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 for work to be completed and he needed to see examples before the chosen VA could start. In this case, PowerPoint presentations and they needed to be advanced … [Read more...]
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 more than one client. They are not employees so no client has the right to demand or ask that a VA doesn't take on any other clients. … [Read more...]
I’m a Virtual Assistant and I don’t 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, Diplomas and other forms of documents that show they've put in the work required to earn them. And then years of working in the corporate world, or a particular industry, to later set up a business as a … [Read more...]
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 business, it still takes time to get sufficient clients to establish a full-time income, even if you show a profit much quicker than traditional business. There's a lot you need to do, … [Read more...]
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 read as it will give you some great tips in setting up your new business. What about the type of VA you'll become? Again, my article "What type of VA are you?" will give you more information to process. The next … [Read more...]
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 you can learn how to operate your VA business. Often the lower the cost, the more attractive the site will seem, especially when you are wanting to earn an income but don't yet … [Read more...]
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 network is worth giving a try for a full 12 months. It takes a while to understand how any group works and takes a while to get into the swing of things. Make sure you join their … [Read more...]
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 a week, it gave me some flexibility which is important to a working mum (no matter how old your kids are!). People kept telling me that at the two year point I would look back on it as one of … [Read more...]
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 by the list - if you're taking it over. If building from scratch, encourage the client to build their list organically by networking wherever they can and collect business cards and also by using their … [Read more...]
