Hello Everyone:

A bit about me: I'm a recent graduate with experience in the legal and accounting industry. Recent graduates are having a hard time finding jobs so I thought I would launch my own business. I'm really excited about it......can't you tell?

While researching on the internet, I found this really great forum. It answered a lot of the questions I had. I'm working on my website, and thanks to the sample forms packet I received from this forum...I'm working on those as well...along with a brochure, flyer, portfolio...(Maybe I'm doing too much. I don't know.)

I'm leaning towards the legal secretary/services area even though I will provide other services.

I have an idea of how I will market my services...bar association, the local legal newspaper, other attorneys I know, the daily newspaper, networking, etc.

The only trouble I seem to have at the moment is what to charge for my services. How do I calculate my education and experience? I'm between a rock and a hard place.

I look forward to hearing from you all.

Shakeena

Hello Shakeena,
Welcome to the forum and good luck with your new endeavours. I think everyone should start their own business. I beleive that this is the only way to have job security. Good luck with your business and once again welcome.

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Charlene Bey
All Bey Bookkeeping, LLC

Hi Shakeena,

Welcome and congratulations on the launch of your own business! I know you'll find all you need here.

I wish you all the best.

Traci

Hi Shakeena, welcome to the community
Your question about pricing is such a common one - what I usually suggest is to check out the websites of other VAs who offer the same or similar services to get a feel for what they are charging.

There is also a great Freelance Hourly Rate Calculator that's very popular on the boards, that can help you determine what you should be charging in order to make a livable profit.

I hope that helps you get started! Wishing you much success in your new business venture

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You have found a great resource here at VAF. Be sure and download the free getting started as a VA packet and I also recommend you check out TVE Magazine.

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

Thanks, it looks like a great resource. I'll definitely check it out.

Welcome & Happy Graduation, Shakeena!

You are so right about graduates having a time looking for jobs right now. You are taking a great step in starting your own business! As I'm sure you have done look around the forums, but also look around the internet too.

Good Luck and let us know how its all going!

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Leona Martin
A Plus Admin Services

Wow, what a great attitude you have - and an entrepreneurial spirit! I love you you decided to not wait around for a job, but created one. I am looking forward to watching your business grow.

Dawn Beauvais
Cycle Business Solutions

Hi Shakeena,

I am also a recent graduate and plan to use it to my advantage with my new business. Best of luck to you!

Evelyn