Hello all!

This is my first post and this is such a great resource to have stumbled on.

So, my degree is in dance. I have danced and choreographed professionally for years, but art is (unless you're fabulously fortunate) a part time gig. A year ago, I started a business plan to open an adult only dance studio. In the process of supplementing, I kept taking on side work and projects, mostly from old employers who trusted me.

I didn't realize how much I had done until tax time. 1099- ouch! Yet I realize I have made a nice chunk of change as a contractor. I have done everything from customer service to SEO to Social Media Marketing, etc, etc. My studio plans have reached some pretty big obstacles, and while re-evaluating, I decided to really start pushing to make this something.

Anyhow, so sorry to babble. I am not 'official', though I have a website (aprilfrancomaclean.com). I am starting to really think about 'niche', and I had some questions:

What do you think are the major differences between working for men and working for women. I see a market and need for both, but they seem like they would require some shifts in thinking...


Thanks!

haha! That is a loaded question for sure. I have had both men and women clients and this probably isn't the answer you are looking for, but it all depends on the person.

I would suggest taking a personality profile assessment to find out your type and then try to compliment your style with the clients you choose to work with. For example, with DISC testing, High C VA's work well with a client with a D personality. Some clients need passive assistants, some need aggressive assistants.

Good luck

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Melissa
Virtual Assistant

Hi April
I don't really find a difference based on gender so much as just the usual personality types. I do know that some VAs specifically market to and work with women business owners and that can work as a direction, to be sure though it's only a start in terms of narrowing down where you're aiming.

Since you are into dance, etc. have you thought about focusing on working with people in the field? I worked for a long time with a producer/choreographer with a studio in NYC and found her industry to be incredibly fascinating. I would think that as someone who understands the intricacies of all that goes into it you'd have an edge to offer clients. Just a thought

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@Amac23 Thanks for this post, I am thinking about narrow my niche to men business owners. However, I was wondering about the marketing

For me it doesn't matter whether its a man or woman that I work for. I just look for the best fit.

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Angela Samuels
AuthorVirtualAssistant.com

Wonderful to see a dancer here! It was always my first love - began dance lessons after much begging at 5 until 20 -- felt it was my whole life ... and now seems a lifetime ago. Please feel welcome to hang out here at VAF often - you will learn so much and have so much support! I am confident too because of your niche you will have a lot to offer VAF as well! Good Luck!