Hello to all.

My name is Tahneesha from Indianapolis, IN. I have not completely adapted to saying that yet because I recently moved here from Florida. Florida was my home for the last 10 years.

I just started my own VA business. By nature I am an organizer and researcher. I love information...the more the better. But recently I have been a little "research happy" and overloaded myself with information. Which leads me to my question. I would like your thoughts on becoming a Certified Virtual Assistant? Is it necessary? Should I do it now or later? I welcome all input.

My goal as a member of this forum is to gain more information from those that has had success in VA field (mentor) and maybe in the future I can help others do the same.

Thanks for your time.

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Tahneesha
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Hello Tahneesha and Welcome to the forum -

Glad your here! You have definitely come to the right place to gain VA Information. This site is loaded with it, along with very experienced and knowledgeable Virtual Assistants.

As far as becoming certified, I dont have much information for you on that. I'm sure other members will jump and help you out with that question. I'm not certified, but I think that is all up to the person(VA) and would suggest you do your own due diligence. But, like I said I'm sure others will pitch in and give you some feedback.


Once Again,

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Kena~
Everyone smiles in the same language

Hello Kena,

Thanks for the warm welcome. So far I am very impressed with this site. I really enjoy these open forums. I never actually joined one before but I have viewed a few forums as a nonmember/unsubscriber.

I just wanted to know the best piece of information/advice you have received from this site to help grow your business?

Thanks.

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Tahneesha
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Oh, there is no "ONE" piece of advice I've learned or gained from this site. That list would take days maybe even weeks lol. This forum is such an invaluable resource to me. As I set here thinking of a specific piece of information, I think it would be - Dont sell yourself short, thinking that a low hourly rate will get you the signed contract with a potential client when you know your time and effort is worth more. Another thing I always think about is just be yourself! One thing I've learned from clients, is dont lose your sense of humor - still keep your business suit on a portray a professional image while having fun with your VA'ing career.


that was a hard question lol - I have learned way too much here to pick just one thing. hope that helps you some

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Kena~
Everyone smiles in the same language

Thanks Kena for the reply and the laugh...was not meant to be a hard question. I am very optimistic and eager and I have not yet gotten my feet wet. There is a wealth of information on here. I agree with keeping a sense of humor. I look forward to having some more chats and laughs with you.

Thanks again.

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Tahneesha
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Have you read the Getting Started thread? It's a great one!

Maybe that will help get your feet wet lol

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Kena~
Everyone smiles in the same language

Welcome Tahneesha~

I think certification is a personal choice, as in any industry. I'm an AssistU grad and knew that I wanted to get my certification with them as soon as I started the training program 4 years ago. Certification was important to me because it enables me to apply to be an AssistU trainer, helping other administrative professionals realize their dreams of becoming a VA, and for some potential clients, it lends credibility. Just know that not all certifications are created equal - keep doing your research. :-)

Warmly,

Lorri

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Lorri Morin, CPVA
www.virtualsynergy.net

Hi Tahneesha!

Regarding certification, I did not personally choose it for myself. My first clients were previous employers and referrals, so I had the trust factor going and they were familiar with the quality of my work already. As for new clients, I found that businesses in my community were not even familiar with what a VA is or does, so a certification did not mean much to them.

BUT...there's probably as many opinions as there are people here! Does anyone else feel strongly about or endorse a particular certification program?

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