Hello,

I have been toying around the idea of becoming a VA for almost two years now. I went as far as having a website and mailing out brochures for my business. Unfortunately, I haven't gotten any call back and I got discouraged. I tried again, this time just focusing on writing a Business Plan. The lengthy process discouraged me. Now, I'm trying again but every time I think about getting clients I get nervous and say "I'll do this later."

I really, really want to be a VA, and successful. I just don't know where to start. There are so many doors that I can put my foot in but I don't know which one to enter.

Please Help! <== I'm not that angry though lol - just frustrated

Chaley

Chaley, have you downloaded the free getting started as a virtual assistant packet? Use the search feature in the main menu to track it down, that's a great place to start.

It sounds like you sort of got things started but gave up without any really consistent marketing efforts. Having a website and brochures is a really good start but you have to define your target market and then actively find and network with those people, get in touch with them, etc.

The bare minimum for marketing should be one hour a day - but really, if you anticipate 4 or 5 billable hours a day then you should be spending that much every weekday on developing your business, marketing your services, and getting in touch with your ideal clients in some way (at least until you have a full practice - but even then you should still be marketing every day at least an hour). It doesn't have to be the same marketing efforts every single day, in fact, you really should try a variety of methods for best results. Check out the Promoting Your Virtual Assistance Business section of the forums - it's full of thousands of ways you can market your business as well as thoughts and ideas on networking locally and online.

If you really want it, you can absolutely make this happen - just don't give up and don't get mired down in things like a business plan. Your business plan doesn't have to be a lengthy, formal document (unless you're approaching a bank for financing) so let your plan be more organic for now, use a notebook to keep your ideas and policies organized.

There is no need to get it all perfect right out the door - some of this is bound to be a learning experience, so don't be too hard on yourself or expect too much right away.

Good luck!

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Hi, Chaley. I just want to let you know that you have come to the right place. You will find so much support on this forum. You are going to read so many, SO MANY encouraging stories, and you are going to learn so much reading through all the topics. Starting up can be so overwhelming. Believe me, I know. Getting your business plan written -- and a real simple one is just fine -- is so important. It will really put in writing what you expect of yourself and it just really makes things REAL! Start out with focusing on offering skills you know you will be great at -- you can always expand as time goes on. Stay active here on this forum. Attend some business association events in your area. Look into having another VA mentor you. Right here on this forum, there are groups you can join, such VA groups specific to your locale. I know how hard it is to get started -- I'm still there! But remember, the biggest failure in life is not to try! It's going to be a new year soon. Make it YOUR year!!

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Patty

Hi Chaley,

I launched my business last February. The master to-do list was my business plan. I printed it out just over a year ago. Today it is marked up, highlighted & has a few tea stains on it. It is a visual map of my VA journey. Remember, journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. Good luck!

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Lezly Harrison
Laserdog Productions - Code that Doesn't Bite

Thank you all so much. It was very inspiring and I feel like I'm more ready than ever. You gave great advice and I am definitely going to follow it. Thank You For The Support!!!!!

I also want to say thanks! I also needed some tips....this forum is great and with so much information that I got somewhat overwhelmed.
Now, I feel there is a direction to go and a beginning in sight!
Thanks!
Dani

Chaley,

As a brand new VA I can certainly sympathize with what you are feeling. As the others have stated before me, utilize the forums (I think I have went through all the posts so far!), and definately download the packet and the master to-do list. Very valuable tools.

You certainly have the right attitude, and I am sure that you will be successful! keep up the great work , you will reach your goals.

And remember "A man is not finished when he is defeated. He is finished when he quits." -- Richard Nixon

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Kimberly, CEO / Administrator Streamatic Solutions
Streamlining tasks and optimizing productivity

Thank you Kimberly and that is a GREAT quote you've included!

Originally Posted by dognose

Hi Chaley, I launched my business last February. The master to-do list was my business plan. I printed it out just over a year ago. Today it is marked up, highlighted & has a few tea stains on it. It is a visual map of my VA journey. Remember, journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. Good luck!

Absolutely brilliant! Just what I needed to boost me along the way.

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www.a4-admin.co.uk
Helping you make the most out of your day!

You are not alone. I too have been toying with this for a while and I am just making the final moves to make it happen. I can't say I am not 'worried' but I am confident that things will work out. Several people knew I was looking at working for myself while I was in my last (3) professional position(s) so now it's time to step out. I'm walking this path with you, as well as many others, don't get discouraged be of good cheer and know we are here to help support, guide, and assist one another. At least that's what I have gotten from the forums since I joined.

Thank you Tess, for creating it!