Do you ever feel ready?

[On_Time_Virtual_Assistant]

I just got my website up and started advertising this week. Wouldn't you know it, I got my first nibble after a couple of days. Crazy isn't it? I just don't feel ready or prepared. That's silly because it isn't like I'm offering services I haven't done before. I think it is the whole virtual thing that is kind of freaking me out.

I called the man's office manager, as instructed, after a couple of emails of trying to pin down what he wants and I was SO nervous. You'd think I was 12 years old. I felt really stupid after the call was over.

Anyway, I sent him my quote for the bookkeeping / payroll services he wanted and we'll see if my nibble becomes a catch. I'm sure, however; after my stumbling on the phone with his office manager she will tell him I'm an idiot!

Beth

[Your Virtual Wizard]

Beth,

These are exactly the experiences which will only help you when the next client calls and the next and so forth.

Trust when I say, it will get better. I know that doesn't help now, but with each mistake made (or perceived mistake), quite typically these hiccups are not repeated the next time around.

I would suggest following-up with the office manager and thank her/him for their time. Offer to send more information if needed. People remember "thank you's". If you can send a quick handwritten note, all the better than an email. People remember the old fashioned gestures.

Be prepared though that this may not work out...and I'm not trying to be a doomsday but the rejection can be high in this business. So I suggest, just keep marketing your business instead of counting on one client to come through. Just keep on going with your blogging, social networking, and promotion and fill up your client funnel. For the times when a client doesn't sign on with services... it can be therapeutic just to stay productive.

Post back and let us know how you do.

Good luck!

Janine

[A Lynn Virtual Assistant]

Beth,

I know exactly how you feel, but don't be so hard on yourself. I've found that honesty always works. If you let him know he's your first potential client and you're really exited about it he will show some grace and mercy.

I wish you all the best!

[MarindasBookkeepingServices]

Hi, I'm a newbie here, and I'm not even and VA officially yet. But I just wanted to say that I completely know how you are feeling. I haven't even officially started looking yet, and I'm nervous about convincing that first one. I was balking to my husband last night as I have this obsessive nervousness that some poor sap will trust me with their books, and I'll screw it soo bad that...oh lord. To which my adorable husband, says shut up you can do it. So if I may not use his words exactly, You can do it.

[On_Time_Virtual_Assistant]

It's not so much the services I am offering. I know how to do my job, but I am in the process of learning several new software programs and then I worry that I won't receive all the needed information from my clients being virtual and have to go back to ask for additional information. It just puts me on edge which is crazy. I am a professional business person in the "real world." Oh well. I'll get over it.

Beth

[adavant]

This made me me grin b/c I too was SOOO nervous about a client call this am, new client and it turned out she was very grateful and encouraging and I LOVED her. So excited about working w/ her now. AKA - It's all in our heads!

[APlusAdmin]

You know I think in some ways many of us still after many clients have that nervousness or quivering in the stomach feeling. I know at times if this client is really big I have to breathe in and out and I've been in business for 10 years! But once you start on that client and get going that feeling is gone and on you go.

Good Luck!

[lf business]

After 10 years of being in this business I do get nervous too pitching why they should use my services!

It's nice to share your thoughts on this forum!

[Rejoyce VA Solutions]

Congratulations on getting your first "bite". I know how you feel. I don't know when I'll really be ready to start! I guess you just have to jump in and do it. Best of luck!

[Annemarie Fox]

I am getting ready to officially open on August 1st. I have nightmares about never getting one client. Hopefully I will be wrong.

Congratulations on your first nibble!