Hi all,
I'm a newbie from the Charleston, SC area. I've been toying with the idea of becoming a VA for about a year now, and the time just seems to be right for me. I've looked at a few online companies that outsource VAs (one's that don't charge you, as I know there are lots of scammy one's out there). I was wondering if any of you work for a company or does everyone pretty much run their own business? I guess I'm concerned with everything that goes along with running my own business and would be more apt to take the plunge if I was working for a company...

Advice?

Thanks,
Nicki

Welcome Nicki
One of the things I most love about what I do is being a business owner - granted, it's more work to run the company but that's kind of the point... to be your own boss, to make the decisions and stretch yourself to grow. I wouldn't trade it for anything.

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Hello Nicki,
I run my own business and while it is more to think about, it allows me the felixibilty to be my own boss and set up my work day and take things in the direction that I choose. However if you are unsure then start out as a subcontractor and work your way to becoming independent.

You will see that as you go through the process it is not as daunting as you think. Being a business owner does take work though and while building your business takes more time, in the long run it will pay off.

Start with a plan and research the ins and outs. Once your plan is complete take a good hard look at it and decide if this is for you or not. Not to be discouraging but if you cannot devote 100% to your business then stop now.

But if this is what you really want, once you are set up and the first client walks through the "door" you will find it gets easier. You sound like you are ready to proceed and are just having some butterflies. Put that aside and believe in your abilities.

Good luck and know that whatever information you need can be found here, if not then just ask. There are so many seasoned vets and newcomers that are willing to help you learn from their mistakes and share what works for them.

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Lee Drozak
My Office Assistant

I have to "ditto" what the others have said about being a business owner. YOU are your own boss. YOU make the decisions. YOU decide whether or not to take on the work...YOU, YOU, YOU! (Catch my drift here? LOL)

I just really like to have something to call "my own", really. It really isn't as daunting as it may sound (as Lee stated), but it does take a lot of hard work, effort, determination, and motivation to keep up and running. You have to be patient, use your head (sometimes that hurts - LOL), and really pay attention to what you are doing and where you are going...BUT it is SOOOOO rewarding.

I agree (again). Take on some work as a subcontractor and get your feet wet. I think you are ready to do it - just need a little reassurance. I completely understand the hesitation, though. It's a tough decision, but you CAN do it!!

My reservations are more along the lines of my husband is letting me (wow- that sounded so 1950's-lol) give this a try... he supports me... to a certain point. I don't think he's bought into how much money I can make, so I feel like before he's going to back me 100% then I'm going to have to prove that I can make a living at this. I'd like to start out as a subcontractor, but I'm not sure really where to go?

Many thanks for the feedback,
Nicki

I currently work for a company that outsources the work but I have been toying with the idea of also getting out there on my own. It's a scary leap to take but I am sure the rewards are worth it!

I guess I am lucky that my DH is so supportive of my venture. There were days that he questioned what I did all day but now that he sees I work into the night (insomniac that I am) he does not say too much. I think that since this is not the traditional "JOB" that they are used to there are some reservations but he will come around once he sees what a great business this is.

And if he gets on your nerves you can talk about him here - we all understand!

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Lee Drozak
My Office Assistant

Thanks for the support, y'all!
Lee: it's nice to know that Hubby Venting is welcomed- lol/...

Nicki

Welcome Nicki! Having started a business (not this one) with only tacit approval from my husband, it is a hard road to walk. Do some research about the cost of starting a business, the equipment, furniture, marketing, education, and be realistic about the costs.

It also requires a time commitment and it is important that you both understand this. I recommend starting with a business plan. The benefits of working solely for yourself (not answering to another company) with your clients far exceed any advantages of working for another company.

The bottom line is, only you can decide what is best for you. Making an informed, thoughtful decision will serve you best.

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Kathy Crofoot
http://www.kathycrofoot.com

I originally worked for another company before I decided to start my own business. For me, it was an easy choice because of childcare. This way, I can stay at home with my son to avoid daycare costs and I work around his schedule.

Good luck with whatever you decide to do and know there's a ton of help available here as well!