Thinking that all clients have to be virtual. Just because you are a Virtual Assistant and can work virtually does not mean all your clients have to come via the web. Many do not realise that they have potential clients next door, down the street, around the corner and at local businesses.
This is why networking is such an important aspect of running a business – any business.
Many do not realise they can have a mix of clients that are both local and virtual and this will not happen overnight – it will take time. Eventually clients will refer others to you and since you operate virtually their location is usually irrelevant.
So search out business networks that are local to you and get to know other local business owners. All have the same or similar administrative needs and when they get to know you (as often relationships DO count) they will not only ask for your assistance but tell others about you too. I have many local clients, in fact over 80% of my clients are local to me, however I rarely see them face-to-face as most contact is done via email with occasional phone, fax, mail or courier contact. The rest of my clients are interstate or overseas and we use email primarily with Skype or phone as secondary forms of contact.
So, remember that your clients don’t have to be in another region and 100% virtual – they can be someone you’ve met at the local corner shop!
virtual clients, local clients, business networking, virtual assistant, virtual assistant business
Kathie is the former owner of VA Directory and is former past President of the Australian VA Association. She founded the Virtual Assistant industry in Australia in the mid 90s, having already been operating a home-based secretarial service. Today the VA industry covers a multitude of office-based services for clients worldwide.
Diane Coville says
You are so right, Kathie. I “started” with local clients I had met through networking before I joined VA groups on-line. I have focused in the last year on internet networking but find I am now being revisited by past local clients who have new projects and tasks and have come back to me. May I add another comment to your Number 3 Mistake or should it be a new one? Once you acquire clients, even though it may not be a continuing relationship for work every week or every month, don’t forget to revisit these past clients with announcements about added services, special pricing, discounts, etc. to keep in touch with them. In other words, do not forget your past/present clients in your quest to add new clients. Your past/present clients may not need your services all the time, but they may very well refer you to others, either now or in the future…
Sherra Scott ~ Virtual Assistant says
I completely agree with you Kathie! My first 3 clients were from my local area. I have since gained clients on both U.S. coasts, but local seems to be “where it’s at” for me. And I haven’t laid eyes on any of them in months!
Michelle Mangen says
Very good advice. I’m going to my first networking event today. Recently I was at the grocery store and while waiting in line I picked up the Complete Idiots Guide to Making More Money and Working Less. The cashier commented on the book and I replied that I had just started my own business…as it turns out he and some friends need accounting work so I gave him my business card. He told me it would be after the first of the year (meaning I should hear from him soon)….but who would have thought?
Lee Drozak says
Again you are right on the mark. I have both local and not so local clients and all are invaluable to my business. Never overlook what is right in your own backyard, even smaller mom and pops need our help too.
Liz Parker says
Hi Kathy, You make some really good points. Gaining networking skills is also a personal development activity and helps you gain confidence and self-esteem as you become more practiced at it.
However, there are many VA’s who live and work in isolated situations who don’t have the opportunity to network be it either due to location or personal circumstances and they need to attract clients. This together with the lack of knowledge about the VA industry in Australia makes it very difficult for them to start out. Which is why organisations such as A Clayton’s Secretary are so important in assisting VA’s obtain clients.
Marney Lewis says
Good point …although you run a virtual assistance business your clients don’t have to be. I think it is a complimentary blend to have virtual and fact to face clientele if you can. Either way it is the exposure and the networking, not to mention the quality of work that will grow your business.
Ann R says
I just discovered your web site today while doing research on Workplace Ministry. I am sorry for your loss, and cannot imagine how hard that must be.
You apparently have a home business, but I am not sure what you do.
Feel free to respond.
Ann