kgbookkeeper: I've found that most prospects on oDesk won't allow you to apply for a job unless you've taken/passed various oDesk tests. What's your take on this?

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Romaine;
Outsource bookkeeping solutions www.smbizstartups.com

This is a great thread! Although I can't answer the question as I'm not up and running yet, it helps give me perspective on the upcoming adventure!

Thanks guys! :0)

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Marg Robins

I have taken the tests that pertain to my field. The tests are just there to prove you know what you say you know. Taking and passing tests is the best way to get your profile noticed when you submit your proposal.

Hey guys,
I am also in the process to launch my business. I am based in Pakistan, however I have managed to find a potential client and If he likes my work things will start rolling hopefully.

CyndiJorgetsen you are very lucky to have a mentor in the start, It is great help my friend also got started that way in the bookkeeping business. I love detail so I cannot see myself doing anything else

Marketing is a big aspect for any business so I think everyone trying to launch focus on the marketing alot.

Have you found it odesk or elance good place to find long-term clients.
I heard peope trying to find VA's from their are more focused on real cheap rates
rather then quality work.
What does the test entail focused from accounting software?

I have only found two clients on oDesk. The first one lasted six months, and the second one I just started working with last week. I agree that most people are only looking for cheap labor, but it is possible to find good clients. I only use oDesk to supplement my income. It is good if you're just starting out, but it would be really hard to earn a decent living solely from those types of sites. The tests are just basic knowledge of QuickBooks, accounting principles, accounts payable and receivable, cash flow, etc. They are 40 questions each. The QuickBooks test is for QuickBooks 2008, and I was surprised I did so well on it because I can barely remember what can and can't be done in the 2008 version. No one uses it anymore. Maybe they will update the test soon.

Thanks for all the great posts! Guess I won't be ruling out Odesk. I'll start taking the tests and then submit some bids. BTW, I just signed on with a new client from my Craigslist ad.

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Romaine;
Outsource bookkeeping solutions www.smbizstartups.com

Luckily I had my 1st client before I launched. But I was actually expecting to have to wait about 6 months to get a bite.

I received my first client through VA4U - I have a listing there. It took a long time however and am still trying to get more clients through other means of marketing.

I had my first client before I launched. I had been working for her inhouse and our family was moving out of town. She said 'no problem, I want you to be my Virtual Assistant". Ten years ago, it was a term I had never heard. Stll....ten years later.....to obtain new clients I have to continue to network. Obtaining clients never "stops" as long as you own a business and want to grow.

Best wishes!

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Cathryn Jones
Assistants For Agents, LLC