Virtual Assistant Forums | Work from Home

JLRobinson · #1 (**permalink**) 11-12-2009

I am looking to branch out into other niches and would like to hear about others who have branched out and how that worked for them.

I started my business due to a surprise layoff from my position as office manager for an architecture firm. I figured that would be a good niche to go for since there were probably others who had to lay off anyone who wasn't designing drawings and 3d models. However, the industry has continued to constrict and that idea seems a little naive now.

Thanks in advance for all good advice and good stories!

--JLR

Colin D · #2 (**permalink**) 11-17-2009

Hello JLR

Having many years background in technical writing, my first virtual contract was based on this (writing, editing, testing software). Then as time went on, and keeping my "eye on the ball" I branched into e-cover design, then book design, and lately I've added book cover design.

I will also be offering full document design services when I get around to officially launching my VA business.

Best regards.
Colin

Maven · #3 (**permalink**) 11-17-2009

My background includes mostly Information Technology such as A+ and Network Plus. So in addition to my Administrative Services I also do a fair amount of IT work. I have found this little area helps when working with clients because it saves them the time and extra cost involved when contacting IT.

JLRobinson · #4 (**permalink**) 11-18-2009

Thanks for the replies so far... It's nice to hear success stories of branching out. Helps me feel hopeful.

Offsite Office Professionals · #5 (**permalink**) 11-18-2009

Hi JL, After being in business for over a year, I now offer office and marketing support, genealogical research and family histories, author's assistance, and business coaching. My website is being rebuilt to reflect these niches. Once the new website is published, I plan to reposition my business into a multi-va practice and add associates.

Barb812 · #6 (**permalink**) 12-03-2009

I went from Marketing Coach where I tried and coaxed clients to do all the tasks needed to market their business to a VA for marketing now I getit done for them!

KC Virtual Solutions · #7 (**permalink**) 12-04-2009

I started out offering everything, I had a wide range of skills and hoped that my niche would find me ;o)

I'm now spending most of my time managing websites and affiliates, and social media marketing...and most recently design.

So completely different from the 'general admin' I offered when I first started out.

bschafer · #8 (**permalink**) 12-04-2009

As a new VA and new to this forum, it is so encouraging to read all of your stories of "finding your niche" or "your niche finding you". Proof that this business is successful and in demand!

Bonnie
Morgantown, WV

Marian · #9 (**permalink**) 12-06-2009

I started out with an open idea as well...offering whatever I could. In many ways, I still do that if I'm asked, but I've found that people were coming to me for documents and instructional materials more than anything else.

This includes things such as forms, correspondence, reports, contracts, proposals, research, glossaries, training materials, handbooks, product instructions, etc. In other words, I'm really good at telling people what to do and where to go.

My husband likes to tell people I'm fantastic at writing the stuff nobody ever bothers to read.

VirtualShannon · #10 (**permalink**) 12-09-2009

My Niche seems to change with every new and exciting client. I have been working for Heating and Air Conditioning businesses for 20 years. I picked up a Real Estate client 3 years ago and that has been a wonderful learning experience. I have 3 that I help right now. I also work for a graphic designer, construction company, and a tree/Landscape company. I really enjoy all the new types of clients because each one teaches me something new that I can use to help others.