I was asked the other day "what am I selling". I found if a little difficult to explain to an older gentleman what a "virtual assistant" was. I was sure i explained it well but still had a look of confusion from him. Does anyone have a good "elevator speech" that i can also use when explaining my business? I'm just looking for a way that i can get all to understand what i do.

Bobbi
The Distinguished Assistant

Bobbi,

Here's some tips you may find useful when defining your elevator pitch

1) Decide what your U.S.P (Unique Selling Point) is - What makes you a unique virtual assistant? Is it your attention to detail, speed of delivery etc etc..

2) Create a compelling 30 second sound-bite which summarizes your services - This will be your basic elevator pitch to others. Mix in your U.S.P in this.

I personally try not to focus on the web (virtual) side of my job. I simply reduce it to a basic level, explaining what I do and what type of businesses I work with.

3) Don't worry if people don't get what you do straight away - Instead, send them a link to your website and allow them to explore more about your services.

For some the idea of someone who works remotely is a very scary concept, there is no way that client will be able to keep a watchful eye on your work rate.

Reassure them that you are a credible and reliable professional who produces results.

Not all small business owners will accept this as a good idea, that's OK. Not everyone is your customer.

I hope this is of some help to you Bobbi.

__________________
"Making The Human Connection Count"
http://www.joshchandlerva.com

Bobbi, are you doing now for clients, what you used to do in a job? I am so I just explain it to people this way:

"You know how a corporate secretary works in an office separate to her boss, communicating via intercom or chatting through the doorway?" People usually say 'yes'. I then say, "well, I operate in a similar manner but it's just like the boss has gone overseas or interstate and now we communicate by phone, email and fax. I still do the work for them but we're operating virtually".

People usually get it then - sometimes they ask for specifics about how they get the typing to me but most seem to happily accept my explanation.

Bobbi,

Here is a blog post I penned some time ago which explains how I let people know what is a virtual assistant.

Virtual Assistants Have an Identity Problem

Hope that helps.

Janine

__________________
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After reading all the good tips, I still have a hard time with my elevator pitch, especially in person. If I can write it, that's better for me, but to do it in person is what gets me every time. I do not feel like I know how to sell myself/services well at all and isn't this an important aspect of my business?

It's the old story 'practice makes perfect'. The more times you tell it the better you get at it. And remember that the people you're speaking to are only hearing it for the first time, so they won't know if you've stuffed it up or not. Don't be hard on yourself - relax and enjoy the moment. Learn about other people and always turn the focus back on them - they'll think you're a wonderful listener too!

Thanks, Kathie. I don't know if practice does make perfect when it comes to speeches and me!? (No matter how short the speeches are!) But I do appreciate your comments and encouragement to keep at it.

Yes, keep at it. It will become a habit. You have to stop thinking of it as a 'speech'. How would you tell your friends about what you do?

The biggest tip I can offer is don't talk about processes.. name the results your provide people. If they are interested in the results, they will listen long enough to understand what you do by hearing what a VA is. Ie "I am a VA. I work with soloprenuers that wear every hat in their business to fire themselves at the jobs they suck at so they have more time with their family, can make more money, and enjoy their job again" or something of the like.

Elevator speeches don't work for me. I created one, but always felt stupid using it. I now have a 1-liner to 'what do you do?"

"I handle the necessary bookkeeping and admin tasks for entrepreneurs so they can focus on growing their business instead of running it."

This leads to either "Oh. Ok." or "Tell me more" at which time I explain that I work virtually, blah-blah-blah.

__________________
Lily Chambers, The Virtual Office Goddess, LLC
Author "How to Do Your Own Small Business Bookkeeping"