Determining Your Services

What kinds of services do virtual assistants offer? Discuss the possibilities here.

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Old 10-02-2008
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Default Offering Service Packages
Hello,

I am considering an idea of offering service packages, different from retainer or hourly.

For instance:

2-page Newsletter Design $xx
Postcard Design $xx

My thought is that it would allow a business that is apprehensive about using a VA or looking for a non-commitment situation to get a taste.

What is your opinion? Do you have any experiences with this type of offer?

Thanks,

Wendy
Business name coming soon...
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Old 10-02-2008
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Default Re: Offering Service Packages
I don't have any experience with this, but I do think it's a good idea. That way they don't have to worry about a per hour rate and how long something will take, it's all worked out for them.
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Old 10-02-2008
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Default Re: Offering Service Packages
I like it. I was just talking with a colleague about offering service packages to new clients. I like the idea of having a base package then upgrades available. My only caution would be to clearly define what a package is. For example when you say 2-page newsletter does that mean you'll find, write, layout, and distribute the newsletter or does that mean you'll layout and distribute what they give you.
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Old 10-02-2008
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Default Re: Offering Service Packages
I think that's a wonderful idea. I've done it before to help make things easier on everyone involved. It's especially useful with particular projects, like the newsletter design you mentioned.
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Old 10-02-2008
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Default Re: Offering Service Packages
Here's how I've been doing it: tell the prospective client a maximum number of hours you expect the project will require. Then, when the job's done, charge them according to actual hours worked, up to your stated max. You may end up billing less than the actual number of hours worked; or, if it's the other way around, and you've come in under budget, you have the option of billing them less than they expect, which could help in long-term PR.

Of course, it's fine to just price the project as a package, but with anything that involves design so many factors are subjective that things can get dicey pretty quick. Even with my method as described, the key is not to underprice from the start; ask for more than you really think you'll need, because the range of possible client maintenance is infinite.
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Old 02-25-2009
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Default Re: Offering Service Packages
This is an interesting idea. Although, it is possible to spend way more time than anticipated on these types of projects. Especially if the customer doesn't like the end product and wants you to make changes.
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Old 02-25-2009
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Default Re: Offering Service Packages
I like your idea. I'm thinking in order to do this with little hassle, you could already have a set template, or a few, that the client can choose from. That way the client knows up front what the layout looks like & what their options are & you're not pulling your hair out with 100 drafts. "Here's what you choose from & here's how much it costs." In terms of distribution, I think that might be a separate service.

Maybe there could be different deals - a price just for the template, which they can purchase & edit themselves - then another price for the same package that includes your time spent finishing it for them. Just some thoughts...
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Old 02-27-2009
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Default Re: Offering Service Packages
This sounds like a great idea. Can you let us know how it goes? Lots of luck to you.

Marlene
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Old 04-14-2009
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Default Re: Offering Service Packages
I am currently in the process of trying to create my own service packages and bundles. It can be a bit time consuming but I think it will be well worth the effort in the end.
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Old 04-14-2009
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Default Re: Offering Service Packages
I have done this several times. Done a flat project rate. It has worked really well for those that just need the once in a while help. My repeat client on this has an in house assistant- but is not proficent on doing certain things- so she hires me to do that project.
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