I am new to this and in talking to friend she suggested that I have an Open House to introduce my self and try to pull in some local clients. Would this be tacky or is there a tasteful way of doing this. She made me start thinking about how I could enlighten people about what I do and networking with locals would help me break the ice. I have family and friends that are willing to help me with this.

This sounds like a totally feasible idea to me - but you'd be inviting people you don't know into your home. What about hosting the event through your local Chamber of Commerce or at a local community center instead of at your house?

You could publicize the event in your local paper[s] and even do a little presentation on working with a VA, or on some topic you specialze in, to get people interested in learning more about what you have to offer.

From what I've read here on the boards from other VAs who practice it regularly, local networking can be an excellent way to connect with and contract new clients.

Keep us posted on what you do - I'd love to hear more if you follow through with this.

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Tess I like your suggestions. I wouldn't be comfortable inviting a bunch of strangers into my home and the amount of preparation and cleaning required would be very time consuming (as I sit here sharing my muffin with the cat)

Lynne

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The Wordpro Wizard
www.wordprowizard.com

I have to agree with the others, inviting people into my home is something to think about. Have you found any local networking events? If so, consider approaching them about presenting to the group about virtual assistance or your niche. Or better yet, go where the locals go and meet them there. You would probably have better luck being on neutral turf.

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Lee Drozak
My Office Assistant

I, personally would be totally uncomfortable inviting strangers into my home. On the other hand, I have been finding business this weekend and last weekend just by visiting local businesses in my area with nothing but a business card and an elevator speech. It seems to be working, so this next week I am stepping it up. I've already scheduled several appointments for next week.

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Serita Diana, the List 2 Close Assistant
REVA Academy

I would suggest approaching your local chamber to ask for information on local business/networking groups you could join. I recently joined a monthly networking group that is for women-owned businesses in my local area. In addition to a keynote speaker each month, they give one 5 minute window and one 10 minute window to members of their organization to speak on some aspect of their own business. I haven't had the opportunity yet since I just joined but I intend to, and when I do I will be speaking to over 100 women business owners at one time about what Virtual Assistance is all about!