Hi.
I have learnt a lot from this - I am only just setting up my business, but in the last week I've got 2 clients, and a swag of people wanting to talk to me. I am looking to the future where I won't be able to do it all myself (with a family), and potentially another child. Lots to think about to prepare for this from the start. Already a friend who would likely thrive doing some of the work at home herself - but we'll see.

Julie

The best part about giving to subcontractors is they don't necessarily expect a retainer. You can give them work as needed. We're kind of a temporary agency for other VAs

I recently got to a point where I either had to start turning away potential clients, or bring someone one to help me. I just didn't have any more time to give. I knew if I wanted my business to grow, I had to keep taking clients, so my answer was to hire. I knew it was time!

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Holly B. Neitzel
www.theAccountingSPOT.com

Hi Serita,

I don't think it is ever too early to start planning. It sounds like you will need help in the very near future so I would take the time while you can to start the prep work as far as contracts, procedures for client work, correspondence, etc.

I work with a couple of VA's that if they need me I am there but I knew going into it that it would be projects here and there and not a steady flow. I was okay with that and I think it works well for the other VA's because when they do need me I am a phone call or email away. They aren't starting the search process in the midst of needing help.

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Amy
TAG Virtual Office, LLC

For years I've had a couple of VAs that I would subcontract to when I needed help. I've always had someone I could turn to when I got overloaded. At the end of last year, I officially built a multi-VA practice and have added VAs that specialize in particular areas.

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Jama St. John
Gulf Coast Office Support

I launched my business a year ago, while I was still working full time. I have been subcontracting and bartering with others when they have overflow. I like the idea that your business if growing- think if people network with you when you are small those are the first people you would consider when you are growing.

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As an owner of a multi-VA business, my advice is to plan and expect growth. You can do it! :-) Thus, if you are already "maxed out" as a "one man show", it is past time for you to look at expanding.

I think the hardest part is finding team members that are a fit. Since it sounds like you have already achieved that, I would recommend getting your systems set up and launching into a multi-VA business.

Personally, I LOVE it! It does take a lot of work and there are some challenges. However, I feel the benefits outweigh the risks.

Best wishes!

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Cathryn Jones
Assistants For Agents, LLC

I worked for several years solo. I found that before I could step out with a team, I had to build creditability. To answer your question, it wasn't until 5 years after I built a name for my self that I started to assemble a team.