I currently work for a federal agency. I plan to retire in the next couple of years. In the meantime, because I know I will go crazy if I don’t have something besides cleaning the house to keep me busy, I want to do what I’ve wanted to do for years–operate my own office support company. So, that’s where the virtual assistance field comes into mind.
Several years ago, I thought of operating a VA business. But my regular job changed and I just didn’t have the energy to even think about anything else. I did have a web page up, but I wasn’t happy with it. Plus, while I had lookers, I never got a client. I wasn’t able to network locally, and to be honest, I don’t want local clients–even today.
I think, in researching the local market, there may not be room for an office support business. The companies that are offering the services I’d like to offer, namely word processing and transcription, have been in business for at least 20 plus years. I’ve looked into joining the chamber of commerce, but their fees are quite high. I would probably have to do a lot of education, and I haven’t gotten my spiel down pat yet. I can’t seem to get it to 30 seconds–mostly because sometimes I wander the world.
When my children were little, I typed many student papers; but I wasn’t able to maintain a strong customer base from one year to the next. I had one college student from his freshman to his senior year. Unfortunately, it was like I was starting fresh every year. I never had enough clients to turn the business from part time to full time, which is what I wanted to do.
All I ever wanted to do was be the best da** secretary in the world. I love to shuffle papers. I love to type. I love to play with software. I love to design brochures, flyers, business cards, gift certificates, etc. I don’t mind some customer contact, but I don’t want to rely on customer service at the level of a retail business. I love to have the confidence of my boss who will just let me do the job. I was fortunate for many years to have exactly that. Then life got in the way.
I have enjoyed reading posts today, and I have been very impressed with the comments and helpful attitudes. I would have loved to have found this site many years ago. Guidance from knowledgeable sources is so helpful.
I will be working at my business part time for now with the goal of being full time in the foreseeable future!
Anne Camien
ALC Office Support LLC
www.alcoffice.com
Hello from the Beautiful State of Kansas
Your worries about finding clients need not stop you from pursuing your goals. With the advice on this forum regarding everything from how to set your rates to how to network effectively, I am sure you will be able to build a client base that keeps you busy.
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