 |
|
 |
|
|
08-25-2009
|
|
Contributing Member
Company name: TRC - Cheryl is writing this post
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2009
Posts: 84
|
|
Re: Potential New Client Dilemma
I've had only one client who kept me busy more than full time - I was working 20 hour days sometimes, everyone's concern about losing that one client is valid. It took about 4 months to get into regular income from new clients when he ran into a money crisis.
On the other hand, if the money is great, and it fits into what you do, and you have a safety net planned, it could be a great gig, and you could find your next gig through it.
(I would be very tempted to take it) I would keep at least one other non-high maintenance client, to keep your independent contractor status -
__________________
Cheryl O'Neil
Southern Orange County
|
|
08-26-2009
|
 |
Resident Member
Company name: Virtual Writing and Communications
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Alamance County, NC
Posts: 1,410
|
|
Re: Potential New Client Dilemma
Very fascinating discussion. My initial reaction was like most here - horror! But that just shows you ... I'm seeking business stability, others may be seeking adventure. Still, do Google him, as Shelley suggests. Make sure he's at least legit.
|
|
08-28-2009
|
 |
Contributing Member
Company name: Attentive Assistance, LLC
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: Florida
Posts: 156
|
|
Re: Potential New Client Dilemma
Wow, this discussion was awesome. Give you alot to think about when thinking of your business model. I certainly wouldn't want to have one client to sustain my business. I am sure it's ok to have a 2-3 larger clients to manage; however, it's the smaller projects that will most likely sustain your business in the long run.
__________________
Cathryn Branch, MPA 'We will either find a way, or make one.' Hannibal
|
|
08-29-2009
|
|
Contributing Member
Company name: CJ's Virtual Business Solutions
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Kansas City, MO
Posts: 240
|
|
Re: Potential New Client Dilemma
I personally would have a real concern about "24/7". Could take all your time away from your other clients.
Also, as others have said, you could possibly be putting yourself into an "employee" situation if he calls the shots. Have you checked with an attorney or accountant about this? I would need their input before I could make such a big decision.
Keep us posted!
Carol
|
|
09-09-2009
|
|
New Member
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 12
|
|
Re: Potential New Client Dilemma
Hello Everyone,
As promised, I wanted to give you all an update on my situation. I have decided to take on the new client on a 3 month trial basis and I will also keep my current clients. I did a lot of research on the client and I met with a few past and current employees including his current personal assistant. She had only good things to say about him. Before talking with her I was leaning toward not accepting the client. She was very clear about why she was leaving the position ... She's getting married and her husband to be has issues with her traveling.
The client and I have met on several occasions to discuss our expectations of each other and have agreed on a plan. I have to say THANK YOU to all of you who provided the wonderful feedback. Your comments really helped in our discussions - you brought up issues I had not considered.
Thank you all again for the wonderful advice and suggestions.
Portia
|
|
09-09-2009
|
 |
Resident Member
Company name: Action Jackson Virtual Assistant
|
|
Join Date: Apr 2009
Location: New Mexico
Posts: 1,207
|
|
Re: Potential New Client Dilemma
That is awesome Portia! I am so happy for you.
Andrea~
|
|
09-09-2009
|
 |
Junior Member
Company name: The Office Virtuoso
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Illinois
Posts: 263
|
|
Re: Potential New Client Dilemma
Portia,
That's great news! I think it's wonderful that you were able to meet the personal assistant, that's a good sign. It sounds like a wonderful opportunity for you. I hope everything works out. Always be careful, but enjoy yourself.
|
|
09-09-2009
|
|
Contributing Member
Company name: Attentive Assistance, LLC
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2009
Location: Florida
Posts: 156
|
|
Re: Potential New Client Dilemma
Portia congratulations! It's awesome that you were able to move in a direction that was right for you with the feedback you needed to make a responsible decision for you and your company. Again congrats!
__________________
Cathryn Branch, MPA 'We will either find a way, or make one.' Hannibal
|
|
09-09-2009
|
 |
Junior Member
Company name: Sage Virtual Assistance
|
|
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Sacramento, CA
Posts: 389
|
|
Re: Potential New Client Dilemma
I am very happy for you Portia! This will be an adventure that you wouldnt be able to experience... you go!!!
|
|
09-10-2009
|
 |
Contributing Member
Company name: Sunny Words
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: Portsmouth, VA, USA
Posts: 223
|
|
Re: Potential New Client Dilemma
Portia,
I think you're smart to go about it this way--talking to the client and his current assistant in detail, not being afraid to ask the hard (uncomfortable) questions, not alerting your current clients unless and until it's necessary, and doing a trial period. Actually I think the trial period is a great idea for BOTH of your sakes since this client has very specific needs that not every assistant would be willing and able to fill. The fact he recognizes that sounds to me like a very good sign--he knows he's asking a lot yet is sensitive from the assistant's perspective.
Congrats on the opportunity. I wish you all the best and hope this turns out to be a dream client for you!
|
|
|
|
| Thread Tools |
|
|
| Display Modes |
 Linear Mode
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
All times are GMT -4. The time now is 05:14 AM.
|
|
