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 in front of a computer at least 5 days a week and not venturing outside much at all. To get something to eat is just a walk to the kitchen which is in the room next door. Hardly any exercise … [Read more...]
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 since that time, for the industry and there are VAs in many countries around the world now. We don't all operate the same way, nor do we charge the same rates. We have a myriad of experiences, … [Read more...]
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 time networking with other business owners - not VAs but people who need your services. This can be through online business groups at Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+ and elsewhere, as well as locally … [Read more...]
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 experience with me during their teens. It gave them an opportunity to earn money and learn something of what I do and develop their computer skills. I like that working at home can provide your children with an example of what … [Read more...]
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 didn't know they were trying to contact you. What is wrong with using the phone these days? Or make contact other ways, i.e. PM via Facebook or other social media if those people are … [Read more...]
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 even bothering to respond, otherwise I just block and delete. Do they have a signature block, with their name, phone number and website? If no, ignore immediately. If they can't represent their business on … [Read more...]
It’s 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 he had a good birthday? I saw it on their Facebook page. Then I commented on their new website and how lovely it is. They started asking questions about me, where I live, what do I do? I explained about being a Virtual Assistant and … [Read more...]
Do I need a website as a VA?
Simple answer is 'yes' - if you're going to operate a business virtually, it is important you have a web presence. I mean, most other businesses have websites don't they? So why not you too? Clients will want to check you out and also, once the search engines have got it listed, people should be able to find you when seeking out your particular type of service. I was asked this question and below is the answer I gave that new VA. However, if funds are tight you can choose to do some other … [Read more...]
It’s 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 and they don't think they can make this work. When being questioned how long they've been in business the usual answer is 'a month', 'a few weeks', or 'I've just … [Read more...]
