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, corporate facilitator and speaking coach. I eliminate stress for event organizers as their ‘professional up front’ and for speakers who need a little or a lot of help delivering their message.
I was born in the US, educated in Japan (speak Japanese fluently) and have lived in Sydney for over 20 years.
When did you realize you needed admin support for your business?
When I was getting behind in the admin tasks and wanted to take on a few new projects
What type of support did you originally obtain?
Initially it was with formatting documents, collating articles, etc
Is the support you receive today the same as then or has that changed and if so, how?
My VA has been outstanding and anything I have inquired about, she has found the information for me or learned about it to assist me. So since our first meeting, we have worked through many different types of projects and I have met with her face to face to brainstorm ideas for my business. She has shared systems and ideas to simplify the way I work.
Do you have more than one VA supporting you, and if so, perhaps you’d like to give a brief idea what the difference is?
No just one, but she finds a way to assist me in all areas whether it is a referral to another source or a link for information.
How did you find out about this type of support?
Through another one of her raving fans (clients!)
How long have you had your current VA? (Feel free to name who they are)
I have been working with Monika Newman for about 2 years
Anything else you’d like to share?
Out of the blue, I often receive information/opportunities from Monika that are beneficial to me; she always has my business top of mind, which is great as it’s difficult to work on and in the business, all the time.
She is inspiring because she remains inspired. Monika is a keen learner, attending workshops and seminars on a variety of topics, to pick up new ideas and tips whether it’s of a general nature or within the VA support genre. Not only does this help her in her VA role, but she is great company too!
Beverly Mahone says
I noticed in the interview that she indicated she had met her VA. Is that always advisable? Or can you find someone “virtually” whom you may never meet–but still trust to do your administrative work?
Kathie Thomas says
It’s not a problem Beverly and some clients do meet their VAs face-to-face but it doesn’t have to be that way. I have clients I have met who live local to me, i.e. in the same state, and then I have clients who are interstate or overseas that I’ve never met. The relationship still works very well.
You can find someone virtually – and often those clients I’ve never met have come to me through word-of-mouth referral, or they’ve read about me in an article or met me at a forum. Forums are a great way for developing a virtual relationship and getting to know and trust others.
Monika says
Beverly I have a few clients who I have never met face to face and we work together very well and both work towards a positive outcome. It is not necessary to meet, unless the client requires some onsite work.
The key to working virtually is good communication, a common goal and making sure you stay “on the same page”.
Meeting clients face to face does add another dimension though and I am always really excited to meet online clients and other online contacts face to face.
I have some lovely clients and really appreciate Camille’s feedback.