Alice,

Thank you so much for the information. Started looking into them already and I like two of the three. Weighing my options between Vainsiders and Ivva.

Georgia

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Arista Professional Services - the business solutions experts
www.aristapro.com

That's ok. I'm here to share knowledge! LOL

I'm finding all the job postings a bit slow at the moment though, which I suppose is normal.

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Alice - My Virtual Me
info@myvirtualme.net | www.myvirtualme.net

I have noticed the same outside of the networking sites as well. I have posted various flyers, passed out business cards, started a FB fanpage, started a LinkedIn page, and started re-connecting with some contractor friends that I have in the hope of landing one of them. Again, time will tell - I hope!!! lol

Nick

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Arista Professional Services - the business solutions experts
www.aristapro.com

Originally Posted by Arista Professional Services

Alice, Weighing my options between Vainsiders and Ivva.

Georgia,

Between the two I would go for IVVA.org. They have a good RFP section that gives you access to some very good client prospects.

Just My Opinion,

Julie

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Julie | Virtual Resource Services, Inc (VRSI)
http://www.vrsioffice.com

Thank you Julie for the recommendation!!!
We decided to go with the IVAA. Yes, we are now proud members of the IVAA and LOVE IT!!! I am hoping to get some solid leads while maintaining a good social rapport with my fellow VAers on and off the site. Keeping my fingers crossed!!!

Georgia

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Arista Professional Services - the business solutions experts
www.aristapro.com

I would like to do subcontracting for other VA's. I understand networking is good. But can you advertise your services and hand out business cards with your company information? Or do I need to set up a new business?

As always love this site!

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Tanya Daye, Administration Consultant
ChildCare Clerical

Originally Posted by My Virtual Me

The best advice I can give any newbie is to join a network - not a forum, but a network. I know sometimes finances can limit your expenses - but it really is true: to make money you have to spend money. It can take up to two years before you are established as a VA. I recommend joining http://www.vainsiders.com, http://www.vadirectory.net and http://www.ivaa.org. They all have forums so you can chat with other members, and they all have job boards for RFP's. If you're really interested in working for another VA, you should make networking your first priority - get to know the other members, join in the conversations (and be genuine about it, don't just do it to get work). If you specialise, add that to your signature on the forums, show initiative, and don't be afraid to ask.

I am just getting started trying to build my own VA business and this was very helpful! Thank You!!

If you have a good portfolio, your work can be very influential for a potential client. It helps to have years experience or high-profile past clients but your actual content is important. Your business presentation can communicate so much about your skills. Be sure that you have a sample of writing available for potential clients; this is why a blog can be helpful. Blogs highlight your creative skills, and even if your potential duties aren't particularly creative, this helps establish your credibility.