range of clients. My own core client base consists mainly of business coaches, professional speakers and authors, but I have a few others who do different things, such as a couple of nurses who run workshops for new parents, a lady who is a trained operatic singer and another - [Special offers for Virtual Assistants and their clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/special-offers-for-virtual-assistants-and-their-clients/) - You may remember my mention recently of a 'sick scam' where an affiliate was processing orders using stolen credit cards on my shopping cart on this site. Not a nice thing to happen and I'm still getting things sorted and processing refunds as people contact me. I can say the bank hasn't been as helpful - [Want to set up a Virtual Assistant business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/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 - [Virtual Assistants - use your own domain for email](https://www.vadirectory.net/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 - [Joining a Virtual Assistant Network makes sense](https://www.vadirectory.net/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 - [Should I charge low?](https://www.vadirectory.net/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 - [The etiquette of posting on Facebook page walls](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-etiquette-of-posting-on-facebook-page-walls/) - I logged into my business page last week and was surprised with a promotion for a service by someone else that I hadn't put on my wall. What disgruntled me was that I also provide that same service (Wordpress Training) and I thought that person had a cheek promoting on my wall to all my - [Twitter 4 VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/twitter-4-vas/) - Networking is such a useful thing to do. Less than two weeks ago I attended the 90 Day Networking Event in Melbourne, being held by Networking World. I met quite a few people (there were over 150 in attendance) and have connected with some of them since. One of these people is Keith Keller, whom - [Why would you join BNI?](https://www.vadirectory.net/why-would-you-join-bni/) - There's been a discussion on a VA forum recently about the value of joining BNI as a Virtual Assistant. If you don't know what BNI is it stands for Business Network International and can be found at www.bni.com internationally or here in Australia, bni.com.au. I belong to the Melbourne East region. I joined when it - [Call me a snob, but...](https://www.vadirectory.net/call-me-a-snob-but/) - If someone sends me an email (unsolicited) promoting their products and expecting some interest and hopefully a sale, wouldn't it be in their business interests to sign off their name properly, add their business name (if they have one), include contact details (other than a generic email) and perhaps even a website? I mean, if - [Twitter for Virtual Assistants webinar](https://www.vadirectory.net/twitter-for-virtual-assistants-webinar/) - If you've been wondering whether or not to provide social media services for your clients and where to begin, then this webinar will be very timely for you. I met Keith Keller at a recent Networking World event and we found a perfect synergy with what he does and what I do. I've been assisting - [My birthday but you get the gift!](https://www.vadirectory.net/my-birthday-but-you-get-the-gift/) - It's my birthday this week so I thought I'd give away a gift to those seeking to get some Virtual Assistant training. For one week only! Sign up this week and get the course at 33% discount! You want to become a Virtual Assistant but don’t know where to start? Then this program is a - [Why does it cost to join a VA network?](https://www.vadirectory.net/why-does-it-cost-to-join-a-va-network/) - At a VA discussion group a question similar to this was asked. The new VA said it was a problem that every network costs to join and she wanted to find a free one or if she could have her dues deducted later once she got paying clients. This was my response to her - - [The Challenges of being a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-challenges-of-being-a-va/) - We had our weekly IVAA Oz Coffee Chat last night. A new event now happening Monday evenings, Melbourne time @5.30pm. All VAs are welcome - you don't have to be an IVAA member to participate. The discussion last night was really good. One of the VAs spoke of a major client who had gone bust - [Getting the right support for your business](https://www.vadirectory.net/getting-the-right-support-for-you-business/) - I mentioned the IVAA Oz Coffee Chat we had the other night and the discussion about a number of VAs losing a major client. One of the other things discussed that night was finding a suitable Accountant for our businesses. I'm amazed at the number of VAs who don't have an Accountant. When you're new - [Professional Development for Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/professional-development-for-virtual-assistants/) - 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 - [Where do your clients hang out?](https://www.vadirectory.net/where-do-your-clients-hang-out/) - When you're a new Virtual Assistant, it can sometimes be difficult to determine where to find your potential clients. All the obvious things come to mind: newspapers, flyers, Yellow Pages, noticeboards. Some of these things cost money and some don't - just a bit of time and effort. But there are other things you can - [When you start a business](https://www.vadirectory.net/when-you-start-a-business/) - There seems to be a wave of new Virtual Assistants entering the industry that have an inaccurate understanding of what a VA is and what they're supposed to be doing as a VA. Which is a shame as this just adds more confusion to clients as well. Let's get it straight. A Virtual Assistant IS - [Virtual Assistance - Is it a steady income?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-it-a-steady-income/) - This was the question I was asked by a lady recently, who is looking to become a Virtual Assistant. She is thinking of joining my Virtual Assistant Network and wanted some assurance that she would earn an income. This is not an uncommon question and I thought I'd share my answer with you all here - [More on finding clients for Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/more-on-finding-clients/) - I thought I would share more on finding clients as a Virtual Assistant. We've touched on all the regular things and most of all networking - I believe that many don't fully understand the value and importance of real time face-to-face networking. Why ignore a good percentage of your potential client audience that is close - [Let a Virtual Assistant help you grow your business](https://www.vadirectory.net/let-a-virtual-assistant-help-you-grow-your-business/) - The term 'Virtual Assistant' has been around for quite a few years now. Although I do regularly come across people who have only just heard of us, through a book, a newspaper article, or because they had an idea about working from home, started researching and discovered a whole 'new' industry they didn't know about. - [Virtual Assistant blog now 6.5 years old](https://www.vadirectory.net/6-12-years-old/) - This blog was started in April 2005. I had no idea when I started writing it how long the blog would go for and yet here it is with almost 800 entries. My most popular posts over those years have been: 5 Top Ways to Use a Virtual Assistant My heartfelt thanks to the Virtual - [Being a VA does not mean working home alone](https://www.vadirectory.net/being-a-va-does-not-mean-working-home-alone/) - I saw an interesting 'side' comment from a VA at one of the VA networks this morning. She'd commented about how unselfish and sharing the VA community has been to her and that although she works at home alone, as we all do, she felt she had a number of allies to call upon. And - [Become a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/become-a-virtual-assistant/) - It's getting that time of year when many start looking at what they will do in the New Year. One of those things often means planning a change in jobs, or even branching out to run your own business. If you have good computer skills, with a background in admin or office support based work, - [Australian VA Conference is on again!](https://www.vadirectory.net/australian-va-conference-is-on-again/) - Well, it's going to be on again. The Australian VA Conference (AVAC) will take place in Melbourne on 4-5 May 2012. We decided on the date change to allow time for bookings to come in and hopefully some delegates from other countries as well. It's certainly open to all VAs to attend in person so - [The year is almost over...](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-year-is-almost-over/) - Don't let your chances to build a Virtual Assistant business for the new year pass! If you have been considering working from home but don't know how to get started, or perhaps you have started but feel you need a guiding hand, then my VATrainer course is exactly what you need! And at this time - [Don't stop!!!](https://www.vadirectory.net/dont-stop/) - It's a busy time of year isn't it? Here in Australia many businesses are winding down for the year with Christmas/New Year and Summer holidays just around the corner. And let's face it, if you've had a busy year with barely a break, the need for rest and relaxation is most important. I am taking - [The end of another year... almost](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-end-of-another-year-almost/) - Those of my readers who mix in the social media circles or forums to which I belong will know I had an accident on 12th December. The rest of you probably don't. Rather than repeat it all here I encourage you to visit my photography blog to read all about it. Because, after all, I - [Punctuation and transcriptions](https://www.vadirectory.net/punctuation-and-transcriptions/) - Do you have challenges with working out the punctuation in a transcription you're doing for a client? It's not always easy to know when you should be putting a semi-colon or a colon, a fullstop (period) or a comma and so on. I've heard the occasional person actually dictate when a fullstop should be used - [Are you prepared for the responsibility?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-prepared-for-the-responsibility/) - I saw a question at answers.yahoo where a woman was asking about becoming a Virtual Assistant. She's keen to find work she can do at home and had been doing some research and discovered the term 'virtual assistant'. She wanted to know if she could become one and how to get started. I answered her - [Australian VA Conference 2012](https://www.vadirectory.net/australian-va-conference-2012/) - Have you caught up with the news yet? The 2012 Australian VA Conference will be held in Melbourne, Australia 4-5 May. We elected to shift to the May date because of problems with the March date we'd been having for the past couple of years. Proposals are in from speakers, we'll be announcing our program - [Starting off the new year](https://www.vadirectory.net/starting-off-the-new-year/) - If you're like me, you may have been spending the past week still on a holiday break, knowing full well that work was just around the corner. So, now it's time to really take stock of what is ahead, or perhaps outstanding, to get the year started off right. Here are a few hints and - [Just getting started - what's the best way to find clients?](https://www.vadirectory.net/just-getting-started-whats-the-best-way-to-find-clients/) - This is a comment/question I see regularly via forums, and particularly at LinkedIn. People just starting out in the Virtual Assistant industry but not sure how to source clients and build their client base. This question can actually apply to anyone in business - not just the Virtual Assistant industry. But since I write for - [As a new VA, I can't afford a website](https://www.vadirectory.net/as-a-new-va-i-cant-afford-a-website/) - I've been corresponding with a couple of new Virtual Assistants over the past couple of weeks. They found me via different VA forums and started emailing me for advice. One said she couldn't afford a website yet and was asking me what she could do to promote her business online. This is my response to - [Phone access for clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/phone-access-for-clients/) - I've chosen not to use my mobile (cell) phone for my VA business. Why? Because I'm in my office 95% of the time anyway and they can get me via the landline and email - why do I need them calling on my mobile phone too? I use the mobile phone for personal use only, - [What would I do if I were a new VA today?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-would-i-do-if-i-were-a-new-va-today/) - Exactly the question asked on a VA forum sometime ago and here is my answer: Find an accountant to get the advice that is needed regarding legal requirements for your business. Apply for whatever licenses or register whatever you need to do legally regarding the tax dept for your region. A business name can wait - [The importance of follow up](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-importance-of-follow-up-3/) - I often tell my team, particularly newer members, how important it is to follow up new clients after an enquiry has been made. Often the clients are either in overwhelm mode: too much to do, or panic mode: the work needed to be done yesterday. Consequently when a message is left on their voicemail, or - [Are you an Aussie VA that runs events?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-an-aussie-va-that-runs-events/) - Came across a great site this week, when helping a client organise an event he was promoting. He wanted to take bookings online and make it as painless as possible. He'd been told of a couple of sites by associates and I tried one of them out for him yesterday when sending out a broadcast - [What is your VA business worth to you?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-is-your-va-business-worth-to-you/) - I can't answer that question, only you can. But I can tell you what it's been worth to me. Almost 18 years at home working fulltime, instead of in someone else's office. No more wasted time travelling to and fro. Being present for my family when they've really needed me. Not having to ask for - [What is a Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-is-a-virtual-assistant-2/) - I can tell you what a Virtual Assistant (VA) isn't: Not an iphone4 Siri Not any other machine, mobile or android app, or anything like that, although we do use technology Not an automated online service Not an employee - we invoice our clients directly and not through an agency or some other type of - [Need a Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/need-a-virtual-assistant/) - Overflowing in paperwork? Don't know how to use the software? Need more time with your own clients? Originally providing admin & secretarial support, we provide a much wider range of services today. These include: data entry and database management, website design and management, social media support (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter), blog maintenance, bookkeeping, research, transcriptions, virtual - [Looking for Virtual Assistant work?](https://www.vadirectory.net/looking-for-virtual-assistant-work-2/) - If you have good office based skills, chances are you could become a Virtual Assistant and work at home fulltime. Thousands are doing it, so why not you? I celebrate 18 years of fulltime business this month (on the 24th to be exact). While it's not all been a bed of roses I can tell - [Celebrating 18 years in business](https://www.vadirectory.net/celebrating-18-years-in-business/) - Hi everyone, 24th March marks the 18th anniversary of my business being opened. It was National Secretaries Day on 24 March 1994 when I registered my business "A Clayton's Secretary" and officially announced to the world that I was open for business. Well, announced to anyone I met in Melbourne, Australia, really. The internet wasn't - [Tips for working with a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tips-for-working-with-a-va-2/) - Looking to engage a Virtual Assistant but not sure what to expect? The tips below are designed to help you enjoy the experience! Each Virtual Assistant works as an independent contractor in their own business. Some work full-time and some part-time and also in temporary positions. Because they work independently, prices may vary so feel free to - [Watch your language!](https://www.vadirectory.net/watch-your-language/) - As Virtual Assistants we are constantly using the written word to communicate with clients, potential clients, our peers and others online. We help our clients reach out to their clients as well and use many different mediums to achieve this. Ways to do this include blog posts and e-newsletters. The thing we have to remember - [Anniversary Celebrations III](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-celebrations-iii/) - By now you will have gotten the idea that a few lucky VAs have gone into the draw for various prizes (gifts) to help me celebrate my 18 years in business. What have I got in store this week? Jan King has been kind enough to offer a complimentary copy of her course "Virtual Assistant - [National Secretaries Day dates](https://www.vadirectory.net/national-secretaries-day-dates/) - I noticed that many people have been researching the dates for National Secretaries Day - which is in fact, "Administrative Professionals Day" these days. The official dates in the US for the next few years are: April 25, 2012; April 24, 2013; April 23, 2014; April 22, 2015 The International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) - [18 years today!](https://www.vadirectory.net/18-years-today/) - Hi everyone, today is my 18th anniversary of when I registered my business (on National Secretaries Day in Australia) and opened the doors to "A Clayton's Secretary". I had no idea what was about to be birthed only a short time later - the world wide web and a brand new industry - The Virtual - [Anniversary celebrations II](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-celebrations-ii/) - Week two of my anniversary celebrations. What will I give away to a lucky new VA this week? You may be aware that I provide a 10 week coaching course guiding those who want to be a VA and don't know where to start, or simply filling in the gaps for those who have been - [Competition winners](https://www.vadirectory.net/competition-winners/) - I haven't forgotten! Just had a busy few weeks. With the Australian VA Conference almost upon us, plus a regular workload, not to mention other things happening in my life (I have a daughter getting married in a few weeks) life has been extremely busy. However, here are the winners from the competition posts during - [Virtual Assistants - Network or Agency?](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistants-network-or-agency/) - I often get new VAs, or those planning to become a VA, contacting me to find out whether they should be joining my VA Network, or for advice about another group they are thinking of joining. I don't mind people contacting me to ask these questions and I'm always happy to help and give guidance. - [Anniversary Celebrations IV](https://www.vadirectory.net/anniversary-celebrations-iv/) - This is the last week of celebrations for my business anniversary of 18 years, which was two days ago. So, what can I give to any VA that they would really appreciate and value. I don't want to disadvantage existing VAs and want to open it to all VAs, new and experienced. I thought about - [Commitment - is it a dirty word?](https://www.vadirectory.net/commitment-is-it-a-dirty-word/) - I don't believe it is but there seems to be a wave of people who work for themselves that lack a dedication to commitment. I have no idea why. The way I see it is that if you are providing a service to consumers (clients) then your word should hold and you should commit to - [Australian VA Conference only a month away!](https://www.vadirectory.net/australian-va-conference-only-a-month-away/) - It's not long now till the 3rd Annual VA Conference takes place. It doesn't seem that long since the last one and here it is again. Are you ready for it? Have you booked yet? Click on the image below to find out full details and register today. It's not too late and we would - [Learnings in the VA Industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/learnings-in-the-va-industry/) - The Australian VA Conference is literally only 3 weeks away - well, a bit less than that as it will start 3 weeks today. eek! Not that far away! I can tell you the AVAC committee and I are working behind the scenes to get everything ready for you and in place, and we are - [How do I become a Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-i-become-a-virtual-assistant/) - I get asked this question often and thought I'd share some hints and tips on things you can do if you would like to pursue this career. First you must have good computer skills but not only that, a good knowledge of how to do things online as well. They're not difficult things but if - [eziStart Social Media](https://www.vadirectory.net/ezistart-social-media/) - Some of you will be aware that I'm a member of a local BNI chapter as their Virtual Assistant representative. One of the members there, who is the resident website designer came up with a brilliant idea some months ago called eziStart. The idea is that a number of services is provided by a small - [Moonlighting as a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/moonlighting-as-a-virtual-assistant/) - I became aware of discussion about an article regarding Moonlighting as a VA. I haven't seen the original article but did see the comments and hope that the writers will see my post as I'm unable to leave a comment on the site where I saw them. I've been running a Virtual Assistant practice for - [Are you a mum who wants to work at home?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-a-mum-who-wants-to-work-at-home/) - Last weekend it was Mother's Day in many countries around the world. I was privileged to be asked to give the message for that day at my church, based on my own personal experiences of the Proverbs 31 Woman, whom I believe to be a work at home mum in biblical days. I had written - [How do I get clients as a Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-i-get-clients-as-a-virtual-assistant/) - A question I see over and over again at various VA forums. Here is my answer: Networking is very important when running a business, any business. Businesses only succeed if they have clients. It's why you see advertisements in magazines, newspapers and on TV and why you hear them on the radio. It's why there - [New Virtual Assistant Forum](https://www.vadirectory.net/new-virtual-assistant-forum/) - Over the past month I've been setting up a new board forum for Virtual Assistants. While it has been primarily built with ACS members in mind, there is a portion of the forum that is open to any and all VAs. It is the VA Directory Forum and you are invited to come and check - [A non-negotiable thought...](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-non-negotiable-thought/) - Hi everyone, we're back from the Australian VA Conference and I think this would have to be the best one yet. They've all been good but they get better and better! Below you can see a photo of the group at the end of the first day - we were definitely having a good time. - [So glad I work at home](https://www.vadirectory.net/so-glad-i-work-at-home/) - You know, in the busy-ness of our lives, even in running our own businesses, it's sometimes easy to lose sight of our blessings. In this case, just being able to work at home. I had to be up at 5am today. That's not much earlier than a normal morning for me. I'm often awake at - [Speaking of working at home...](https://www.vadirectory.net/speaking-of-working-at-home/) - A couple of days ago I shared how much I love working at home and that I don't miss the traffic out there at all. However, there are days (very occasional) when working at home can prove to be a challenge. Today was one of them. We got a letter a week ago to say - [Beware of job scams](https://www.vadirectory.net/beware-of-job-scams/) - I had someone fill out my job request form the other day and I asked for more information before sending it out. It’s not unusual for clients to be vague when filling out the form so I usually do ask for more info when that’s the case. Glad I did as what she is outlining - [Have the networking rules changed for a top networking site?](https://www.vadirectory.net/has-linkedin-changed-its-rules/) - LinkedIn has grown to an enormous professional networking site with over 150million members now. It was only a few short years ago that I began to take it seriously and there were just over 14million in those days. There was a time when receiving an invitation to connect at LinkedIn, that LinkedIn would have a - [The Faceless People at LinkedIn](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-faceless-people/) - Social and business networks offer the opportunity for people to show their faces online when connecting with others. Which is why they have a place for uploading your photo. On social networks people often use images of their pets, favourite artists or their kids but when it comes to something relating to their business I - [Why did you start your Virtual Assistant business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/why-did-you-start-your-business/) - I was asked that question at a forum. Well, not me personally, but all the members of the forum. Got me thinking why I got started. I could sum it all up with just one word... frustration! There were lots of other reasons but frustration probably sums it up well. I was frustrated with growing - [Building relationships at LinkedIn](https://www.vadirectory.net/building-relationships-at-linkedin/) - I was participating in a discussion at the Women in Photography group at LinkedIn recently as many of us are connecting to each other. We had a discussion about the importance of letting people know where they came from, rather than just send the standard invitation that LinkedIn provides. Here is my commentary on that - [Confused with marketing your VA business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/confused-with-marketing-your-va-business/) - If you're not clear on what it is you do, or perhaps not clear on how to explain it, it will show, both in your vocalisation and your written word. Recently a new VA went to a networking event and she was unsure how to explain what she does. The people she was meeting with - [7 Questions to consider before hiring a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/questions-you-should-ask-before-hiring-a-virtual-assistant/) - The Virtual Assistant industry has grown so much in the past 10 years that it's easy to understand that clients might get confused about where to find a Virtual Assistant and how to know if they've got a good one. There are some things you can do to put your mind at ease. Firstly, did - [Top FAQs for Virtual Assistant Clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/top-faqs-for-virtual-assistant-clients/) - Do you have an FAQ page on your Virtual Assistant website? Have you considered the possible questions that might be asked of you about how working with a VA would work for a potential client? Because I manage a network for VAs as well as provide a service for clients from my site I have - [Saying No to a Client](https://www.vadirectory.net/saying-no-to-a-client/) - I received a newsletter during the week from a coach who was talking about the very topic of this blog post. It raised an important aspect and that is not all clients are a good fit for us as Virtual Assistants. I know if cash flow is slow, our businesses are new or going through - [Top FAQs for Clients II](https://www.vadirectory.net/top-faqs-for-clients-ii/) - Last week I shared on the top 4 questions (as asked of me) from clients seeking to engage the services of a Virtual Assistant. Here are more questions asked, not necessarily on my site, sometimes on forums. Where can I find a Virtual Assistant? This question always amazes me because it's very simple to put - [What's in a forum?](https://www.vadirectory.net/whats-in-a-forum/) - There are quite a few VA forums on the web these days. Which indicates that the industry is healthy and growing and there's a need for VAs to seek assistance, advice and support, as they build and develop their VA practices. For a long time I've been a fan of the email based forums, mainly - [Take Ownership of your Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/take-ownership-of-your-business/) - There are many joining our ranks on a daily basis, and the same could be said for many industries. The desire for being in control of one's future, the work they do, and who they work for, plus being able to choose their working hours are a driving force for people making that decision. I - [Saying thank you to clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/saying-thank-you-to-clients/) - A couple of years ago I joined Send Out Cards, which is a company that allows you to design cards, or use existing templates, to send out cards to anyone you wish via their website. Good quality printed cards at a low price. I began using it as I wanted to get cards printed with - [Saying thank you to clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/saying-thank-you-to-clients/) - A couple of years ago I joined Send Out Cards, which is a company that allows you to design cards, or use existing templates, to send out cards to anyone you wish via their website. Good quality printed cards at a low price. I began using it as I wanted to get cards printed with - [Small Business Vic is here again... soon](https://www.vadirectory.net/small-business-vic-is-here-again-soon/) - Each August Victoria's Small Business Festival is put on throughout the whole month. Some councils are very actively involved and I've recently received notification from the City of Knox about events they have on. Of course, you'll be able to look up events happening in your area if you live elsewhere in Victoria. And for - [Should we drop the "Virtual Assistant" title?](https://www.vadirectory.net/should-we-drop-the-virtual-assistant-title/) - This question, or variations of it, I've seen on many VA forums. It gets hashed over and over again and in the end, there is no foregone conclusion. Personally I don't know why it keeps getting raised. I could understand it being raised back in the mid 90s when we first began to use it. - [How much business are you getting from business groups?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-much-business-are-you-getting-from-business-groups/) - I saw a question relating to this at a (non-VA) forum that I belong to but felt that the question is also relevant to Virtual Assistants. The person in question felt that joining this group and that one and another was costing him a lot of money and he wasn't sure he was getting any - [Desktop or laptop?](https://www.vadirectory.net/desktop-or-laptop/) - For a long time I was an advocate for the desktop, and only took my laptop to client meetings (very occasionally) or when my husband and I would go away on holidays. Not so I could do work, but so I could store photos that I take during our time away. Outside of work I'm - [Forums or Networks and how many should I join?](https://www.vadirectory.net/forums-or-networks-and-how-many-should-i-join/) - This is a question I see asked on many VA forums. The reality is that it's important for you to share and learn from your peers, but also make sure you're getting exposure for your business too. I belong to several forums and participate at each one from time to time, but not every day - [Are you running a charity or a business?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-running-a-charity-or-a-business/) - I participate in several VA forums to share information and learn from others and it's at these places that some of my material for this blog comes from. One recurring theme or should I say 'thought' is the one that makes VAs, particularly newer ones, think they should be able to get stuff cheap or - [Helping clients with Social Media](https://www.vadirectory.net/helping-clients-with-social-media/) - This was a discussion at a LinkedIn group and below is my response on how I think about helping clients with Social Media. Your comments are most welcome - you may, or may not, agree with me. Then why not let me, and our readers know? "It's hard with social media. It's a networking - [10 Tips for Getting Started as a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-getting-started-checklist/) - You've decided you want to become a Virtual Assistant but now what to do next? There's lots of information out there, some of it conflicting, and it's hard to know what to decide upon. Well, providing you have a good computer, reliable internet connection and a decent printer you're part of the way there, but - [GoDaddy server down](https://www.vadirectory.net/godaddy-server-down/) - I've been seeing messages at Facebook that people’s websites are down because GoDaddy’s server got hacked. There’s an article here about it. This is a worry, obviously, to anyone who has their sites hosted there. But then it doesn’t really matter where our sites are hosted, are they truly safe? For as long as the - [Tips for building your Virtual Assistant career](https://www.vadirectory.net/tips-for-building-your-virtual-assistant-career/) - As long as you are confident with your current set of skills, then you have a starting point. You should (obviously) already have a good computer at home, reliable internet connection and the necessary hardware and software to complement those skills. Mixing and mingling with others via VA forums is a good thing to do. - [Got a listing with Hotfrog?](https://www.vadirectory.net/got-a-listing-with-hotfrog/) - I was following a thread at a forum the other day and we were talking about our Google listings. Someone commented that Truelocal, Hotfrog and others will always bring up your listings first. They didn't for me, but that's not the point. At any rate I found a Hotfrog listing for my website much further - [As a Virtual Assistant, how did you get your first client?](https://www.vadirectory.net/as-a-virtual-assistant-how-did-you-get-your-first-client/) - This is a discussion I've seen at a couple of VA forums and I thought I'd bring it here to share with you. My first client came through my church in 1994. He needed some typing to be done. My second was through a lady I knew at the time - she was working with - [Time to start thinking about cards... for Christmas](https://www.vadirectory.net/time-to-start-thinking-about-cards-for-christmas/) - Dare I say it? Christmas is not that far away now! So time to start thinking about your Christmas lists. You know, not just family and friends, but loyal clients, colleagues, people you work with. And if you want to include that specialised touch you can use your own pictures or design a card completely - [Announcing 4th Annual Australian Virtual Assistant Conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/announcing-4th-annual-australian-virtual-assistant-conference/) - It doesn't seem that long since the last one but here we are, organising the next one. At the 3rd annual event we announced that AVAC 2013 will be held in Sydney and it didn't take long for a small committee of Sydney based VAs to be formed to assist Anita and I with the - [Do you have an accountant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-have-an-accountant/) - If you're in business you should. Doesn't matter if your business is part-time or full-time. If you're operating a business of some sort then you should have a professional guiding you and helping you with your business. Yes, it costs to have an Accountant but those costs are a taxable expense. And if you don't - [Are you doing the work you love?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-doing-the-work-you-love/) - I fell into the Virtual Assistant Industry simply by being in the right place at the right time. I'd left a corporate job where I was feeling frustrated by the lack of opportunities for moving up the corporate ladder. I had good skills that I felt were going to waste and I was often looking - [Mix and Mingle with your Peers](https://www.vadirectory.net/mix-and-mingle-with-your-peers/) - There are many now pursuing a career as a Virtual Assistant. However, not all manage to find work directly with clients and often locate sources that later appear to be not what they purport to be. I encourage all who are interested in learning from other Virtual Assistants and gain work from genuine clients, to - [Protect yourself and your business](https://www.vadirectory.net/protect-yourself-and-your-business/) - Once you've got an established presence online and even listings in business publications, you will start getting phone calls asking you to participate in this directory, or sign up for this program or something else. I decided a long time ago that I won't commit to anything over the phone. I need to see it - [A Clayton's Secretary - what does it mean?](https://www.vadirectory.net/a-claytons-secretary-what-does-it-mean/) - The name has been with me for such a long time I forget that others might not know what it means. There is an explanation on the About page of this site but I thought I'd share the information here as recently at a VA forum one of the VAs mentioned she'd often wondered what - [How do you grow your email list?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-you-grow-your-email-list/) - I periodically hear of people who want to buy a list for email purposes. Personally I believe people will do better if they grow their own list. They know where it comes from and that it is genuine. And for Virtual Assistants I feel it's important to grow their own lists. But I appreciate for - [The phone or email?](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-phone-or-email/) - There's been a discussion on one VA forum about whether they have both phone and email listed on their site or just one of those choices? Some are for both, some for only one. Neither is a wrong or right answer, it is purely what works for them. However, it does lead me to think - [Research and Surveys](https://www.vadirectory.net/research-and-surveys/) - There seems to be a rush of surveys and research being done by individuals in our industry (Virtual Assistants) via various forums and groups recently. Perhaps it's happening in other industries too but because I'm not in them, I don't see it happening. Most of the time it appears to be from those who haven't - [Are you lonely in your role as a VA?](https://www.vadirectory.net/are-you-lonely-in-your-role-as-a-va/) - Are you a VA who is finding it lonely working alone at home every day? This is a common occurrence for new VAs as they make the transition from the corporate world to a work-at-home scenario. Loneliness is one of the key factors for VAs not continuing their businesses and returning to the workforce. I - [Do you know your entitlements as a Trademark owner?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-know-your-entitlements-as-a-trademark-owner/) - I'm no expert on the topic of Trademarks but do appreciate the importance of having one, or more. I often see this topic being dicussed amongst VAs worldwide and it's important that they avail themselves of this information and important topic. Especially if they've trademarked in their country and think that no-one else can use - [AVAC 2013 - are you coming?](https://www.vadirectory.net/avac-2013-are-you-coming/) - Now's a good time to get your booking in, before the silly season starts. Our lineup of speakers will be released very soon but I can tell you that we do have a VA Coach coming all the way from the USA! And I'm sure you will want to meet her and hear what she - [What are you planning in the New Year?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-are-you-planning-in-the-new-year/) - It's that time of year again. Thinking about Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year. Plans for the New Year. What are you planning to do? Have you been thinking about running your own Virtual Assistant business but just haven't taken the plunge? Or, perhaps you have been for awhile but feel there are some things - [Christmas events](https://www.vadirectory.net/christmas-events/) - As a VA and Business Owner, the opportunity for the Christmas business 'do' may not arise. In the early years of my business I got around this by holding an afternoon tea, close to Christmas each year, inviting my clients to come along and meet each other. None had to bring anything with them, although - [Where does all your business come from?](https://www.vadirectory.net/where-does-all-your-business-come-from/) - This is a question asked at VA Forum recently and the person posting the question specifically wanted to know if everyone was getting all of their business via LinkedIn (where the forum is). There were a variety of answers that responded with some saying yes and others saying no. I believe the answer is that - [How did you get your first client?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-did-you-get-your-first-client/) - A question I'm often asked in different places. Usually by new VAs who are dead set keen to get their first client and not sure how to go about it. I thought I'd share how my first clients came about and encourage readers to add theirs as well. For me it was 1994. I was - [Stationery Junkie](https://www.vadirectory.net/stationery-junkie/) - Is anyone else like me? A stationery junkie? I know there are a few VAs that feel the same way. I go into raptures every time I walk into Officeworks, or a similar store. Just the clean reams of paper, or an untouched notebook, all the play things in the tech section, new pens and - [Loving the work you do](https://www.vadirectory.net/loving-the-work-you-do/) - I really love the work I do, especially when it helps a client succeed in a goal. Some clients are long-term, some are short-term. Below is a story about a short-term client. One of my latest is a student at Swinburne Uni who has cerebral palsy. For the past 10 years, he's been writing his - [Thoughts for the New Year](https://www.vadirectory.net/thoughts-for-the-new-year/) - Have you thought about how you are going to help your clients in the new year? The following is an email I sent out to a selection of clients I know have toyed with some of these ideas over the past couple of years but still haven't quite gotten down to it. Perhaps I can - [Virtual Assistant Training at a special price](https://www.vadirectory.net/virtual-assistant-training-at-a-special-price/) - Are you planning to start a Virtual Assistant business but not quite sure what to do or how to start? Or, perhaps you've been operating for the past year, but struggling to get clients or wondering what you should be doing on a regular (daily) basis? The VA Trainer course was written with you in mind. - [Do your clients direct your path?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-your-clients-direct-your-path/) - I find that mine have. Over the years I've changed the services I provide, depending on what the client needs appear to be. I began with word-processing and data entry, and very quickly moved into managing databases for clients. I love database work and it was something I was doing in the corporate world so - [Support services for Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/support-services-for-virtual-assistants/) - As new VAs establish their businesses they become aware of different services they need to gain access to. Some of the more obvious ones are Accountants, Solicitors, office suppliers, printer suppliers, etc. But what about merchant facilities and insurances? As your business grows and develops, and therefore your need to be able to provide protection - [What backup plans do you have?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-backup-plans-do-you-have/) - A recent discussion at LinkedIn showed a number of experiences amongst the VAs about their back up plans, or, in some cases, no plans. One revealed that she hadn't started her business yet but had recently lost all her data on her computer because she'd been blase about the need for backing up. She's so - [Christmas specials everywhere](https://www.vadirectory.net/christmas-specials-everywhere/) - I'm not the only one to offer a special (see this post). In my inbox, at Facebook and almost everywhere else I turn I see "Sale" signs popping up for the Christmas/New Year holiday season, and it's no different in the virtual world. If you have taken a course at VAClassroom before, then you know - [Start the year off as you intend to carry on](https://www.vadirectory.net/start-the-year-off-as-you-intend-to-carry-on/) - Happy New Year everyone! I hope you had a great Christmas and New Year period, whether it be peaceful and relaxing, or exciting and adventurous! Whatever suits your style. My husband and I went on a cruise to New Zealand and had opportunity to just relax and sleep in, if we wanted, but some days - [Is it time to engage a Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/is-it-time-to-engage-a-virtual-assistant/) - Do you find yourself with too much work at the end of the day and not enough hours? Do you get frustrated because you always have admin stuff to be done but can't charge that out to any client in particular? Do you find yourself wishing you knew how to use certain software programs or - [8 Weeks and counting](https://www.vadirectory.net/8-weeks-and-counting/) - The Australian VA Conference in Sydney that is. It's being held at Darling Harbour on 22-23 March. I'm flying in from Melbourne on 21st March, as will be others from Melbourne, or other cities and states and we look forward to the fun, the catch ups, the learnings and the time out from our businesses, - [Investing in your business](https://www.vadirectory.net/investing-in-your-business/) - Business is so different to what it was say, 20 years ago. At that time we didn't have the Internet to promote our businesses and to buy a computer often required getting a loan if we didn't have that much cash available at the time. Not to mention purchasing a printer (colour was often out - [Warning re 'Tell a Friend' script](https://www.vadirectory.net/warning-re-tell-a-friend-script/) - If you are getting responses to emails you haven't sent or people querying the email you just sent, you may well have hackers accessing a script on your ecommerce site without your knowledge. I've recently experienced this problem and know another person who has also. The reason for this is the spammers/hackers have accessed the - [Do you have a book inside you?](https://www.vadirectory.net/do-you-have-a-book-inside-you/) - A few years ago I published my very first paperback. It was such an exciting feeling. Months of writing finally coming to fruition. And a nervous time too. Would others want to read the book? Would it sell? I already had a blog on the same topic that was well received and had many, many - [Profile or Page when using Facebook?](https://www.vadirectory.net/profile-or-page-when-using-facebook/) - I know people get confused about what the difference is when creating an account with Facebook. They hear they need to get a Facebook Page for their business but then, in setting up, get confused as to which is which and what the differences are. If you plan to use Facebook for your business, then - [How do I become a Virtual Assistant (VA)?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-i-become-a-virtual-assistant-va/) - This is a question I see asked at VA groups and forums from those who want to enter into the industry. It's quite easy really. You simply make a decision and then start acting like a VA. But to do that, there are some things you need to have set in place: You must have - [WSJ got it all wrong](https://www.vadirectory.net/wsj-got-it-all-wrong/) - It's amazing how wrong people can be about the Virtual Assistant industry. Quote from their video page: Virtual assistants are being called on to unsnarl people's lives. WSJ's Sue Shellenbarger has the pros and cons of a virtual assistant, and Profitably.com CEO Adam Neary shares how a virtual assistant helped him get his life back. - [Website histories](https://www.vadirectory.net/website-histories/) - Sometimes it's necessary (or worthwhile) to go and check the history of a domain to find out how long a business has been online, or in operation. It's hard to tell the age of a site because technology and our age require that information is regularly updated. And if you want to verify some facts, - [How not to post a blog post!](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-not-to-post-a-blog-post/) - My sincere apologies, the post that went out this morning was not complete and was supposed to be in draft mode. But it wasn't, and so you all got something that was entirely unfinished without all the extra material I'd intended for it. Stay tuned, it will come out complete soon and please forgive me - [Starting out as a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/starting-out-as-a-va/) - On one of the LinkedIn groups for VAs a new VA asked about getting started and landing her first client. Some had been giving her advice about her LinkedIn profile. Below is my (edited) response to her. At LinkedIn people prefer to see photos rather than an illustration. So you might want to consider changing - [Growing your connection list at LinkedIn](https://www.vadirectory.net/growing-your-connection-list-at-linkedin/) - LinkedIn is a very popular networking tool for people in business these days, but there are still so many who do not seem to know how to use it, or perhaps haven't thought about it a great deal. There was an article published today about how to protect your account at LinkedIn and prevent your - [Beware the fake LinkedIn connection emails](https://www.vadirectory.net/beware-the-fake-linkedin-connection-emails/) - I've begun receiving a spate of fake LinkedIn Connection requests and 'Learn about your new connection' emails. They look pretty authentic but with an image missing here and there. What clued me in was I never remembered sending an invitation to the names that have been coming. I rarely, if ever, invite someone I don't - [How do you know what a VA is?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-you-know-what-a-va-is/) - As many of you know, I belong to quite a few VA forums. And there is one at Linkedin where a very talented graphic designer/VA participates and he decided to create this awesome info-graphic about what a VA is. I think it's wonderful, wish I had his talent! I always have to pay someone to - [Finding your target market](https://www.vadirectory.net/finding-your-target-market/) - This is a topic that applies to everyone in business. Some businesses have it easy. They have a service or product that people are seeking out every single day of the week. And so it would appear they don't have to do a lot to be found. The reality is they need to look at - [Building takes more than one night](https://www.vadirectory.net/building-takes-more-than-one-night/) - A chance comment at a VA forum made me think about building in general. When you're building a house, there's a lot of planning and preparation put into place. The piece of land is checked by a survey engineer to ensure the land is sound and that the building planned will be structurally sound on - [Where have the secretaries gone?](https://www.vadirectory.net/where-have-the-secretaries-gone/) - They've become Virtual Assistants. There is an article recently published by BloombergBusinessWeek exploring where secretaries have gone. Corporate recruiter, Pat Cook, says that far fewer people have secretaries or assistants now and the article said it's largely due to changes in technology and cost-cutting exercises. However, she also goes on to say that everyone agrees - [Word confusion](https://www.vadirectory.net/word-confusion/) - I own and run Australia's oldest Virtual Assistant Network. My own business "A Clayton's Secretary" was started in 1994, pre-internet, so I could be home for our 5 daughters, and then the internet began just 18months later. Not long after I placed my first webpage online I had women contacting me to ask how they - [Working at home alone](https://www.vadirectory.net/working-at-home-alone/) - With many joining our industry daily, I thought I'd touch on this topic once again. Working at home can be wonderful and it certainly has been for me, and many other Virtual Assistants. However, it's important to understand that you will be home alone, day after day, and you might not have much face-to-face interaction - [Personal time vs Work time](https://www.vadirectory.net/personal-time-vs-work-time/) - I raised this topic on my Facebook page and we've had some great discussion over it. Thought I would bring it here and encourage you to comment on my blog below. Has working at home blurred your boundaries when it comes to working on week days or weekends? I have noticed a number of seminars, - ["Work at Home" Day](https://www.vadirectory.net/work-at-home-day/) - Ken & Lucy from LightFM were chatting about Thursday 9th May being 'Work at Home' Day. They were inviting listeners to text in and vote for one or the other as to who should be working at home on that day. Ken, at one time, was encouraging listeners to vote for him and he mentioned - [Sign it off!](https://www.vadirectory.net/sign-it-off/) - I'm amazed at how many emails I receive where people don't sign off properly. It might be a client, a colleague, a friend but all people who are in business. I use a signature block all the time, and when I hit reply to an email it automatically appends. It also automatically shows when I - [Sign it off!](https://www.vadirectory.net/sign-it-off/) - I'm amazed at how many emails I receive where people don't sign off properly. It might be a client, a colleague, a friend but all people who are in business. I use a signature block all the time, and when I hit reply to an email it automatically appends. It also automatically shows when I - [How do I become a Virtual Assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-do-i-become-a-virtual-assistant-2/) - This is a question I get asked from time to time, via email, and I thought I'd answer it here. One of the very first things I notice when I get this request, is how the email is written. Some write the email well and professionally but others write to me like they might be - [Referrals, Testimonials and Professional Ratings](https://www.vadirectory.net/referrals-testimonials-and-professional-ratings/) - There appears to be a new trend of asking people, via LinkedIn, to give you a testimonial, recommendation or professional rating. Now, that would be OK if the person asking had actually done some work for me, or worked with me on a project, and I had personal experience of their work-style and ability. But, - [Tips for working with a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tips-for-working-with-a-virtual-assistant/) - One of the biggest delay factors in getting work completed for a client, is the delay in getting complete and accurate information. If incomplete information is given then we have to wait for you to get back to us if we leave a phone message or send an email with a query about what needs - [Benefits of outsourcing locally](https://www.vadirectory.net/benefits-of-outsourcing-locally/) - Couldn't have put it better myself. Great article here published with smallbusiness yahoo November last year. It is very true that businesses do struggle to get everything done, and if they spend their funds on employing staff and having to put in place all the things that go with that, office space, equipment, furniture, and - [The Faceless Ones in Social Networking](https://www.vadirectory.net/the-faceless-ones-in-social-networking/) - As many of you would know, I'm an active networker, both online and offline. I love connecting with people, learning things, sharing my own knowledge and experience and helping others move forward with their businesses. There are times when I come across people who don't really seem to get what networking is about. For some - [Where do you get your VA from?](https://www.vadirectory.net/where-do-you-get-your-va-from/) - There's been interesting discussions in Australia and the US via the various VA forums, about businesses outsourcing offshore versus inside their own shores. We feel that it is often important to do business with people who know how business is done in one's own country, and all that entails with respect to legalities, taxes, IP, - [Buying a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/buying-a-virtual-assistant/) - Odd term, I know. But that's what I saw recently in a forum. A guy wanted to buy a VA for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. He asked for the monthly rate. He was posting via a job forum because he wanted to get the VA direct rather than through an agency ## Pages - [Home](https://www.vadirectory.net/) - Virtual Assistants in Australia and beyond. Launched in 1996. Members worldwide. Connecting VAs with clients and clients with VAs. Find a VA. - [Login](https://www.vadirectory.net/login/) - [Member Login](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-login/) - Welcome Welcome to the VA Directory. On this page, you'll find information on how to maximise your membership including how to add your profile to our directory. Add or Update Your Profile Instructions - Update Your Profile on this Site A video of the steps below has been prepared. Click here to view it. If - [Choose Your Membership Level](https://www.vadirectory.net/choose-your-membership-level/) - Choose a plan to join Australia's longest running VA Network today! We have 3 Membership Levels below - all are a minimum 12 month commitment - [Contact Us](https://www.vadirectory.net/contact-us-5/) - Got something you want to tell us? Anita Kilkenny the new owner of VA Directory with Kathie Thomas' retirement earlier this year. We run a group of Virtual Assistants in several countries and we would love to hear from you but perhaps it's about one of the things below ... Having trouble contacting one of - [For VAs - Join VA Directory](https://www.vadirectory.net/join-va-directory/) - Are you running your own business as a Virtual Assistant and would like to join a supportive and open community with promotional opportunities? You have come to the right place. We have 3 levels of Membership Level one - Free Level 2 Lite- $10/month or $100 a year Level 3 Lite Plus VA Trainer - - [VA Directory](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/) - View by Location or Category? Click here - [Great VA Resources](https://www.vadirectory.net/free-resources/) - Just learning about being a Virtual Assistant and not sure what to do or where to go? Here are some suggestions for you to make use of and enjoy! Become a FREE Member to get access to the following Access to our closed Facebook group, Lots of free advice via our Facebook Group Regular tips - [Member Resources](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-resources/) - Bonus Resources for VA Directory Members Click on the images below to download your copy of the eBooks. Templates Business Planning Worksheet. Click to download a fillable PDF. Save it to your desktop and type straight into it or print out. Hourly-Pricing-Formula Spreadsheet to work out what to charge. Client Agreement Template/Sample This is - [VA Directory Membership](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-directory-membership-levels/) - Join Australia’s Longest Running VA Network Today! We have 3 Membership Levels below – all are a minimum 12 month commitment (apart from the Free Plan). For full payments, you can also pay by EFT and we can invoice you. Just choose the free option and then send me an email for payment details. - [ACS News](https://www.vadirectory.net/newsletter/) - Read our newsletters here. ACS News, now VA Directory, has been published since 1995 and online since 2000. Below are the last 3 year's worth of newsletters. Make sure you subscribe here to get your copy hot off the press (so to speak!) Subscribe to our mailing list * indicates required Email Address * First - [VA Trainer - Start Your Own VA Business Today](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-trainer/) - For a limited time, you can purchase VA Trainer for $395AUD, a saving of $350AUD. Click Here to find out more. Not sure you have a full grasp of what’s involved in being a Virtual Assistant? VA Trainer can be completed over a couple of months for just $750AUD. Are you ready to get - [Mentoring with Anita](https://www.vadirectory.net/va-trainer/mentoring-with-anita/) - VA Mentoring and Coaching Already a VA and not needing the above course but want some guidance on a regular basis? You can get a 45 minute session with Anita via Zoom on a monthly (or more often) basis for just $150AUD per session (book here) or 3 sessions for $300AUD (book here). This mentoring - [What type of VA are you?](https://www.vadirectory.net/what-type-of-va-are-you/) - Here are 39 different things you could consider in becoming a VA. Think about your background experience and peruse this list to find one, two or more that suit your needs. Administrative support Association Management: Managing NFP and other membership groups Authors Assistant: Support authors in the process of writing and publishing a book Affiliate - [For Clients - Post a Job](https://www.vadirectory.net/post-a-job/) - Need a Virtual Assistant? No Placement Fees Fill out the form below with your requirements and you can choose which VA you want to work with from the replies you receive. If you don't find the right VA, let us know and we will send more responses to you. Read the information below for an - [About](https://www.vadirectory.net/about/) - Owner: Anita Kilkenny, B Bus (Office Admin), AFAIOP, MVA Thank you for visiting our site and coming to find out what we're about. Sometimes we get phone calls from women wondering if we're real, it doesn't read like a scam, but they just want to make sure. If that's you, that's ok - we understand - [Thank You](https://www.vadirectory.net/clients-2/thank-you/) - Thank you for your request for Virtual Assistance Thank you for sending us your Job Request which is now on its way to our office. Very soon you should hear from several Virtual Assistants who meet your requirements, possibly more. This is so you are given choices. Each VA is an independent contractor and sets - [How to Become a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/how-to-become-a-va/) - The following article for the Australian Virtual Assistants Association sometime ago, however, it's been edited to include VAs globally. Important that you have some understanding of what you need to do to get started and also what experience you might need in order to succeed in establishing a VA business. First and foremost, I need - [Member Benefits](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-benefits/) - Below is a list of things available to you as a member of the VA Directory Team When you join the following becomes immediately available to you as an VA Directory Member 1. VA Directory Member Pack is emailed out to you with a Welcome Booklet explaining how your membership works and covers many topics - [Membership](https://www.vadirectory.net/membership/) - Become a Member of Our Network Today! Please note - home based secretaries are known as Virtual Assistants globally. You may join here application form, and forward to our office with your payment (in Australian $$). Membership Benefits tells you what comes with your membership. Our FAQs are below. VA Directory is a team of - [Choose your membership plan](https://www.vadirectory.net/choose-your-membership-plan/) - If you haven't already filled out the form on the Join Our Network page, please do so before coming back to this page. The information on the form is required by our office. Please note: If the form isn't completed via the join button below your application will not be processed. Thank you. [supsystic-tables id='1'] - [Post your job](https://www.vadirectory.net/clients-2/) - No placement fees charged. Do you suffer from admin overwhelm? Are you drowning in paperwork? Do you need someone to answer calls for you or make your telesales calls? Do you need something transcribed? Do you have a large pile of business cards just waiting to be entered into a database? Do you struggle to - [Terms & Conditions](https://www.vadirectory.net/terms/) - The following terms and conditions govern all use of the VADirectory.net website and all content, services, and products available through the website, including, but not limited to, the client area (collectively referred to as the Site). We have a separate Privacy Policy here. This Site is owned and operated by VA Directory (ABN 69088686063) of PO - [Privacy Policy](https://www.vadirectory.net/privacy-policy/) - VA Directory (ABN 69088686063) of PO Box 5305, Mordialloc, Victoria 3195, Australia (“VA Directory”). This policy sets out how we handle your personal information if you’re a user or visitor to our Sites. This applies across VA Directory and VA Trainer (the “Sites”). When we say 'we', 'us' or 'VA Directory' it's because that's who we - [Thank you for your Membership](https://www.vadirectory.net/thank-you-for-your-membership/) - Thank you for your Membership Application and Payment Anita here! ... I will be in touch with you as soon as I can with more information about your membership. Keep an eye out for an email from me and also check your Junk/Spam in case it's landed in there. Feel free to email me - [Drowning in Paperwork and Admin?](https://www.vadirectory.net/drowning-in-paperwork-and-admin/) - Welcome to Australia's oldest VA Network! We have VAs providing a wide range of services: admin, transcription, social media management, database management, events co-ordination, reception, telemarketing - anything that can be done from an office really. If you feel like you're drowning in any of the above, or more, maybe it's time to engage the - [Member Renewal](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-support/member-renewal/) - Want to come back and be a member of our team? Renew your membership today online. Please quote your name or your ACS member number (if you remember it). VA Directory/The Holistic VA ABN 69088686063 Membership Renewal payment notice When you click on the links below you will be given a choice of the following payment - [VA Directory](https://www.vadirectory.net/vadirectory/) - Find your virtual assistant support on our site - Free! There are three ways you can find a VA to assist you. Fill out our job request form and VAs who match your skill requirements will contact you direct with their quotes and turnaround time. You can scroll through the list of VAs in the - [Jobs](https://www.vadirectory.net/jobs/) - [jobs] - [Job Dashboard](https://www.vadirectory.net/job-dashboard/) - [job_dashboard] - [Coburg North](https://www.vadirectory.net/vadirectory/victoria/coburg-north/) - Bookkeeping and Virtual Assistant ABN: 72 443 661 097 Mob: 0424 624 958 Website: http://www.bookkeepingandvas.com Email: info@aydasbookkeepingservices.com.au Are you struggling with your books and unable to keep up with all the changes by the ATO? Is the administration part of your business taking so much of your time? 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If you have filled out your application form, sent your resume and submitted your payment, then you will be hearing back from this office very soon. We look forward to getting to know you! Please note: If it is a holiday period (Christmas/New Year, Easter) or a long weekend your application may take a - [Sunshine Coast / Golden Beach](https://www.vadirectory.net/vadirectory/queensland/sunshine-coast-golden-beach/) - Officiumns -Reclaiming Freedom in Your Office - The ethos of Officiumns is simply to help; providing your business or not-for-profit with the assistance to reclaim the time, in your business. 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Hi, my name is Julie, I am a Virtual Assistant and owner of - [South Australia](https://www.vadirectory.net/vadirectory/south-australia/) - Name Suburb Phone Details Hawkins Executive Virtual Assistant Brighton 0402 226 413 Details Safe Hands VA - Julia Wheaton Kalbeeba 0412 255 897 Details Heather North Mt Barker 0434 806 859 Details Jannyfer Chua Prospect 0411 806 067 Details Ravenswood Virtual Services Salisbury Park 0407 811 293 - [Maitland](https://www.vadirectory.net/vadirectory/new-south-wales/maitland/) - Virtual Consulting Solutions, Certified Online Business Manager, Certified InfusionSoft Partner, Automation, Administration Services & Social Media Management - [Brisbane](https://www.vadirectory.net/vadirectory/queensland/brisbane-2/) - Kasey Signall | The Admin Guru - Virtual Assistant ABN: 48 841 078 763 Phone: 0448 460 923 Email: admin@theadminguru.net Website: www.theadminguru.net Available: Monday to Friday As a dedicated Virtual Assistant based in Brisbane, I come with 11 years experience in administration and office management. 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You have just purchased an item from any one of these sites: http://www.vadirectory.net http://www.vatrainer.com http://www.acs-webhosting.com If the item is a membership, web hosting or a digital product you will receive further information about your product shortly. If the item is to be mailed it will be forwarded on the very - [VA Forum](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-support/va-forum/) - Feel the need to mix and mingle with your peers? That’s ok, we do too! Which is why we have two forums available for you to join – either or both! One is email based, you receive all discussion by email and you simply reply by email to join in. You'll find this one at - [VA Training](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-support/va-training/) - Not sure you have a full grasp of what’s involved in being a Virtual Assistant? Don’t worry, we’ve got that covered too, in a course, complete with exercises and homework to complete, to get you on track with your VA practice. 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You want to know about it, Kathie - [Testimonials](https://www.vadirectory.net/clients-2/testimonials/) - Thanks, Kathie - I have received a number of enquiries and am reviewing them - thank you - it is a terrific service that you provide and I am hopeful that there will be someone appropriate in amongst the enquiries I received - at a quick review, the response looks very promising. Kate Gilbert Founder - [France](https://www.vadirectory.net/vadirectory/france/) - List here - [VA Support](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-support/) - When Members are logged in they will have access to creating or editing their own profile, updated member benefits, contacting other members and other member facilities. Not yet a member of our Virtual Assistant team? Then why not join today? Just fill out the application and follow the instructions. Then you can be listed on - [Canada](https://www.vadirectory.net/vadirectory/canada/) - Are you a VA in Canada? Would you like to join our VA team? Fill out the application form and get listed today. - [Next](https://www.vadirectory.net/next/) - What happens next? Congratulations! Your application form is on its way to our office. Have you sent your resume to us too? The biggest delay in applications being processed is because applicants forget to send their resume after submitting their application and payment. You can reply to the email you receive acknowledging receipt of your - [ASO Members](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-support/aso/) - ASO = Accredited Secretary Online, MVA = Master Virtual Assistant, there are other accreditations amongst this team also. Please click on their details for more information. Name Suburb Year Details Narelle Huett ASO Skye, Vic 2001 Details Ruth McIntosh ASO Blackburn, Vic 2001 Details Lyn Prowse-Bishop MVA ASO Brisbane, QLD 2001 Details Sue Stott ASO - [Application](https://www.vadirectory.net/application/) - Fill out the form below Pay your membership Subscription fee on the next page (a Tax Receipt will be sent with your member's pack by mail) Email us your resume. You resume should be in .doc, .rtf or .pdf format only please. (You will get a confirmation email relating to the application form below and - [Accreditation](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-support/accreditation/) - All members are entitled to apply for Accreditation as an online operator. Length of membership is not dependent on the application, as long as they are a current financial member. This does not mean, however, that members have to apply for Accreditation - it does mean that only members can apply for this Accreditation. Approved - [Non-Member](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-support/non-member/) - I'd love you to see what you're looking for, but as a non-member you're not eligible. Why not consider joining our team at http://vadirectory.net/team? - [Membership Cancelled](https://www.vadirectory.net/member-support/membership-cancelled/) - If you're seeing this page it's because your membership hasn't been renewed. That can be quickly rectified by going to http://www.vadirectory.net/memrenewal.htm and we'll have you back in the system in no time flat! ## VA Directory - Listings - [](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/21334/) - With a multifaceted background across aircrew, fine arts, business administration, and education, I bring a depth of experience and a versatile skill set to every professional setting. My career spans roles as aircrew, art consultant within a private gallery, business administrator, and manager of a private music school—each of which has strengthened my capabilities in - [Let's Talk Admin](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/lets-talk-admin/) - General Administration Assisting with all your general administrative needs – providing you with the support and time you need to focus on your business. - Data inputting - Email support - Bulk mailouts - Client communication - Organising/confirming appointments - Out-going client calls - Diary management - Complaint resolution - Website review - Banking - - [The Virtual Office Pearl](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/the-virtual-office-pearl/) - Hi! I’m Linda – Virtual Assistant and lover of all things admin. I combine my extensive background across multiple industries (over 40 years of combined executive PA, senior administration and office management experience) with my passion for the written word and love of bringing order to chaos. The Virtual Office Pearl was founded to provide - [Sandra Orr Business Solutions](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/sunflower-factory-business-support-specialist/) - At Sandra Orr Business Solutions, we are here to help your business thrive by taking care of the tasks that can slow you down. Whether you need Social Media Marketing, eNewsletters, Admin Support, Canva Graphic Design, or more, we provide tailored solutions to keep your business running smoothly. With years of experience supporting business owners and - [Beyond the Office Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/beyond-the-office-virtual-assistant/) - I am a former Personal Assistant/Administrative Assistant with 35+ years' experience in many areas including legal, automotive repair, aged care and more. I provide remote services to owners of small business, micro business as well as individuals Australia wide. Services include: Audio transcription Typing - correspondence, agendas, reports, minutes, memorandums, tables, forms Document management - - [Fern, Your PA and More - chaos control for small business](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/your-pa-and-more-chaos-control-for-small-business/) - My name is Fern Rice and I have over 30 years experience in customer service and support, with relationship building, project management, database management and new system implementation being particular strengths. With direct experience in a range of startup businesses, SMEs, Not-for-profits as well as larger corporations my industry experience includes amongst others, database design - [Bloom Bright Virtual Solutions](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/bloom-bright-virtual-solutions/) - Bloom Bright offers virtual assistant services designed to support neurodivergent individuals, small business owners and allied health professionals. As well as the NDIS community. My approach is neuro-affirming, inclusive, and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Ensuring they can focus on productivity and being the face of their company, while I handle - [Executive House Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/executive-house-virtual-assistants/) - 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐀𝐝𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 Are you a growing business owner struggling to keep up with daily tasks? Consider partnering with a 𝓥𝓲𝓻𝓽𝓾𝓪𝓵 𝓐𝓼𝓼𝓲𝓼𝓽𝓪𝓷𝓽. Whether you've recently experienced growth and can't find enough hours in the day to manage inquiries and schedule important meetings, or your business isn't ready to hire part-time staff - [Invisible Assistance](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/invisible-assistance/) - As a highly experienced administration specialist with over 30 years of experience, I offer virtual business administration services to small business owners, professionals, and sole traders. My goal is to help you focus on the core aspects of your business and save you time for the important things - whether that’s growing your business, providing - [Jen Kelly VA Solutions](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/jen-kelly-va-solutions/) - Greetings! Ready to take your business to the next level? Welcome to Jen Kelly VA Solutions! As your virtual assistant, I am dedicated to helping you save time and work smarter. With years of administrative experience, I offer a wide range of services to support your business, from scheduling and organising to transcript services and debt collection. - [VP Executive Support](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/vp-executive-support/) - After dedicating more than 25 years to corporate administration roles across diverse industries such as legal, insurance, allied health, sports and recreation, I officially launched VP Executive Support in early 2023. Located in Brisbane, Queensland, my focus is on providing exceptional remote administration support. Currently my specialisation lies in assisting solo allied health clinicians in - [Ad Hoc Transcription Services](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/ad-hoc-transcription-services/) - Ad Hoc Transcription Services, (formerly AJ Secretarial Support) was established in 2002 by Allison Farquharson and is a reliable and affordable Australia-wide transcription provider based on Queensland's Sunshine Coast. Ad Hoc Transcription Services are dedicated to converting your digital audio files and tapes into professional documents with a high level of accuracy. All transcripts are - [Everyday Admin](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/everyday-admin/) - Everyday Admin was established in 2017, with a focus on helping Allied Health and Small businesses with Everyday tasks, that are essential for every business. With a background in NDIS and Occupational Therapy, I understand the pressures on clinician time and the importance of good administration systems. I support sole practitioners and small teams to - [Kively Office Assistants Online](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/kively-office-assistants-online/) - Kively Office Assistants Online specialises in providing Virtual Administration and Office Support Services to Allied Health Practice, Lawyers, Solicitors, small business and individuals. Our Services can include the following and much more: Admin Support – • General Admin • Data Entry • Legal Documents • Resumes - [Karen Barclay Virtual PA](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/provide-peace-of-mind-and-freedom-to-australian-businesses/) - Hello, I’m Karen Barclay, and I’m a Virtual Assistant. Vision: Provide peace of mind and freedom to Australian businesses. Mission: Australian based virtual assistant providing secure administrative and operational support to professional businesses. Services: Administrative Support Email management, calendar management, meeting coordination, collate and distribute meeting documents, task management and to-do lists, word processing, office - [Trish Martino, Bookkeeper & Freelance Writer](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/trish-martino-bookkeeper-freelance-writer/) - I've been a freelancer since 2006. Initially starting off as a VA, then progressing to Bookkeeping and BAS Agent. I'm now offering VA services again as I really enjoy the different roles it brings. I've also added in Content Writing and Copywriting to my skill set. I'm based in Melbourne and would love to work - [Virtually Everything Admin](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/virtually-everything-admin/) - Hi, I have more than 30 years’ experience in Professional Administration, Allied Health Practice Management, IT, Education, Technology and Corporate Operations Management. Prior to establishing and growing my own business, I worked for IBM and Price Waterhouse Coopers in both Melbourne and London. In the UK I worked for the Ladbrokes Group, working in administration - [Gail Budden Admin Solutions](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/gail-budden-admin-solutions/) - [VA Directory](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/va-directory/) - VA Directory is an Australian based VA Network with VAs throughout Australia and other countries. - [NS Buddy Virtual estimation, drafting and project coordination](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/ns-buddy-virtual-estimation-drafting-and-project-coordination/) - If you're looking for a reliable, accurate, and cost-effective way to get estimates for your construction project, you've come to the right place. We specialize in virtual estimation drafting, utilizing the latest technology and software to provide you with the most precise and efficient service available. Whether you need an estimate for a new build - [Ask Charly Leetham](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/ask-charly-leetham/) - Online Business Management Our goal is to assist small to medium business owners use the power of the Internet as an avenue to market their organisations in an appropriate and cost-effective manner. We assist small businesses to define and refine their processes, plan and build their web presence using current and emerging technologies. We provide - [Web Vision Solutions](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/19144/) - Web Vision Solutions was created to support modern businesses in the online world. We love to create, inspire and empower! Whether it’s crafting a website from the ground up, building an industry leading e-Commerce site or premium online learning experience, or streamlining your online business, we are committed to having a long-lasting and success-driven relationship - [VSS Australia - Gai Hook, Director](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/director/) - VSS Australia "The Perfect Alternative to a Call Centre" Gai Hook - Director Our large team of onsite and virtual sales representatives was created to meet the need of VSS clients, especially those needing an experienced Sales Manager at the helm who could work efficiently with Marketing Managers and their sales teams. VSS representatives are - [Career Pursuit - Your Virtual HR Partner](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/career-pursuit-your-virtual-hr-partner/) - Welcome to Career Pursuit - Your Virtual HR Assistant. We offer Recruitment and Human Resources support, with a side of Administration. What does this mean? - I can partner with you and empower you to conduct a recruitment campaign, or jump in and out at different stages depending on the level of involvement you're seeking - [The Holistic Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/the-holistic-virtual-assistnat/) - Aussie Virtual Assistant for Heart-Centred Soulpreneurs ? Social Media ? Internet Marketing ? Admin ? Yoga ? Meditation ? Surfing ?Mum ? Virgo ? Bachelor of Business (Office Administration) Accredited Office Professional (AOP) Master Virtual Assistant (MVA) Book in a free 30 Minute Chat or Email me hello@theholisticva.com.au With over 25 years secretarial and - [Just Ask Tash is here to streamline your business!](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/19608/) - I am a highly skilled and experienced administration and client service professional, I bring over 16 years of experience in administration and project support roles in the mining, oil and gas, and construction industries. These responsibilities have seen me develop the ability to offer high-level Executive and Personal Assistance to my clients, small business support, - [Hayley Atkins](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/hayley-atkins/) - Are you dreaming of leaving your 9-5 office job for freedom and flexibility, but not sure where to start? Maybe you've taken the dive but now the back end of your business isn't supporting your visions to grow and scale? As a Digital Business Manager (a virtual assistant with a twist), I can help guide - [A M Doran](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/19149/) - [Admin & Bookkeeping with Care](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/maggie-stanisic/) - Assisting businesses with exceptional Bookkeeping and Administration Services. Working with passionate business owners to help you overcome the overwhelm of the paperwork involved in running your own business. Some services offered: Accounts Payable & Receivable Payroll & Superannuation End of month Journals and Financial Reporting Bank & Credit Card Reconciliations Secretarial Services General Daily Administration - [Xpress Online Secretarial Services](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/xpress-online-secretarial-services/) - Business established since 1999, offering typing assistance to small business owners, entrepreneurs, general public, academic institutions, professional consultants, trainers/teachers, students, research groups. Trained in Pitmans Secretarial Diploma, and continually updating training skills in computer software applications and other Secretarial courses. Most recently obtained certificate in H&R Block Income Tax course. Types of services offered: Typing - [Business Support Specialist and Social Media Manager](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/business-support-specialist-and-social-media-manager/) - At Out-Smart we will work closely with you on: Social media strategy and implementation. Full range of EA and business support services; including calendar management, travel management, report reviewing and editing, and inbox management. Event management; including breakfast seminars, trade shows. We provide a bespoke alternative, particularly for business owners who never have enough hours - [Aspire Admin and Business Services](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/aspire-admin-and-business-services/) - Aspire Admin Services is the answer to your business administration puzzle. With almost 10 years’ experience in a corporate Compliance, Quality and Practice setting, I can take of your business documentation needs. If your business is growing, and you need to get your policies, procedures, process maps, templates, and system resources sorted but you simply - [Lynda Frost - Certified Online Business Manager](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/lynda-frost-certified-online-business-manager/) - Certified Online Business Manager® for Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners I free up YOU (the business owner) so you can focus your time and energy on things only YOU can do in your business Are you ready to hire an Online Business Manager? You simply can’t grow your business any more being the only one - [Lisa Thompson - Freelance Business Support (OutShuffle)](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/freelance-business-support/) - My name is Lisa Thompson and I am a Freelance Business Support. Do you ever wish there were more hours in the day? My mission is to help business owners gain more time so they can focus on the areas they are passionate about. Delegate the tasks that take your time and energy from what - [Wright VA Services Pty Ltd](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/wright-va-services-pty-ltd/) - I’m here to help you run a profitable and thriving business by providing support and doing the tasks you either don’t have time to do or don’t want to do, without the cost or hassle of having to hire a full-time employee. By utilising a VA you can focus your time on growing your business. - [My Beechworth Secretary](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/my-beechworth-secretary/) - I provide a wide range of administrative and event support to businesses, organisations and individuals. I take on the tasks that you don’t have time for, don’t want to do, or struggle with, freeing you up to do the things you enjoy – at work and home. Short tasks, projects or ongoing support. Services include: - [Sideline Support](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/sideline-support/) - As your virtual assistant, Sideline Support works behind the scenes to handle the day-to-day operations of your business, so that you can be front and centre in your business – building your profile, growing your clientele and kicking goals that set you ahead of the pack. ​Sideline Support offers a broad range of administrative and - [Kyan Business Services](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/kyan-business-services/) - Kyan Business Services provides a virtual assistant service allowing businesses to spend time doing the things they should - working 'on' their business. We offer a professional virtual assistant support service in all areas of administration, from typing a simple document or letter to undertaking a long term project. - [Secretarial Online](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/secretarial-online/) - Do you need more time in your business? Secretarial Online provides secretarial and administration support services giving you time back to focus on the more important parts of your business. Secretarial Online is proud of our prompt, efficient service, attention to detail, and complete discretion. I also provide ongoing and one-off secretarial support and administration - [n.b. Office Assist](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/n-b-office-assist/) - Hi, I’m Nicola Brunton or n.b. office assist! For over 20 years I have been working with and assisting businesses, not-for-profits and sole traders with their everyday, practical needs in all areas of office, administration and business management. My ethos is pretty simple – it’s ‘To help assist your business‘. Having worked closely with every - [Executive Stress Office Support](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/executive-stress-office-support/) - eSOS offers a range of services but specialises in digital transcription, document production, and executive PA services. We are detail-oriented allowing you to focus on your creativity and your business. Since February 2000, we have been providing high quality, confidential remote secretarial and Virtual Assistant support to clients across Australia, the UK, the USA and - [Executive Stress Office Support](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/executive-stress-office-support/) - eSOS offers a range of services but specialises in digital transcription, document production, and executive PA services. We are detail-oriented allowing you to focus on your creativity and your business. Since February 2000, we have been providing high quality, confidential remote secretarial and Virtual Assistant support to clients across Australia, the UK, the USA and - [Creative Desk - Your Virtual Marketing Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/creative-desk-your-virtual-marketing-assistant/) - Hi my name is Michelle Tolhurst, your virtual marketing assistant and I am the owner, director of Creative Desk Pty Ltd. Creative Desk was established in December 2015, to provide support for small businesses as a virtual marketing assistant. Whether you require a one-off job or regular assistance, I can help with email campaigns, marketing automation, website creation or maintenance - [Art of Admin](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/art-of-admin/) - Virtual assistant services to small business owners who are looking for that personal touch. We can assist you with all things business, from marketing, creative design services, all round office support, social media, accounts assistance and more. Just ask. With a fresh approach, style, flair, enthusiasm and captivating photos, together, we can achieve the success - [TempESST](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/listing/tempesst/) - Quality transcriptions with a focus on workplace investigations. Affordable Safety, Quality, Environmental and Business Management Systems. I can provide many administration requirements. I am fast and efficient with a typing speed of around 100 words per minute and very knowledgeable on correct spelling and grammar. I spend a great deal of my time amending documents. ## Testimonials - [Ian's Story](https://www.vadirectory.net/testimonials/ians-story/) - I reached out at short notice for assistance with a project deadline. Within minutes I had a selection of well vetted candidates to choose from, and 30 minutes later I had engaged a researcher. I highly recommend VA Directory to anyone needing a VA, as they are my "go to" from now, completely eliminating the - [Ian's Story](https://www.vadirectory.net/testimonials/ians-story/) - I reached out at short notice for assistance with a project deadline. Within minutes I had a selection of well vetted candidates to choose from, and 30 minutes later I had engaged a researcher. I highly recommend VA Directory to anyone needing a VA, as they are my "go to" from now, completely eliminating the - [Suzi's story](https://www.vadirectory.net/testimonials/suzis-story/) - Kathie came to my rescue during a website emergency. She patiently coached me through it till the job was done. Although she was half a world away, she was able to teach me what I needed. What a coach! VA's if you are looking for someone to help you get started in the VA Industry, - [Sammy's story](https://www.vadirectory.net/testimonials/sammys-story/) - I joined VA Directory in 2014. Amongst the client requests I've received, I gained a client some years ago who is now my biggest client. I also project manage a training program for them, held in Hong Kong. This has led to more long-lasting connections and work local and overseas. My membership has been very - [Ken's story](https://www.vadirectory.net/testimonials/kens-story/) - Kathie manages our social media activities, particularly Facebook. We post regularly covering issues of significance to self employed people and run targeted campaigns. In running campaigns, discussion and social media commentary on our platforms is monitored for quality and feedback. Kathie operates in a highly professional manner with significant attention to detail in supporting our - [Paddy's story](https://www.vadirectory.net/testimonials/paddys-story/) - Kathie has provided website support for my business for many years. Her attitude to service is extraordinary and her advice and support is always helpful and professional. I am a training consultant, speaker and coach and Kathie has worked closely with me more like a partner than service provider. - [Emily's story](https://www.vadirectory.net/testimonials/emilys-story/) - Kathie's wisdom and experience are a constant source of knowledge. She appears to have endless time for others and is always willing to help those both new and old to the Virtual Assistant industry. ## Categories - [Uncategorised](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/uncategorised/) - [Business Networking](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/business-networking/) - [Operating a VA Business](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/operating-a-va-business/) - [VA Industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/va-industry/) - [Client Ed & Case Studies](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/client-case-studies/) - [VA Education](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/va-education/) - [Uncategorized](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/uncategorized/) - [Networking Tools](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/networking-tools/) - [Author's musings](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/authors-musings/) - [Blogging](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/blogging/) - [Email Etiquette](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/email-etiquette/) - [Technology](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/technology/) - 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[VA Trainer](https://www.vadirectory.net/category/va-trainer/) ## Tags - [employee](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/employee/) - [offshore](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/offshore/) - [self-employed](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/self-employed/) - [tax laws](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tax-laws/) - [tax obligations](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tax-obligations/) - [VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va/) - [virtual assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant/) - [4-hour work week](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/4-hour-work-week/) - [IVAD](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/ivad/) - [OIVAC](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/oivac/) - [Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistants/) - [new skills](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-skills/) - [R&D](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/rd/) - [research and development](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/research-and-development/) - [virtual assistant business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-business/) - [author](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/author/) - [Blogging](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/blogging/) - [blogs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/blogs/) - [published](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/published/) - [writing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/writing/) - [Forum on Virtual Assistance](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/forum-on-virtual-assistance/) - [FoVA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fova/) - [VA Conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-conference/) - [affiliates](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/affiliates/) - [Contact Point](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/contact-point/) - [eNudge](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/enudge/) - [new projects](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-projects/) - [newsletter](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/newsletter/) - [shoppingcart](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/shoppingcart/) - [bad language.](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bad-language/) - [client contact](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/client-contact/) - [Email Etiquette](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/email-etiquette/) - [cost of living](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/cost-of-living/) - [costs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/costs/) - [timing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/timing/) - [business networks](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-networks/) - [Facebook](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/facebook-networking-tools/) - [mailing lists](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mailing-lists/) - [social networking](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/social-networking/) - [business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business/) - [economic times](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/economic-times/) - [networking](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/networking/) - [planning](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/planning/) - [volunteer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/volunteer/) - [databases](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/databases/) - [websites](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/websites/) - [word-processing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/word-processing/) - [000th member](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/000th-member/) - [1](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/1/) - [prizewinner](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/prizewinner/) - [Christmas special](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/christmas-special/) - [training program](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/training-program/) - [Virtual Assistant training](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-training/) - [business network](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-network/) - [economic problems](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/economic-problems/) - [homebody](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/homebody/) - [networking events](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/networking-events/) - [working at home](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/working-at-home/) - [client support](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/client-support/) - [job request](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/job-request/) - [Intel Centrino2](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/intel-centrino2/) - [notebook computer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/notebook-computer/) - [promotion](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/promotion/) - [1000th member](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/1000th-member/) - [employee mindset](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/employee-mindset/) - [number one mistake](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/number-one-mistake/) - [business owner](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-owner/) - [Mistakes VAs make](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mistakes-vas-make/) - [low rates](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/low-rates/) - [offshore VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/offshore-vas/) - [wrong rates](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wrong-rates/) - [Business Networking](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-networking/) - [local clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/local-clients/) - [virtual clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-clients/) - [voluntary work](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/voluntary-work/) - [bite off more than you can chew](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bite-off-more-than-you-can-chew/) - [no experience](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/no-experience/) - [new technologies](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-technologies/) - [social networks](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/social-networks/) - [communication](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/communication/) - [time frame](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/time-frame/) - [workload](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/workload/) - [domain names](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/domain-names/) - [free email addresses](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/free-email-addresses/) - [real business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/real-business/) - [Twitter](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/twitter/) - [new VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-va/) - [price fixing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/price-fixing/) - [prospective client](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/prospective-client/) - [standard rate](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/standard-rate/) - [How much to charge](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/how-much-to-charge/) - [setting rates](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/setting-rates/) - [VA benefits](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-benefits/) - [bounced mail](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bounced-mail/) - [returned mail](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/returned-mail/) - [spammers](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/spammers/) - [webstats](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/webstats/) - [Australia](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/australia/) - [Beechworth](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/beechworth/) - [fires in Victoria](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fires-in-victoria/) - [tourism](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tourism/) - [Victorian bushfires](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/victorian-bushfires/) - [audio transcription](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/audio-transcription/) - [digital transcription](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/digital-transcription/) - [typing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/typing/) - [flyers](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/flyers/) - [online presence](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/online-presence/) - [conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/conference/) - [workshop](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/workshop/) - [Australian government](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/australian-government/) - [government cash bonus](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/government-cash-bonus/) - [15th anniversary](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/15th-anniversary/) - [virtual assistant industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-industry/) - [healtthcare for business owners](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/healtthcare-for-business-owners/) - [sick in business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/sick-in-business/) - [international clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/international-clients/) - [becoming a virtual assist](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/becoming-a-virtual-assist/) - [copywriter](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/copywriter/) - [commitment](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/commitment/) - [perseverance](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/perseverance/) - [setting goals](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/setting-goals/) - ["Networking Magic"](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/networking-magic/) - ["Seven Second Marketing"](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/seven-second-marketing/) - [marketing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/marketing/) - [Masters of Networking"](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/masters-of-networking/) - [LinkedIn](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/linkedin/) - [relationship building](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/relationship-building/) - [global economy](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/global-economy/) - [job security](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/job-security/) - [VA Industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-industry/) - [misunderstandings](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/misunderstandings/) - [the English language](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/the-english-language/) - [quoting for jobs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/quoting-for-jobs/) - [rates](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/rates/) - [conferences](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/conferences/) - [events](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/events/) - [IVAA Summit](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/ivaa-summit/) - [seminars](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/seminars/) - [webinars](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/webinars/) - [autoresponders](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/autoresponders/) - [email updates](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/email-updates/) - [growing a business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/growing-a-business/) - [growth](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/growth/) - [starvation](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/starvation/) - [clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/clients/) - [delegating](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/delegating/) - [outsourcing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/outsourcing/) - [services](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/services/) - [skillset](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/skillset/) - [fresh air](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fresh-air/) - [time away from office](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/time-away-from-office/) - [vitamin D](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/vitamin-d/) - [convention](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/convention/) - [holidays](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/holidays/) - [The Twitionary](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/the-twitionary/) - [Twitter Dictionary](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/twitter-dictionary/) - [bookkeeping](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bookkeeping/) - [invoice](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/invoice/) - [inactive email address](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/inactive-email-address/) - [bounced email](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bounced-email/) - [mail delivery](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mail-delivery/) - [mailbox quota](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mailbox-quota/) - [VATrainer course](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/vatrainer-course/) - [time dependent](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/time-dependent/) - [cheap labour](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/cheap-labour/) - [data entry](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/data-entry/) - [Excel](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/excel/) - [Book Review](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/book-review/) - [distraction](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/distraction/) - [focus](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/focus/) - [time management](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/time-management/) - [Authors Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/authors-assistant/) - [Virtual Authors Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-authors-assistant/) - [working with authors](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/working-with-authors/) - [read minds](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/read-minds/) - [My Career](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/my-career/) - [VA article](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-article/) - [working parent](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/working-parent/) - [VA rates](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-rates/) - [what is a virtual assistant?](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/what-is-a-virtual-assistant/) - [SN](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/sn/) - [social media](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/social-media/) - [Yahoogroups](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/yahoogroups/) - [how to use a virtual assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/how-to-use-a-virtual-assistant/) - [business owners](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-owners/) - [employees](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/employees/) - [staff](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/staff/) - [guidance](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/guidance/) - [mentorship](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mentorship/) - [training](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/training/) - [business name](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-name/) - [personal name](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/personal-name/) - [VA event](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-event/) - [Virtual Assistant Conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-conference/) - [exploitation](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/exploitation/) - [test ability](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/test-ability/) - [unpaid work](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/unpaid-work/) - [delegation](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/delegation/) - [entrepreneur](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/entrepreneur/) - [virtual assistance](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistance/) - [Australian Virtual Assistant Conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/australian-virtual-assistant-conference/) - [AVAC](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/avac/) - [VA Coaching Club](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-coaching-club/) - [virtual assistant coaching](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-coaching/) - [client feedback](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/client-feedback/) - [happy customer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/happy-customer/) - [bills](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bills/) - [telstra](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/telstra/) - [VA chat forum](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-chat-forum/) - [self-education](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/self-education/) - [VAProject 52](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/vaproject-52/) - [Australian VA Conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/australian-va-conference/) - [client work](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/client-work/) - [conference attendance](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/conference-attendance/) - [virtual assistant newsletters](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-newsletters/) - [award rates](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/award-rates/) - [pay](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/pay/) - [pay rise](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/pay-rise/) - [routine](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/routine/) - [business forum of experts](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-forum-of-experts/) - [HBBA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/hbba/) - [MCEI](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mcei/) - [what is a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/what-is-a-va/) - [business service](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-service/) - [send out cards](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/send-out-cards/) - [antivirus](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/antivirus/) - [mcafee](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mcafee/) - [software problem](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/software-problem/) - [blatant promotions](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/blatant-promotions/) - [forum etiquette](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/forum-etiquette/) - [business cards](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-cards/) - [overwhelm](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/overwhelm/) - [event promotions](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/event-promotions/) - [forums](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/forums/) - [getting VA work.](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/getting-va-work/) - [new VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-vas/) - [new Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-virtual-assistants/) - [CRMs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/crms/) - [association management](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/association-management/) - [committees](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/committees/) - [minutes of meetings](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/minutes-of-meetings/) - [NFP](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/nfp/) - [not for profit](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/not-for-profit/) - [secretariat](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/secretariat/) - [A Current Affair](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/a-current-affair/) - [Channel 9](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/channel-9/) - [Mums working from home](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mums-working-from-home/) - [getting a VA job](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/getting-a-va-job/) - [securing clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/securing-clients/) - [virtual assistant work](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-work/) - [listserv](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/listserv/) - [mail list](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mail-list/) - [network](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/network/) - [ning](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/ning/) - [server](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/server/) - [home based business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/home-based-business/) - [work at home](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/work-at-home/) - [VA team](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-team/) - [Virtual Assistant Network](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-network/) - [services provided](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/services-provided/) - [type of VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/type-of-va/) - [daycare](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/daycare/) - [background](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/background/) - [chat forum](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/chat-forum/) - [experience](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/experience/) - [moderator](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/moderator/) - [network owner](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/network-owner/) - [advertising](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/advertising/) - [VA business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-business/) - [ebook](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/ebook/) - [how to become a virtual assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/how-to-become-a-virtual-assistant/) - [responding to emails](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/responding-to-emails/) - [acronym](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/acronym/) - [buzzword](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/buzzword/) - [spelling](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/spelling/) - [website](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/website/) - [assignments](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/assignments/) - [ethics](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/ethics/) - [false](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/false/) - [studies](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/studies/) - [trend](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/trend/) - [council](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/council/) - [sustainable program](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/sustainable-program/) - [contribute](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/contribute/) - [do nothing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/do-nothing/) - [fail](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fail/) - [join in](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/join-in/) - [client](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/client/) - [department](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/department/) - [specialize](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/specialize/) - [work](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/work/) - [craigslist](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/craigslist/) - [elance](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/elance/) - [employer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/employer/) - [guru](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/guru/) - [odesk](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/odesk/) - [just](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/just/) - [professional](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/professional/) - [secretary](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/secretary/) - [telemarking](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/telemarking/) - [business expense](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-expense/) - [free advertising](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/free-advertising/) - [copyright](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/copyright/) - [trademark infringement](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/trademark-infringement/) - [VA practice](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-practice/) - [extra time](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/extra-time/) - [overtime](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/overtime/) - [sub-contracting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/sub-contracting/) - [now available](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/now-available/) - [wordpress course](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wordpress-course/) - [reliable VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/reliable-vas/) - [reputable virtual assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/reputable-virtual-assistants/) - [course](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/course/) - [education](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/education/) - [introduction](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/introduction/) - [learning](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/learning/) - [Wordpress](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wordpress/) - [1SC](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/1sc/) - [1shoppingcart.com](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/1shoppingcart-com/) - [Virtual Assistant services](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-services/) - [asking for work](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/asking-for-work/) - [admin support](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/admin-support/) - [affordability](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/affordability/) - [efficient](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/efficient/) - [fulltime](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fulltime/) - [parttime](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/parttime/) - [secretarial](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/secretarial/) - [multiple accounts](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/multiple-accounts/) - [Seesmic](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/seesmic/) - [tweet](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tweet/) - [Charly Leetham](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/charly-leetham/) - [Janet Beckers](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/janet-beckers/) - [Kathie Thomas](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/kathie-thomas/) - [Wonderful Web Women](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wonderful-web-women/) - [special offer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/special-offer/) - [VA jobs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-jobs/) - [work as a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/work-as-a-virtual-assistant/) - [business operatoins](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-operatoins/) - [start-up costs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/start-up-costs/) - [web presence](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/web-presence/) - [account](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/account/) - [connections](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/connections/) - [FB](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fb/) - [groups](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/groups/) - [pages](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/pages/) - [profile](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/profile/) - [email](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/email/) - [Outlook](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/outlook/) - [Social Connector](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/social-connector/) - [Customer Relationship Program](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/customer-relationship-program/) - [referral marketing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/referral-marketing/) - [networks](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/networks/) - [virtual assistant course](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-course/) - [work from home](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/work-from-home/) - [Wordpress training](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wordpress-training/) - [language](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/language/) - [terminology](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/terminology/) - [bookings](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bookings/) - [early bird](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/early-bird/) - [registrations](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/registrations/) - [job online](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/job-online/) - [spam](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/spam/) - [technical writer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/technical-writer/) - [Get a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/get-a-va/) - [too busy](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/too-busy/) - [contractor](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/contractor/) - [photographer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/photographer/) - [accuracy](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/accuracy/) - [English](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/english/) - [speech](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/speech/) - [speed](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/speed/) - [transcription](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/transcription/) - [AustralianVAConference](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/australianvaconference/) - [event](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/event/) - [anniversary](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/anniversary/) - [celebration](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/celebration/) - [business card](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-card/) - [NFPs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/nfps/) - [signature block](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/signature-block/) - [ask](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/ask/) - [explain](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/explain/) - [quantify](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/quantify/) - [specific](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/specific/) - [database](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/database/) - [format](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/format/) - [long-term](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/long-term/) - [first client](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/first-client/) - [memory](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/memory/) - [operating a business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/operating-a-business/) - [action list](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/action-list/) - [Become a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/become-a-virtual-assistant/) - [new](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new/) - [starting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/starting/) - [new business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-business/) - [mentee](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mentee/) - [mentor](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mentor/) - [walk their talk](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/walk-their-talk/) - [Affiliate program](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/affiliate-program/) - [business operation](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-operation/) - [multiple hats](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/multiple-hats/) - [sales targets](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/sales-targets/) - [set goals](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/set-goals/) - [setting up systems](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/setting-up-systems/) - [on show 24/7](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/on-show-247/) - [written communication](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/written-communication/) - [Google+](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/google/) - [social media tools](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/social-media-tools/) - [affiliate](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/affiliate/) - [fraud dept](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fraud-dept/) - [fraudulent](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fraudulent/) - [orders](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/orders/) - [stolen credit cards](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/stolen-credit-cards/) - [reputation](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/reputation/) - [contact details](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/contact-details/) - [jobs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/jobs/) - [peers](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/peers/) - [charge](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/charge/) - [free](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/free/) - [high](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/high/) - [low](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/low/) - [price](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/price/) - [etiquette](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/etiquette/) - [posting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/posting/) - [BNI](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bni/) - [Business Network International](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-network-international/) - [referrals](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/referrals/) - [bad business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bad-business-2/) - [identification](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/identification/) - [snob](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/snob/) - [webinar](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/webinar/) - [join](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/join/) - [membership](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/membership/) - [VA networks](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-networks/) - [80/20 rule](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/8020-rule/) - [contracting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/contracting/) - [income](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/income/) - [fake](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fake/) - [fraud](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fraud/) - [genuine](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/genuine/) - [letter](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/letter/) - [Who's Who](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/whos-who/) - [customer contact](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/customer-contact/) - [who do you know?](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/who-do-you-know/) - [birthday](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/birthday/) - [discount](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/discount/) - [gift](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/gift/) - [special](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/special/) - [VATrainer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/vatrainer/) - [finding clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/finding-clients/) - [expenses](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/expenses/) - [operating](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/operating/) - [running](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/running/) - [earning capacity](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/earning-capacity/) - [steady income](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/steady-income/) - [club](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/club/) - [group](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/group/) - [hobby](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/hobby/) - [interest](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/interest/) - [advice](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/advice/) - [admin](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/admin/) - [client assist](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/client-assist/) - [wordprocessing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wordprocessing/) - [blog](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/blog/) - [longevity](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/longevity/) - [posts](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/posts/) - [VA forums](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-forums/) - [web design](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/web-design/) - [webhosting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/webhosting/) - [agency](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/agency/) - [employment](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/employment/) - [18th anniversary](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/18th-anniversary/) - [business celebrations](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-celebrations/) - [office-based](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/office-based/) - [VA Network](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-network/) - [bank account](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bank-account/) - [illegal](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/illegal/) - [keep funds](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/keep-funds/) - [money laundering](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/money-laundering/) - [building relationships](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/building-relationships/) - [importance](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/importance/) - [LinkedIn invitations](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/linkedin-invitations/) - [2012](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/2012/) - [appointments](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/appointments/) - [no power](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/no-power/) - [time off](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/time-off/) - [technology](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/technology-2/) - [tools](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tools/) - [faceless people](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/faceless-people/) - [images](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/images/) - [photos](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/photos/) - [frustration](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/frustration/) - [job](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/job/) - [owner](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/owner/) - [elevator speech](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/elevator-speech/) - [Engaging a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/engaging-a-virtual-assistant/) - [questions to ask](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/questions-to-ask/) - [FAQs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/faqs/) - [VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/vas/) - [good practice](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/good-practice/) - [right client](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/right-client/) - [wrong client](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wrong-client/) - [forum](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/forum/) - [newbie](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/newbie/) - [taking ownership](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/taking-ownership/) - [FAQ](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/faq/) - [top questions](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/top-questions/) - [VA Forum](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-forum/) - [virtual assistant forum](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-forum/) - [greeting cards](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/greeting-cards/) - [niche business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/niche-business/) - [saying thankyou](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/saying-thankyou/) - [SOC](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/soc/) - [Small Business Festival](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/small-business-festival/) - [Small Business Vic](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/small-business-vic/) - [her to stay](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/her-to-stay/) - [industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/industry/) - [name](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/name/) - [term](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/term/) - [running a business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/running-a-business/) - [the cost of business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/the-cost-of-business/) - [peer groups](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/peer-groups/) - [Virtual Assistant support](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-support/) - [10 Tips](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/10-tips/) - [Getting Started Checklist](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/getting-started-checklist/) - [back up](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/back-up/) - [web hosting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/web-hosting/) - [directory listings](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/directory-listings/) - [Hotfrog](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/hotfrog/) - [abilities](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/abilities/) - [enjoyment](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/enjoyment/) - [gifts](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/gifts/) - [love your work](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/love-your-work/) - [talents](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/talents/) - [email list](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/email-list/) - [opt-in](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/opt-in/) - [subscribe](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/subscribe/) - [subscriptions](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/subscriptions/) - [unsubscribe](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/unsubscribe/) - [categories](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/categories/) - [efficiency](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/efficiency/) - [phone](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/phone/) - [rules](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/rules/) - [unaswered email](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/unaswered-email/) - [research](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/research/) - [surveys](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/surveys/) - [corporate world](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/corporate-world/) - [loneliness](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/loneliness/) - [infringement](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/infringement/) - [logo](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/logo/) - [trademark](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/trademark/) - [VA Trainer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-trainer/) - [Christmas event](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/christmas-event/) - [end of year](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/end-of-year/) - [face-to-face](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/face-to-face/) - [local](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/local/) - [resources](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/resources-2/) - [small business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/small-business/) - [2013](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/2013/) - [calendar](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/calendar/) - [new diary](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-diary/) - [stationery junkie](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/stationery-junkie/) - [VA Trainer Course](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-trainer-course/) - [Virtual Assistant education](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-assistant-education/) - [insurance services](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/insurance-services/) - [merchant facilities](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/merchant-facilities/) - [backing up](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/backing-up/) - [data protection](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/data-protection/) - [disaster recovery](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/disaster-recovery/) - [recovery plan](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/recovery-plan/) - [goals](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/goals/) - [plans](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/plans/) - [year](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/year/) - [seeking](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/seeking/) - [Sydney](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/sydney/) - [build a business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/build-a-business/) - [investment](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/investment/) - [return](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/return/) - [book](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/book/) - [paperback](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/paperback/) - [publication](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/publication/) - [self-publish](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/self-publish/) - [writer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/writer/) - [business page](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-page/) - [personal profile](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/personal-profile/) - [Using Facebook](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/using-facebook/) - [how](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/how/) - [facts](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/facts/) - [Live Interview](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/live-interview/) - [WSJ](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wsj/) - [history](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/history/) - [wayback machine](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wayback-machine/) - [contact sport](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/contact-sport/) - [supplier](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/supplier/) - [target market](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/target-market/) - [topic](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/topic/) - [building a business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/building-a-business/) - [building a home](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/building-a-home/) - [time](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/time/) - [Australian](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/australian/) - [Buy Australian](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/buy-australian/) - [confusion](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/confusion/) - [definition](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/definition/) - [perception](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/perception/) - [depression](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/depression/) - [isolation](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/isolation/) - [mindset](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mindset/) - [setting boundarings](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/setting-boundarings/) - [activities](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/activities/) - [personal time](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/personal-time/) - [weekends](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/weekends/) - ['work at home day'](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/work-at-home-day/) - [email signature](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/email-signature/) - [starting a business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/starting-a-business/) - [VA Directory](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-directory/) - [professional ratings](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/professional-ratings/) - [recommendations](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/recommendations/) - [references](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/references/) - [testimonials](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/testimonials/) - [head space](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/head-space/) - [Australian VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/australian-vas/) - [doing business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/doing-business/) - [off-shoring](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/off-shoring/) - [buying](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/buying/) - [fees](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fees/) - [client reasons](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/client-reasons/) - [survey](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/survey/) - [VA engagement](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-engagement/) - [administrative skills](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/administrative-skills/) - [age](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/age/) - [disabled](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/disabled/) - [too old](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/too-old/) - [anonymity](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/anonymity/) - [page rank](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/page-rank/) - [About](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/about/) - [information](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/information/) - [page](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/page/) - [built in a day](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/built-in-a-day/) - [expectations](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/expectations/) - [client base](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/client-base/) - [contacts](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/contacts/) - [consistency](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/consistency/) - [offline](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/offline/) - [online](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/online/) - [regularity](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/regularity/) - [address](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/address/) - [contact](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/contact/) - [pet peeve](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/pet-peeve/) - [phone number](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/phone-number/) - [address book](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/address-book/) - [gmail](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/gmail/) - [sending](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/sending/) - [healthcare](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/healthcare-2/) - [looking after self](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/looking-after-self/) - [OH&S](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/ohs/) - [community](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/community/) - [VA Networking](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-networking/) - [working from home](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/working-from-home/) - [getting that first client](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/getting-that-first-client/) - [digitral transcription](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/digitral-transcription/) - [experienced](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/experienced/) - [Endorsements](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/endorsements/) - [invitations](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/invitations/) - [Association](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/association/) - [Australian Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/australian-virtual-assistants/) - [AVAA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/avaa/) - [Meetup](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/meetup/) - [16/17 October](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/1617-october/) - [Office* Show](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/office-show/) - [bad form](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bad-form/) - [poaching](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/poaching/) - [bill paying](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bill-paying/) - [fake cheques/checks](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fake-chequeschecks/) - [uneasy](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/uneasy/) - [A Clayton's Secretary](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/a-claytons-secretary/) - [video clip](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/video-clip/) - [youtube](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/youtube/) - [Virutal Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virutal-assistants/) - [Australian Virtual Assistants Conference](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/australian-virtual-assistants-conference/) - [March 2014](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/march-2014/) - [Christmas Cards](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/christmas-cards/) - [low cost](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/low-cost/) - [personalised](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/personalised/) - [Firefox](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/firefox/) - [search](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/search/) - [taken over](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/taken-over/) - [Yahoo](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/yahoo/) - [Yahoo 7!](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/yahoo-7/) - [contactability](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/contactability/) - [website special](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/website-special/) - [20th anniversary](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/20th-anniversary/) - [special offer. Virtual Assistants](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/special-offer-virtual-assistants/) - [Los Angeles](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/los-angeles/) - [Starting a VA business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/starting-a-va-business/) - [VA Education](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-education/) - [speed track VA business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/speed-track-va-business/) - [being careful](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/being-careful/) - [client warning](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/client-warning/) - [packages](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/packages/) - [receiving mail](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/receiving-mail/) - [accountant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/accountant/) - [business sites](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-sites/) - [passion](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/passion/) - [photographer's VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/photographers-va/) - [photography](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/photography/) - [direction](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/direction/) - [drifting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/drifting/) - [mistakes](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mistakes/) - [values](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/values/) - [independent contractor](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/independent-contractor/) - [remote worker](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/remote-worker/) - [senior VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/senior-va/) - [business operator](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-operator/) - [description](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/description/) - [wikipedia](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wikipedia/) - [be a Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/be-a-virtual-assistant/) - [how to become a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/how-to-become-a-va/) - [starting business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/starting-business/) - [exercise](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/exercise/) - [going out](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/going-out/) - [internet](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/internet/) - [working online](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/working-online/) - [become a virtul assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/become-a-virtul-assistant/) - [not-for-profits](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/not-for-profits/) - [portfolio](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/portfolio/) - [voluntary help](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/voluntary-help/) - [kick-start](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/kick-start/) - [new year](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-year/) - [VA Training](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-training/) - [niche](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/niche/) - [Tips & Tricks](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tips-tricks/) - [meetings](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/meetings/) - [blessed](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/blessed/) - [family](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/family/) - [template](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/template/) - [scam](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/scam/) - [Frances Lowe](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/frances-lowe/) - [VA Story](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-story/) - [friends](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/friends/) - [likes](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/likes/) - [Gai Hook](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/gai-hook/) - [interview](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/interview/) - [Lyn Prowse-Bishop](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/lyn-prowse-bishop/) - [smell the roses](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/smell-the-roses/) - [misconception](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/misconception/) - [at home](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/at-home/) - [mature aged](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mature-aged/) - [redundant](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/redundant/) - [not a fill-in job](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/not-a-fill-in-job/) - [real work](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/real-work/) - [anti-spam](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/anti-spam/) - [laws](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/laws/) - [legislation](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/legislation/) - [spamming](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/spamming/) - [Janet Camilleri](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/janet-camilleri/) - [client requests](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/client-requests/) - [jobs for VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/jobs-for-vas/) - [get rich quick](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/get-rich-quick/) - [scheme](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/scheme/) - [free advice](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/free-advice/) - [pro bono](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/pro-bono/) - [work for free](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/work-for-free/) - [retainer](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/retainer/) - [contract](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/contract/) - [rate](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/rate/) - [examples](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/examples/) - [samples](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/samples/) - [everything](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/everything/) - [local presence](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/local-presence/) - [The Age](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/the-age/) - [newspaper article](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/newspaper-article/) - [VA stat](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-stat/) - [ABN](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/abn/) - [hashtags](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/hashtags/) - [instagram](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/instagram/) - [Quora](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/quora/) - [retirement](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/retirement/) - [secret](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/secret/) - [debt](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/debt/) - [owe](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/owe/) - [monies](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/monies/) - [budget](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/budget/) - [engage a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/engage-a-va/) - [hiring](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/hiring/) - [manage](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/manage/) - [new in business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-in-business/) - [anxiety](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/anxiety/) - [talking](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/talking/) - [relationships](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/relationships/) - [tips for VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tips-for-vas/) - [job offers](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/job-offers/) - [receipt](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/receipt/) - [acknowledgement](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/acknowledgement/) - [business anniversary](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-anniversary/) - [business celebration](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-celebration/) - [VATraining](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/vatraining/) - [reading](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/reading/) - [web management](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/web-management/) - [healthy](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/healthy/) - [health at work](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/health-at-work/) - [work focus](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/work-focus/) - [working out rates](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/working-out-rates/) - [being a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/being-a-va/) - [21st birthday](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/21st-birthday/) - [21 years](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/21-years/) - [work at home mum](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/work-at-home-mum/) - [work choices](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/work-choices/) - [lifestyle](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/lifestyle/) - [how to charge](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/how-to-charge/) - [new address](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/new-address/) - [shifting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/shifting/) - [post office box](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/post-office-box/) - [MailChimp](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mailchimp/) - [hacked](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/hacked/) - [list](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/list/) - [affiliate marketing](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/affiliate-marketing/) - [brand new VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/brand-new-va/) - [building a new website](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/building-a-new-website/) - [website for VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/website-for-vas/) - [website advice](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/website-advice/) - [giveaway](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/giveaway/) - [prizedraw](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/prizedraw/) - [lucky winner](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/lucky-winner/) - [businss](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/businss/) - [final giveaway](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/final-giveaway/) - [24 years](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/24-years/) - [#AVAC18](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/avac18/) - [subcontractor](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/subcontractor/) - [mailing list](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mailing-list/) - [subscribers](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/subscribers/) - [one client](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/one-client/) - [eggs in basket](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/eggs-in-basket/) - [lesson learnt](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/lesson-learnt/) - [VA website](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-website/) - [networking for business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/networking-for-business/) - [growing business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/growing-business/) - [angry client](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/angry-client/) - [business partner](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-partner/) - [understanding](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/understanding/) - [respect](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/respect/) - [website creation](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/website-creation/) - [building a new site](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/building-a-new-site/) - [sites for VAs](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/sites-for-vas/) - [VA coaching](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-coaching/) - [VA certification](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-certification/) - [VA certified](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/va-certified/) - [virtual employees](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/virtual-employees/) - [history of internet](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/history-of-internet/) - [history of VA Industry](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/history-of-va-industry/) - [fallacy](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fallacy/) - [Facebook account](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/facebook-account/) - [two accounts](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/two-accounts/) - [one account](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/one-account/) - [TOS](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tos/) - [gate-keeping](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/gate-keeping/) - [charges](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/charges/) - [name check](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/name-check/) - [namech_k](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/namech_k/) - [branding](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/branding/) - [footprint](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/footprint/) - [cost of business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/cost-of-business/) - [refresh](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/refresh/) - [refocus](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/refocus/) - [motivation](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/motivation/) - [first website](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/first-website/) - [rocky and bullwinkle](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/rocky-and-bullwinkle/) - [WABAC machine](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wabac-machine/) - [employee vs contractor](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/employee-vs-contractor/) - [not an employee](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/not-an-employee/) - [afford a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/afford-a-va/) - [professional development](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/professional-development/) - [growing your business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/growing-your-business/) - [good skills](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/good-skills/) - [Facebook broken](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/facebook-broken/) - [25 years](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/25-years/) - [encouragement](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/encouragement/) - [support](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/support/) - [kindness](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/kindness/) - [dotheresearch](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/dotheresearch/) - [Wix](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/wix/) - [Weebly](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/weebly/) - [Squarespace](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/squarespace/) - [Joomla](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/joomla/) - [Shopify](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/shopify/) - [Paid hosting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/paid-hosting/) - [free hosting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/free-hosting/) - [getting started](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/getting-started/) - [number of clients](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/number-of-clients/) - [regular income](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/regular-income/) - [resume](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/resume/) - [setting a budget](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/setting-a-budget/) - [word-of-mouth](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/word-of-mouth/) - [developing skills](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/developing-skills/) - [skill set](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/skill-set/) - [companionship](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/companionship/) - [fulfillment](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/fulfillment/) - [satisfaction](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/satisfaction/) - [setting a goal](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/setting-a-goal/) - [making money](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/making-money/) - [running a VA business](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/running-a-va-business/) - [coronavirus](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/coronavirus/) - [systems](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/systems/) - [home-based](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/home-based/) - [business is running](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-is-running/) - [economy](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/economy/) - [engaging a VA](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/engaging-a-va/) - [long-term support](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/long-term-support/) - [COVID-19](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/covid-19/) - [Zoom](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/zoom/) - [children work at home](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/children-work-at-home/) - [including children in your work](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/including-children-in-your-work/) - [bad check](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/bad-check/) - [be aware](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/be-aware/) - [protection](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/protection/) - [service offerings](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/service-offerings/) - [Manager](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/manager/) - [microsoft email](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/microsoft-email/) - [email address](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/email-address/) - [podcast](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/podcast/) - [Christmas](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/christmas/) - [getting organised](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/getting-organised/) - [happiness](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/happiness/) - [business development](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/business-development/) - [tracking](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tracking/) - [solopreneur](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/solopreneur/) - [Goal Setting](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/goal-setting/) - [90 Day Planning](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/90-day-planning/) - [SMART Goals](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/smart-goals/) - [tax](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tax/) - [tax time](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/tax-time/) - [courses](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/courses/) - [Mentoring](https://www.vadirectory.net/tag/mentoring/) ## VA Directory - Categories - [Administration](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/administration/) - [EA/PA](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/ea-pa/) - [Document Formatting](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/document-formatting/) - [Marketing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/marketing/) - [Events Management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/events-management/) - [Database Management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/database-management/) - [Broadcast Emails](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/broadcast-emails/) - [Legal Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/legal-assistant/) - [Phone Answering & Receptionist](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/phone-answering-receptionist/) - [Copywriting](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/copywriting/) - [Technical](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/technical/) - [FB & IG Ad Management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/fb-ig-ad-management/) - [Project Management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/project-management/) - [Ghost Writing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/ghost-writing/) - [Telemarketing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/telemarketing/) - [Social Media Management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/social-media-management/) - [Website Design & Maintenance](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/website-design-maintenance/) - [Business Manager](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/business-manager/) - [Bookkeeping](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/bookkeeping/) - [Powerpoint Specialist](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/powerpoint-specialist/) - [Resume Writer](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/resume-writer/) - [Basic Graphic Design / DTP](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/basic-graphic-design-dtp/) - [Transcription](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/transcription/) - [Minute Taking](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/minute-taking/) - [Sales & Marketing Funnels](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/sales-marketing-funnels/) - [Author's Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/authors-assistant/) - [Process Mapping](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/process-mapping/) - [Simplified Automation](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/simplified-automation/) - [Podcast Production](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/podcast-production/) - [Online Business Manager (OBM)](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/obm/) - [Virtual Reception](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/virtual-reception/) - [Recruitment](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/recruitment/) - [HR Support](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/categories/hr-support/) ## VA Directory - Tags - [Web Design and Development](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/web-design-and-development/) - [WordPress](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/wordpress/) - [Bookkeeping](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/bookkeeping/) - [administration](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/administration/) - [Documents](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/documents/) - [Systems](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/systems/) - [Transcriptions](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/transcriptions/) - [Workplace Investigations](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/workplace-investigations/) - [Document editing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/document-editing/) - [Proofreading](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/proofreading/) - [#marketing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/marketing/) - [#socialmediamarketing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/socialmediamarketing/) - [#officeadministration](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/officeadministration/) - [Active Campaign](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/active-campaign/) - [#email](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/email/) - [#websites](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/websites/) - [Excel](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/excel/) - [Powerpoint](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/powerpoint/) - [Canva](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/canva/) - [email marketing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/email-marketing/) - [sales pages](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/sales-pages/) - [website support and maintenance](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/website-support-and-maintenance/) - [wix](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/wix/) - [coreldraw](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/coreldraw/) - [indesign](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/indesign/) - [social media support](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/social-media-support/) - [document formatting](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/document-formatting/) - [data entry](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/data-entry/) - [presentations](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/presentations/) - [spreadsheets](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/spreadsheets/) - [document creation](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/document-creation/) - [online research](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/online-research/) - [content creation](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/content-creation/) - [holistic](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/holistic/) - [social media](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/social-media/) - [digital marketing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/digital-marketing/) - [Allied health](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/allied-health/) - [Business documentation](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/business-documentation/) - [Policies and procedures](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/policies-and-procedures/) - [Automation and integration](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/automation-and-integration/) - [Content writing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/content-writing/) - [leaflets](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/leaflets/) - [menus](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/menus/) - [microsoft word](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/microsoft-word/) - [word tables](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/word-tables/) - [word forms](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/word-forms/) - [email](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/email-2/) - [time management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/time-management/) - [scheduling](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/scheduling/) - [inbox management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/inbox-management/) - [admin support](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/admin-support/) - [zoom support](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/zoom-support/) - [zoom meeting management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/zoom-meeting-management/) - [#onlinebusinessmanager](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/onlinebusinessmanager/) - [#obm](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/obm/) - [#certifiedobm](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/certifiedobm/) - [Virtual Assistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/virtual-assistant/) - [#Document Formatting](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/document-formatting-2/) - [dataentry](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/dataentry/) - [Copy typing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/copy-typing/) - [list compilation](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/list-compilation/) - [Newsletters](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/newsletters/) - [Photo editing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/photo-editing/) - [#ServiceM8](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/servicem8/) - [Business Management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/business-management/) - [General Administration](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/general-administration/) - [#emailcleansing #websitereview #Invoicing #personalshopper #standardoperatingprocedures](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/emailcleansing-websitereview-invoicing-personalshopper-standardoperatingprocedures/) - [tradie support](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/tradie-support/) - [email management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/email-management/) - [sunflowerfactorybusinesssupportspecialist](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/sunflowerfactorybusinesssupportspecialist/) - [sunflowerfactoryvirtualassistant](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/sunflowerfactoryvirtualassistant/) - [businesssupportservices](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/businesssupportservices/) - [businesssupport](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/businesssupport/) - [socialmediamarketing](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/socialmediamarketing-2/) - [email service providers](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/email-service-providers/) - [online business management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/online-business-management/) - [estimator](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/estimator/) - [contract admin](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/contract-admin/) - [drafter](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/drafter/) - [research](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/research/) - [Practice Management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/practice-management/) - [Payments](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/payments/) - [Appointment Scheduling](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/appointment-scheduling/) - [calendar management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/calendar-management/) - [#Administration](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/administration-2/) - [#Allied Health](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/allied-health-2/) - [#NDIS](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/ndis/) - [#Appointment Scheduling](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/appointment-scheduling-2/) - [#Client Engagement](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/client-engagement/) - [#Email Management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/email-management-2/) - [#Event Coordination](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/event-coordination/) - [#Corporate Golf](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/corporate-golf/) - [#Transcription](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/transcription-2/) - [MS Office](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/ms-office/) - [ODMS Cloud](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/odms-cloud/) - [Asana](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/asana/) - [#Cliniko](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/cliniko/) - [#Notion](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/notion/) - [#business support](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/business-support/) - [#Neurodivergent](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/neurodivergent/) - [virtual admin](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/virtual-admin/) - [database management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/database-management/) - [blogs](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/blogs/) - [Content Management](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/content-management/) - [Smokeball](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/smokeball/) - [sandraorrbusinesssolutions](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/tags/sandraorrbusinesssolutions/) ## VA Directory - Locations - [Australia](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/locations/australia/) - [Australian Capital Territory](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/locations/australian-capital-territory/) - [New South Wales](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/locations/new-south-wales/) - [Victoria](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/locations/victoria/) - [Queensland](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/locations/queensland/) - [Western Australia](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/locations/western-australia/) - [South Australia](https://www.vadirectory.net/directory-va_directory/locations/south-australia/)