I get a lot of inquiries from new and aspiring VAs asking about how they can get VA work, or if I know of any companies that will hire them and just give them VA work. My question for them is what are they doing to market themselves and their business?
I know a lot of VAs starting out have little to no budget for marketing their services to start with. I sure didn't. So I'm in a brainstorming mood. So I'm wanted to start a list of different low-cost or no-cost ideas for marketing on a budget. So here's a start:
1. Join your local Chamber of Commerce - very affordable depending on where you are located
2. Network with your target market - Either online social networking, or in person events, network directly with the people you want to work with.
3. Network with those in your industry - Hanging out here on VAForums is a great start!
4. Business cards - Leave them everywhere you go. Leave one at your gym, stores, doctor's offices, dry cleaners, restaurants, etc.
5. Write Press Releases -Submit locally or online to let everyone know you are in business, plus any news and announcements
6. Write Articles - Write and submit articles on what you know to show you're an expert in your field
7. Word of Mouth - Make sure every friend and family member knows about your business and what you do
8. Offer a Discount or Special Deal - Make a coupon and offer a discount of 1 or 2 free hours to new clients (do not offer TOO much for free)
9. Volunteer in Your Community - You have the opportunity to demonstrate your skills, or meet potential clients working side by side with you
10. Online Social Networking - Many of the big social networking platforms are totally free. Get active and get known online.
11. Start a Blog - Start a simple blog using one of the platforms are either free or cost little. Write about what you know, and write for your target market.
12. Speak at Meetings or Events - Offer to speak at a sales meeting or networking meetings about Virtual Assistants, or an area of expertise that would be of use to them
13. Online Business Directories - Submit your business information to the many free online business directories
14. Online Classified Ads - Submit ads to Craig's List of other classified sites to promote your business (you can dress up your ads with html with a free account at
www.vFlyer.com)
15. Ask Current Clients For Referrals or Testimonials - Word of mouth from the people that you have worked with carries a lot of weight with new prospects.
16. Tap Your Former Employers - Your former employer might be a great resource for new clients and prospects. Someone there may need you, or they know someone who does.
This is all that I can think of off the top. Feel free to contribute more low or no cost marketing ideas.
Ideas For Marketing on a Budget
I'm thinking, but I'm also bookmarking this! 
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