It is okay to do these types of posts on Linked In (at least in the groups I'm in) as long as you post it in the "promotions" category, not as a "discussion". Unfortunately, lots of people don't follow this rule, but they also mainly get ignored so probably gain little from it.

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Virtual Bankruptcy Paralegal
www.bkprep4u.com

Originally Posted by katekindred

It is okay to do these types of posts on Linked In (at least in the groups I'm in) as long as you post it in the "promotions" category, not as a "discussion". Unfortunately, lots of people don't follow this rule, but they also mainly get ignored so probably gain little from it.

Perhaps try both and see how it works? I don't mean post the same information in both sections at the same exact time, maybe space it out a few weeks and see if you get any leads.

I posted an article about the benefits of hiring a VA and also mentioned that I'm looking to network with other people. I have a phone conference with someone next week, he said he wasn't sure we could help each other but he's still interested in learning more about my business, so we'll see what happens. Even if I can't use him as a client perhaps he can refer me to other people.

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Paulette R.
Rhythm Virtual Solutions | Alpha & Beta Translations

Paulette, since you asked, I have to agree with all the other posters on this one.

My view is this: If we all advertised, our services in forums, then there would be little room for the real purpose of these forums which is to network and add value to the forum. Plus it probably would be ignored by most people anyway.

I get referrals from other VAs, the VAF forum (PC’s do read our posts) and Google searches to my website.

Don’t underestimate the "know, like and trust" factor because it does work, I use it when I am looking to outsource work for myself or for a PC that contacts me when I don’t want the work for whatever reason. I had two recently that I outsourced to VAs that I have formed relationships with.

I would suggest networking locally and also networking online at VAF. I used to belong to multiple forums but that just took up too much time so now VAF is my forum of choice. There are vast resources here for free also much potential to meet other VAs and PCs.

In addition, there are plenty of groups on VAF that you can join to meet people. You can even start up your own networking group for online purposes or one for your own local area. Hope that helps a little bit. Good luck in whatever you choose to do!

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JoCarole
http://www.shoreofficeservices.com