Well, I'm back to this issue of name again. I don't think the name I have selected is going to work for me with the way that I want my business to go. As some of you know, I graduated from law school. I am planning to take the bar exam. Instead of the traditional practice of law, I am wanting to do more of a consulting type thing. Know what I mean? Like business consulting and consulting on legal aspects of starting a business and growing it. I am thinking that most people's definition of virtual assistant does not include this type of work, although I could be wrong. It would greatly help me if I can get some opinions from those of you who have more experience as a virtual assistant and more experience working with others.

Thanks!

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~ Tami
Kelley Virtual Solutions

I think that is what makes being a VA business owner so great. There is no box unless you create one. Starting next June I will be offering ODR services (Online Dispute Resolution).

That is certainly not something I've seen before but that's why it's called a niche. I say go for it, advertise and market; being unique is what makes us as VA's great.

And congratulations on graduation from law school!

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Monique Terrell, CEO
Sparkle Professional Office Services, LLC
www.sparkleofficeservices.com

Cool answer, Monique. Tami, I'm not getting the connection between your business name and your niche questions. And I'm also not clear about the work you want to do. Is it small business coaching or business consultation on legal matters (in which case you'd basically be practicing as a lawyer, right?)

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Mary H. Ruth/Virtual Writing & Communications
http://www.writingVA.com

Monique, I completely understand what you mean. However, I think that my business name and branding myself as a "virtual assistant" may be limiting. I have found that many people seem to have a misconception about what a virtual assistant does, if they've even heard the term before. So, I'm considering changing the name and possibly toning down the focus on the term virtual assistant, and was just wondering what experiences others have encountered with what people assume they do or whatever.

Mary, I want to do some of the more "traditional" services while also doing things that are more along the lines of business consultation. There are many things that can be discussed with someone that is of a legal nature that would not be considered the practice of law.

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~ Tami
Kelley Virtual Solutions

Is there a need to have a business name straight away? Why not just operate under your own name for now and once you're on a more surer (if there is such a word) path, then think about a name then.

I don't see why you have to use the term virtual assistant. Why not "virtual legal services" or "virtual legal consultant"? Something in that arena.

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Rebecka Melson ~ Virtual Business Services

You may want to use some form of the phrase "virtual law office" then specify what state(s) you are licensed to practice law in. If you're in the United States that is.

Tami,

Instead of branding yourself as a virtual assistant you could brand yourself as a virtual professional and take it from there.

The only limits we have are the ones we create ourselves, you can be what ever you want to be.

Kim