Hey everyone!,

I just began working on my website and business cards. I have not launched either yet, because I am not sure I'm ready.

I decided to become a VA because my co-op (internship) at my University was basically a VA and more. I understand how to do social media marketing, email campaigns, keyword tools, and ppc ads.

I enjoyed this job a lot and I think I can do it also while in class because I am never too busy during the schoolyear and would like it better than a low paying work-study job.

Do you have any tips on how to start out or where to spread the word, particularly free or on a budget? I will have postcards, business cards, etc.

Also, here is my website: http://jeaniusweb.com

Any advice would be GREATLY appreciated!

Thanks,
Jeana

Tell EVERYONE you know what you are doing and pass out biz cards like candy - you never know where your first client is coming from.

Check out networking groups, Chamber of Commerce, etc. Even the ones that have fees sometimes have lower "Student" fees, so you might check those out to see if you're eligible.

If you have a business blog, write about current issues in the industry, get those blog posts out there on Facebook, Twitter, however you can.

Make sure you list you site with the search engines and that you're using appropriate keywords.

Just off the top of my head, those are some of the things I'm going to be doing once I officially "launch."

All of which is great advice! Join both local and virtual networking groups (check out meetup.com for local options). You can create your own postcards and biz cards on the computer, print them and have them cut at a local office supply inexpensively. Search VAF for postcard and mailing list suggestions. For that matter, spend a lot of time up-front on VAF, take notes, and you will find most of what you need to succeed right here!

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

Great site Jeana. Keep moving & be encouraged. Your excitement will generate clients.

Hi Jeana, I am just getting started also. I would suggest talking about your business to everyone, especially your family. Test the water out on them (for a discounted price of course) but they are a great source of refferals and recommendations.

Jeana,

I would consider making use of your existing work history at the university. You can either use them for a testimonial or more work.

Always be looking to enhance and grow your existing network also. Can anyone be making the referral for you.

At the beginning, it's all about being determined to be actively engaged in online communities on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Get yourself really well known with the key influencers.

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