Hello there!

Okay so I think I somewhat worked backwards in starting my virtual assistant business on a part-time basis, but whatever makes me and the clients happy, right?

So I've been dealing with about a handful of clients (5 or 6) who I have worked with for the past four months. When is the "right" time to ask for a reference and/or testimonial from the client?

The only reason I ask this is because I started a blog and wanted to put some sort of testimonial mark on it or even on my business website. Is there a form to use or you simply ask via email?

Do you wait a few days, months, a year, etc. before asking? Let me know what you think. Looking forward to your response and have a wonderful Tuesday!!

__________________
Aspiring VA - Jean
http://network.govirtualwithjean.com

Jean - Personally, I'd ask for a reference or testimonial immediately after completing work for a client if the situation's right. Why not? They can testify as to your ability to do the specific job required, and that means as much as anything as a testimonial on your site. IMHO. You have to be confident that the client likes your work and is open to saying so, but if you've done a good job, they're likely to be happy to help you.

__________________
Mary H. Ruth/Virtual Writing & Communications
http://www.writingVA.com

I also would ask as soon as you have completed some work for them.

__________________
Suzanne
ASC

I agree with the others; now that you've got some work under your belt, definitely ask for references. Especially target the clients who are already saying good things about your work to you; in fact, if you have any notes of thanks or positive words in written form, through email or something, maybe you could polish it up a bit and ask them if you could use it as a testimonial on your blog/website. If you don't have anything useful, you could just be honest and tell them that you're looking to promote yourself and grow your business, then ask if they'd be willing to provide a testimonial for your blog/site. I've heard of some VAs providing a template of sorts to help make the process super easy for clients. Could be as simple as giving them a few questions to answer, like, "What is your favorite part about working with me as your VA?" Or, "What would you say are my best skills or abilities?" Something to guide them along the way.

I'm sure they'll be happy to give you a great reference!

__________________
Tammi Metzler ~ The Write Associate
Free call: "How to Write Email Subject Lines That Grab Attention!"

Hello all!

What a great response! Since I am just now getting into the more social networking and "marketing" myself out there - this is when I thought of obtaining references and such.

I think I will create some sort of form with those questions and examples everyone has provided and send it via email. Thanks again for the information! You guys are great!

__________________
Aspiring VA - Jean
http://network.govirtualwithjean.com