Has anyone heard of or read the Virtual Services Special Report? As a former researcher, I'm always very interested in research numbers and correlations between demographics/characteristics and outcomes (i.e. how does education level relate to earned income level.)

I'm tempted to purchase this report but I am not sure where the data came from, how it was obtained and other methodology issues- such as how is virtual assistant/professional defined for the purposes of this report. Here is synopsis of what's included in the report.

Quote:

This 336-page Special Report describes the results of an extensive study to determine the profiles, pricing, and revenue of virtual professionals in the global marketplace. A 38-page addendum for Australia is included free. The demographic profiles focus on the geographic location, gender, work location preferences, education, experience, services provided, and industries served by virtual professionals in the U.S., Canada, China, and India. It shows the prices being charged by virtual professionals and describes how much they earn selling virtual services to buyers all over the world. Over 175 price distribution charts and statistical tables give the reader a clear view of virtual service today. The Special Report on the virtual services industry includes a best business practices model that describes why certain virtual companies are more successful than others. It provides statistical proof that, when done right, selling virtual services can be even more profitable than you ever imagined. Learn about the challenges and opportunities associated with outsourcing services today, and read how others are meeting those challenges and succeeding in this fiercely competitive environment.

So I wanted to see if anyone else had some information about this report or was familiar with it.

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Kimberly
Facebook Marketing Magic!

I did some research and it seems legitimate. I am not familiar with Virtual Assistance U which charges $1,500 for classes. I am also not familiar with Michelle Ulrich who is a VA in California who seems to endorse the document. At $35 the PDF would be a cheaper alternative. If you get it let us know if you feel it is a good investment.

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Lisa Olinda of Olinda Services
Keeping you on the path to success!
www.olindaservices.com

I also noticed the endorsement form VAU.

I should clarify that this report is on the Virtual Services Industry, which includes Virtual Assistance, but I think that by terming it Virtual Services, they are including other freelancers such as Web Designers.

I believe it's legitimate, I'm just wondering if it would be worth the $35.

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Kimberly
Facebook Marketing Magic!

Hi Kimberly,

I can't really tell you whether it's worth spending your money on as I have not purchased it myself. However -- from discussions on other forums -- the Brenner books have always been spoken of with respect. I also happen to know Michelle Ulrich and she is a highly respected VA in the industry.

Sharon Williams will be able to tell you about it. Brenner has done two official surveys of our industry to my knowledge. And Sharon is this month's interview, so if you haven't met her yet, pop over and find out more and ask her while you're there.

The first report didn't have Australia in it and the second one did. It was only as complete as they could get word out that it was happening - many of the VA networks did try to spread the word and get people to participate in the surveys but you can never get everyone.

Thanks for your input, everyone. It's been helpful. I really love numbers and research reports and this one looked interesting to me.

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Kimberly
Facebook Marketing Magic!