Starting a Virtual Assistant business can be overwhelming and confusing. If you've done any research on the web you know there is SO much information out there it can make your head spin. And, you can get so overwhelmed by what you've found that you don't know where to start or what to do first. This is what I like to call "Analysis Paralysis". You spend all your time researching and NO time implementing. I know, I've been there!
Here are 7 tips to help you start your VA business and move beyond "Analysis Paralysis".
1 - Determine your Why - write down why you became a VA and post it somewhere you can see it daily for motivation.
2 - Choose a name that feels right - make sure it's not trademarked by visiting http://www.uspto.gov/trademarks/index.jsp
3 - Make a list of skills - remove the ones that you do not enjoy doing!
4 - Set your rates - do not undervalue yourself and what your service are worth!
5 - Define your ideal client - ask yourself what type of person do you like to work with? Write down their characteristics.
6 - Define your systems & processes - have a process for signing on new clients including VA contracts, client intake form, etc.
7 - Find a buddy or mentor - find someone to offer support and motivation when you are feeling low and stuck.
And most of all, don't give up! You will have bad days but, keep pushing forward and remember why you became a Virtual Assistant.
Should You Become a Virtual Assistant?
I get asked A LOT, what it's like being a Virtual Assistant. I am more than happy to share because I know there are many moms/women stuck in miserable dead-end jobs feeling like they have no options. I was in that same position once too; I know how "that" feels. But I think people also ask because they secretly want to know if I am starving to death or ready to fade away from boredom.I am happy to say, NO to both :)
Creating a Virtual Assistant Resume
Working as a virtual assistant doesn't require you to have certain credentials and qualifications. If you want a successful home business and don't have prior experience, offer services to your clients based on your existing skills. There are additional factors to take into consideration. You should have a well equipped home office and the necessary certifications if you are going to offer services that require them, but one of the most important tools that a successful virtual assistant has is a well written resume. Unfortunately, a lot of people don't know how to write a resume that gets noticed by potential clients.
Virtual Assistant Tips for Communication
If you're going to be a successful virtual assistant, then you absolutely have to be an effective communicator. In this line of work, you will be expected to communicate with your employers and, in some cases, with clients several times throughout the day. If you are not good at expressing yourself both verbally and with the written word, then there is no way that you can succeed. Fortunately, being a good communicator isn't all that difficult if you keep a few simple tips in mind.
