Which method??? - Virtual Assistant Forums

#1 (**permalink**) 10-27-2009

Which method of advertising as gotten you better results??

#2 (**permalink**) 10-27-2009

I think your website is your best advertisement, but you should also submit ads to as many non-reciprocal (classifieds) sites as you can - all with links back to your website.

#3 (**permalink**) 10-27-2009

I agree, my website has been most effective for me - but after that, it's definitely word of mouth/referrals. I've attempted to advertise via twitter, fb, classifieds & cold-emails too, but nothing has ever come of that time spent. I know this isn't considered "smart" in our industry, but I don't really do any official marketing now because I just found it to be a waste of time for me... but I know tons of people do have success using those methods. Do what you can (email, classifieds, mail, local networking, paper, etc.), & then see what works & what doesn't for you personally. Having a website is pretty much key these days though, so I would start there for sure if you're able.

#4 (**permalink**) 10-27-2009

Hi, I agree that your business website is an important instrumental part of your business as a Virtual Assistant. But, if you don't network via other social channels, how would anyone know to go to or search for your website? It could be the best created and chock full of information website thats currently out there BUT without actual adverstising yourself, no one will know about it. Thats just my opinion. I would suggest, twitter, facebook and your local newspapers for advertising to start with. I would then venture into doing press releases and buying ad time in more national media. Hope this helps

Stephanie

#5 (**permalink**) 10-27-2009

Word of mouth, referrals, networking, and post card mailings to my target market.

#6 (**permalink**) 10-30-2009

I have to say Lily listed them all lol I rely on word of mouth, referrals and networking. I also reply to RFP's when I see one that I would like to do. You wont want to reply to every RFP as you want to do the things you like and not just what pops up.

I believe a lot of us, when we are in the beginning stages, try to reply to every RFP, Elance and Guru post we see. What we forget is why we really got into this business for and that is the independence and working on the things we love to do.

My suggestion is start with the work you love to do. Find RFPs that fit into the things you like doing. If you end up working on something you know you do not like to do you will not do a good job.

Advertise with post card mailings. Talk to friends and family to let them help you get the word out about your business. That is the best way to obtain clients. The word of mouth actually starts with you

Good luck and let us know how you are advancing in your new business.

Sincerely,
Andrea

#7 (**permalink**) 10-30-2009

Word of mouth and referrals come in first, but there are steps to get to these and for my business they include website, business cards and even personal emails.

I put my business signature with my website address on all my out going mail business and personal. You never know when someone you know personally will know someone who needs the services you supply.

Give family and friends extra business cards to give to perspective clients.

Website with content updated regularly.

Respond to RFP's

Time permitting Networking online and locally.

Repeat and revise as needed.

That keeps me busy for now, but need to add step to ask for testimonials.

#8 (**permalink**) 10-31-2009

Linked In is a strong online method for me. Other than that my offline social networking and speaking at events on business related subjects does a better number for us.

#9 (**permalink**) 11-01-2009

Email marketig works the best for me. It's easier for me to email since I have an awesome data base of commercial realtors. The next best thing is referrals, website, newsletters and so on. Email marketing allows you to really see your marketing results.

#10 (**permalink**) 01-03-2010

Word of mouth is definitely a good method.

#11 (**permalink**) 01-05-2010

Thanks for all of the great ideas. I didn't realize that LinkedIn was a big business builder for some, I'll have to look into that.

#12 (**permalink**) 01-06-2010

Great topic. Thanks for the information. I am just getting going and this will be a big help!

Amy

#13 (**permalink**) 01-15-2010

Word-of-mouth and networking is the best method, well at least for me.

#14 (**permalink**) 12-20-2011

email marketing and word of mouth has worked for me....I have seen an increase of website traffic from my Manta company profile but no clients from the website.

#15 (**permalink**) 12-20-2011

Thanks everyone for all the useful advice. I will definitely try as many as possible.