I found this interesting link regarding stumbling blocks in business. http://www.virtualassistantheadquart...ss-growth.html

The one that interested me the most was number 4. "Refusal to target a market" because there seem to have been alot of questions about the importance of establishing a niche in the VA business. Happy reading everyone.

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Serita Diana, the List 2 Close Assistant
REVA Academy

That is very interesting! My biggest problem has been #1, fear. Fear of "hurting" my current boss, even though she is not keeping up her end of our agreement. Fear of not being able to find clients. Fear of not being good enough.

I had that same fear of finding clients, but I have been given some wonderful opportunities this week. I think the biggest thing is looking for those opportunities and not being afraid to step out and do what you do best.

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Serita Diana, the List 2 Close Assistant
REVA Academy

I have a great source of support, both with friends and family who are behind me, and from others on here. Thing is, when I posted my story on a spree email group I'm on, I got a phone call from a lady who's on there, in marketing and she really encouraged me to go out on my own. She voiced alot of my fears before I did and really did alot to appease them. I KNOW I can do this and be successful!

That is one really good list. Thank you, Serita.

I see myself as having a mix of a lot of things, a little bit here and there. I.e. too many random efforts, true, but not really a lack of planning. Just more towards impatience to see which one works.

Another one is the fear and confusion. Not because of being over-whelmed by the size of the tasks, more so because other things come up and sometimes prioritizing, unfortunately, is not an option.

Overall, a really good reminder, no matter what stage of the business you're in.

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-Jean
Simplify it, delegate it.

I think looking at this list, regardless of the stage of your business, can really help you to focus. If you start to stumble then just focus in on what you need to improve and your business will improve.

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Serita Diana, the List 2 Close Assistant
REVA Academy

This is a great list Serita. I'm still in the "focusing" stages, trying to determine what skills I will market and to whom. My biggest fear is finding the clients, then being able to service their needs. Just takes a lot of planning.

That is an excellent article. I love how they talk about marketing and the importance of building relationships. That is so right on the money.

Fear is a biggie for me too. It does get easier, but boy can that self-doubt come into play. For me, it's the ole' "am I good enough to do that." I try to overcome that with one thing I know about myself is that I always give 200%. That helps me to know that I'll grow and get better. I always too start everyday fresh. If yesterday was not so good, today's a new day. What can I do today to make it better.

Thanks!
Diana Ennen
Virtual Word Publishing
www.virtualwordpublishing.com

My HUGE strategy in taking calls, starting the day out right, and doing my best to keep it a good day is to answer every call with a smile, start out smiling, and always smile. If you keep a smile on your face you are much more likely to have a positive outlook. I keep a mirror on my desk for just this reason. Use a mirror when speaking to PCs so that you know you are smiling when speaking with them. My other one is to always have a schedule for your day. You will get so much more accomplished! Have a great day everyone!

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Serita Diana, the List 2 Close Assistant
REVA Academy