UPDATE: this list is now updated (much longer!) and available as a printable checklist with space for notes, etc. in our Free Document Library.
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OK, now I know this is going to take some time to work out but I would *love* to create a
master to do list of what needs to be done to get started with a VA practice - from concept to launch.
I think this could be really beneficial so please feel free to pitch in - please post with any additional steps you feel are important. Once we're done I expect we'll have a really nice resource for new VAs!
Basic 'to do' list for launching a VA practice:
-List your skills and strengths - focus on those things in particular that you enjoy doing. Brainstorm a list of possible service offerings using this list.
-With these skills and services in mind - brainstorm the particular niche(s) or market(s) you'd most enjoy working with. Which industries and/or types of entrepreneurs/business owners will most likely benefit from your services.
-Write at least a simple business plan with a few goals for 3, 6, 9 and 12 months out (keep this in a notebook where you will have room to edit, expand, add notes, etc. your business plan should be a virtually organic, growing entity that acommodates for change and growth in your practice.)
-Research VA and various other service industry rates, your local business market, and any other factors that will impact how much you will charge your clients.
-Consider your business policies for things such as late payment, new clients, how you will invoice (how often), how payment will be accepted, how your clients will communicate with you, when you will be available, if there are any non-traditional holidays you will not be available, etc. etc. Will you offer rush services? Will you be available weekends? How will you handle work requests that you are not skilled for?
Many of your business policies will develop as your business develops, however - the basics should be outlined *before* you find your first client so that you are presenting your practice and your own expectations in a strong, clear manner.
-Determine a business name - initial branding (logo? tagline? color/design? theme? etc.)
-Research, select, and file a business entity with your state (will you file an LLC, sole proprietorship, S-Corporation, etc?) LLC is a common choice among VAs and is relatively inexpensive to set up.
-Set up your business bank account
-Set up a Paypal account and link it to your business bank account
-Make sure you have all of the necessary equipment you will need. Bare minimum: a good, consistent internet connection, a viable computer, office software, any programs or hardware that are relative to your skill set and tasks you will be completing.
-Craft your contract(s) and/or letters of agreement. Ensure they make all of your business policies infinitely clear.
-Consider learning new skills, new programs, making sense of new information etc. (A truly professional VA is always learning, and always adapting his or her skill set toward the latest technology and internet trends.) Which new skills will enhance what you can already do? Which new skills can you learn efficiently and without a large monetary investmen?
-Create (or have created for you) a professional business website. Your website should give an immediately clear message about who you are, what you are, and what you offer. At a bare minimum you should have a page for your rates, for your services, for your contact information, for your 'about me' information. Consider starting a business blog, e newsletter, creating a resources page for those who visit your site, or adding other features that will give your potential clients and site visitors a reason to return to your URL and help establish you as an expert in your niche/industry.
-Create and order your professional business cards, or print them yourself.
-Develop your marketing materials. Research various options and start getting your name out there!
-Start to develop your network. Research various on and offline communities, organizations, meetups, and chambers of commerce, etc. Immerse yourself in the activities of the ones that feel most comfortable to you. Stretch your comfort level a bit every once in a while to participate in things and events you wouldn't ordinarily take part in. Give your business card or marketing materials to everyone you meet.
Does anyone else have anything to add?? 