I have started to market myself and get my first real virtual client (Currently I travel to my clients house 1 day a week, but she is family). I have replied to some RFPs and have found a few listings on Craigslist that I would like to reply to.

As far as RFPs go, I have responded to ones looking for an all around VA. I have given a brief background, some general information on my services, and my fee. It basically was a 2-3 paragraph email. Should I give more extensive information if someone is looking for a all around VA, or should it just be general information and specifics can be discussed if the client is interested?

For job listings, I am unsure what to send. I have a client information PDF that I created, but don't want to send someone an unsolicited PDF. I also have my resume that I would use if I were looking for a job, but that isn't really what I feel I should be sending. Any insight on this would be great. Thanks for all your help!

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Kellie Stotsky
The Essential Virtual Assistant
www.theessentialva.com

Hi Kellie, congrats on being ready to branch out!

When you respond to RFPs you should always first and foremost send the information exactly as the potential client has asked for it. I know this seems really obvious but I cannot tell you how many RFP replies I have seen that are prepared by service providers who clearly do not read the client's request. And if they can't follow directions from an RFP then what kind of partnership could the client possibly hope for. If there's a request for a specific type or amount of information follow it to the letter. If they ask for a certain subject line, provide it. The little details requested in an RFP are often a test to weed out those who aren't really paying attention.

As to the job listings - again, good to check for any specific requests. It's also a nice touch if you can personalize the reply a bit. If there is info about the company you're replying to do a little research and let them know you took the time to be informed before replying by mentioning some specific thing about their industry, their business or their website (based on whatever you can see).

There is also a really good thread started on RFPs that might help as well - check them out here

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Kellie~

As Tess mentioned, it is important to provide the requested information and to personalize the response. Let them know how you are uniquely suited to handle their needs and tell them why you are interested in them/their business/the work they do. You want to make your response thorough enough to cover the areas they need help with, but keep it short enough to pique their interest and make them want to call you for a consultation.

Also, draft your response, spell & grammar check, then set it aside for a bit while you do something else. Then come back to it with fresh eyes and read it again before submitting it.

Resumes are for job seekers, not business owners. If you have a website, you can direct them to your URL for additional information about how you work with clients, client testimonials, etc. If you don't have a website, I strongly encourage you to get one - it is a means of marketing your business and adds credibility to someone working in the virtual world.

Finally, rates should be discussed during your consultation with a prospect after you have shared with them the value of working with you and after you have determined that they are someone you would really like to work with - without that conversation, it is just a meaningless number to them.

Warmly,

Lorri