Virtual Assistant Forums | Work from Home

Kathya · #1 (**permalink**) 08-24-2009

I've come across some very strange websites that solicit for VAs but was amazed at the type of work and quality they required...some of the positions turned out to be approximately $1/hour! In addition to that, one website I encountered had registered users 'bidding' on the jobs!

I was curious to see if anyone knew of some legitimate websites that showcased available VA postings or if most of you have had new clients approach you via word of mouth?

I'm just starting out trying to market myself and wondered how many of you got your first client, how you attract new ones and most curiously, how do you keep the current ones coming back? Any referral stories?

Thanks for sharing any inspiration my way and continued success to you all!

cbranch · #2 (**permalink**) 08-24-2009

HI Kathya,

Well I sort of fell into virtually assisting. I have been unhappy for many yours in some of my career moves and although I have moved up professionally I was most happy as an administrative assistant.

My dear friend is a counselor and was really having a difficult time getting organized and getting her business off the ground. So, I presented her with the idea of using my skills and she gladly accepted. I understood her financial situations and volunteered my services for 90 days. I contracted with her on 8/1/09 and she is my first paying client.

Just thought I would share how I gained a client. Sometimes there are sacrifices that have to be made in the beginning but I would certainly do it again. The only down side I would say to working with a friend is making sure you have the ability to separate the friendship from the business which can be difficult to do at time. But it seems to be working out for us great....Thank God.

Also I plan to use facebook as well. I am not officially launching my business until 10/1/09 but when I do I am going to use ALL the social/professional networking sites.

Hope this helps!
Cathryn

Kathya · #3 (**permalink**) 08-24-2009

Thanks, Catheryn! I've done the same with two clients and did some work for them as favors in exchange for testimonials which are posted on my site. It was critical that I develop those two relationships to show that I'm quite capable of doing very complicated forms and such.

I appreciate the quick response! Thanks so much! Good luck to you!

Office Goddess · #4 (**permalink**) 08-24-2009

The majority of my clients have been word of mouth. I was just contacted by 2 new ones today, though, one of whom did a Google search (because her VA suggested it! Yay!) and the other one who had picked up one of my business cards "a while ago, but I'm not sure when or where I got it."

I don't go to the job posting sites. I market through networking groups (www.meetup.com) postcard mailings, word of mouth, etc.

Kathya · #5 (**permalink**) 08-24-2009

Originally Posted by Office Goddess

The majority of my clients have been word of mouth. I was just contacted by 2 new ones today, though, one of whom did a Google search (because her VA suggested it! Yay!) and the other one who had picked up one of my business cards "a while ago, but I'm not sure when or where I got it."

I don't go to the job posting sites. I market through networking groups (www.meetup.com) postcard mailings, word of mouth, etc.

You're the best, Lily! As usual...of course!

Thanks!

Total Resource Connection · #6 (**permalink**) 08-26-2009

Originally Posted by Office Goddess

The majority of my clients have been word of mouth. I was just contacted by 2 new ones today, though, one of whom did a Google search (because her VA suggested it! Yay!) and the other one who had picked up one of my business cards "a while ago, but I'm not sure when or where I got it."

I don't go to the job posting sites. I market through networking groups (www.meetup.com) postcard mailings, word of mouth, etc.

How do you market through meetup.com? Do you go to various meetings, or just contact them?

My clients have primarily been word of mouth, clients of clients and former employers.

JKVirtualOffice · #7 (**permalink**) 08-26-2009

I've mostly gotten my clients from referrals, word of mouth or because they found my website. I also made sure I posted my website and profile on some of the major VA directory sites (including the awesome forums!) I've been pleasantly surprised by the number of people that have found me via my website or via the search engines.

My first retainer client found me from my website. Several others followed from my interactions and participation using Twitter. As far as keeping clients, I've just been fortunate that most of my clients have stuck with me. I think I can attribute some of that to consciously choosing clients who I thought I would work well with.

Two clients had to drop out for awhile b/c their economic situation had changed and they couldn't afford me but both have promised to come back once they can afford it again.

Just keep working on the marketing and they will come! You've done a great job on your website and you have great energy, so it won't be long before you'll have several clients.

kazvan · #8 (**permalink**) 08-26-2009

My clients have been through people I know from my current job. But I know word of mouth works best. I am still hoping my website comes through for me too. I am still busy working on that. But the end of the day Good Customer Service - will always be a true winner.

Karen

leedrozak · #9 (**permalink**) 08-26-2009

My first client came from a referral. I now find most clients through referrals but also networking including attending workshops and seminars. I have a couple who have found me through my website, mostly by way of other VA directories I am on. I also found a few prospects from the group I volunteer with.

Like the others have said, market and they will come. It was may take a while or may not, good luck to you.

PamH53 · #10 (**permalink**) 08-26-2009

I am currently working with a client that posted an RFP here on VAF. I check here a couple of times a week and respond to positions that I feel I am qualified for and that I would enjoy. This particular client owns a franchise and if the project goes well, the other franchise owners will do similar projects, so this could be a great way for me to get referrals.