Hi All,
I am still trying to land that first client and recently sent a direct mail piece to 300 small business in my area. With only 1 call so far.

I am wondering what type of business are your clients based. I know some VAs specialize in legal, real estate, etc. but for the rest of us what types of business/industries are most likely to utilize a VA (Insurance Agents, Authors, General Contracters Etc.)?

I am just trying to see if there is a trend and then I can use that to decide where to focus future advertising/networking.

Thsnks so much!!!

I can't really answer the question you asked, but was wondering if you had considered scheduling with local businesses to give a face to face presentation? I have been giving this alot of thought, and in essence we are not only VAs, but also salespeople. In real estate, the method I followed, we used scripts. By using and memorizing the scripts and objection handlers we had a better chance of listing homes. I am working on developing this same strategy for my VA business. I think if I go in with a strong presentation and the ability to handle the objections they may have then I have a better chance of getting the contract signed. In essence, I would be prospecting for new clients, giving a "listing" presentation, and closing the sale. It's just a thought.
Serita

What is your target market? Have you designated who your ideal client would be? My clients some from all industries since I am a generalist but I target solo first year of business companies.

I agree with the face to face meets or even a simple call to ask for a meet with them. Have you tried your local chamber or another professional group in your area. I found that mailings are not effective in my area because people want to know you so that may be wherein the problem lies.

Of the 300, try to narrow down to your ideal client and either do a follow-up call or go for a visit to their business. You can also try volunteering in your area as a way to expand your network.

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Lee Drozak
My Office Assistant

Hi:

Hopefully that one call turns into a potential client. That would help considerably.

I love the recommendation to consider who would best be your potential client and doing a follow-up. Even a follow-up postcard might entice them to contact you. Perhaps a how you can help their business survive and thrive in 2010. I'd send it after the holidays though. I think so many get so much mailings now that it can get lost, unless you use a holiday theme.

There seem to be a lot of business to business networking events this month. You might want to consider some of those. Many have holiday get togethers that are free.

Hope this helps! Good luck!

Diana Ennen
Virtual Word Publishing

Thanks for this useful post - also wondering which companies to target and how - now I hve some more work to do

I am just starting out myself but I think that one of the first things you have to do is examine your skills. What can you do well. What can you sell. Then you need to identify all the successful businesses that can make use of that skill. They are your market.