Hi All

This is another newbie here. My name is Bev from office help 2 you. Been trying to get started since beginning of July and having a few ups and downs. Just when I'm think I'm getting there, someone pulls the plug!!

Had a new client yesterday who let me down 25 mins before our first meeting, when I was just minutes from their door. Frustrating but I guess I just have to keep plugging away.

Would be good to hear your success stories to give all us newbies some hope lol!

Bev x

Welcome! I started The Virtual Office Goddess 4 years ago (yipes!), went on hiatus after 2 years (long story ) and am 'back in the saddle' now. I had a hard time mentally at first dealing with rejection until I realized it wasn't personal.

My best advice is two-fold: networking and confidence! For the first 6 months after I stopped marketing and went on hiatus I was STILL turning down potential clients 2-3x monthly and then it went to 1-2 every couple of months that i had to refer elsewhere. Keep your head up, focus on networking and proving your expertise and you'll be fine!

I have a VA friend who 6 months ago was considering looking for a part-time job. She prayed, networked, marketed, and now she is subcontracting work out 'cuz she's so busy! The work is out there and clients need you. You're gonna be great.

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

Hi Bev, be encouraged and do keep believing in yourself, knowing that you will find your ideal clients soon. Lily gave you some sound words of advice. Keep trying. Wishing you success.

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Genovia
Genwil Business Solutions

Keep Positive Bev, starting a business is complex and it takes a while to get everything going!

Chin up Bev! I am launching next week and have had multiple glitches along the way, but I am very determined to make my business a success that fits my life. I've given my self a lot of pep talks and shed some tears along the way, but the support I have found from my husband, friends and this forum have really helped. Don't be shy about reaching out for help and support as it will definitely make a difference!

Good luck and everything will come together!

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Margaret
Helping You Build Your Empire

Oh thank you all so much for the words of support. Definitely some sound advice. I am trying to do the networking thing and have made some good contacts so far.

I also have to confess that I did my client that let me down a dis-service. I'm really not good at the 'selling' thing but know that I just have to do it. So I decided to call in and see the client yesterday. She had a genuine reason for calling our meeting off and was really glad to see me. I now have a new client and am starting work for her today - yay!! I think it was good karma by being brave enough to take the bull by the horns and go in to see her.

The success stories are really good to hear. I too have applied for a couple of permanent part-time jobs and am waiting to hear the outcome. My thinking was that I can start this business on a part-time basis at first as I currently have virtually no income

Bev

Congrats on your first client.

I've been lucky to have a Chamber in town that has helped me incredibly. She refers me to many of the members and anyone who asks about services that I offer. I have 4 clients I do work for at this time locally. I'm enjoying my freedom from the regular 9-5 job.

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Terri Williams, Assisting the small business owner
www.terripwilliams.com

Hello!
This is a great place to learn about becoming a VA. Read through the forum and ask questions. I took notes while reading. Everyone is so wonderful about sharing their knowledge.

To your virtual success!