8/2008 Interview with Rebecka Melson of Virtual Business Services - Page 3 - Virtual Assistant Forums

#21 (**permalink**) 08-28-2008

I'm fairly new to the forum and slowly catching up on threads. I really enjoyed reading your story!

Your insight on "save, save, save" is oh, so true. In fact, the rule of thumb I've been told, and follow strictly, is that you should have at least six months of "savings" set aside, similar to a "reserve fund" that associations have. That way, especially for an independent business owner, a crises can be weathered without total financial upheaval. That philosophy helps me remember to save, and after an unexpected layoff onetime, I became a committed believer.

#22 (**permalink**) 08-28-2008

Six months is a good place to start, but most financial advisors now will tell you to have a year's worth of an emergency fund. I think this is even more necessary for small businesses whose sole income is dependent on their business.

Personally, I don't even have 3 months of savings yet, but I'm working on it. As I mentioned above, I did acquire some credit card debt during this process and I feel it is more important to pay the debt off first. As soon as the debt is gone, all the extra money will go to savings.

#23 (**permalink**) 08-28-2008

Great interview! I'm the polar opposite - more the creative entrepreneurial type who shies away from accounting/finances/heavily structured, rule focused tasks and you've just given me a great tip. I hadn't included any businesses on my list that dealt with those sorts of things, but those may very well be the businesses I should be targeting since it's the creative tasks I prefer to do, and those folks might be more apt to give those tasks to a VA! I'm going to give it a try...thanks!

#24 (**permalink**) 08-31-2008

Very inspiring insights! Thank you for sharing them with us.

#25 (**permalink**) 08-31-2008

Thank you Rebecka!

That was a great interview with a lot of great advice for me that I can really take on board and work with. I am only new to business myself and was still undecided as to take up a short course in small business finances (even though I have some experience in that area, it is not my strong point) but after reading your interview it is something I will complete shortly.

Thank you for your story of great courage to jump in a start your own business. I find it inspirational that people have the courage to risk no money in order to attain their dreams. I am lucky in that my husband brings in the money and anything I earn is just the cherry on top. So thank you for your inspirational story.

Many more good days to you, and all the best for the future.

Thanks again.

Debra

#26 (**permalink**) 09-06-2008

Hi Rebecka

I totally enjoyed reading your interview. The way you're approaching your business is so simple, "just taking it one day at a time". Since I'm just starting out I can relate. I'm hoping to land that one big client like you did in the beginning.

I wish you continued success.

Shelsky aka Michelle

#27 (**permalink**) 09-06-2008

Rebecka - congrats on such an inspiring interview! Sorry we didn't get to meet up when you came to Louisiana, but hopefully we will next time!

Wishing you continued success!!

#28 (**permalink**) 09-07-2008

Great interview. The information in these interviews is so helpful and inspiring!! When I read these interviews my confidence goes up a few notches!!!