Are you overwhelmed running your business? Are there not enough hours in the day? The more your business grows, the more administrative tasks you have; the more time you spend on administrative tasks, the less time you have to generate new business.
How much is your time really worth? YOUR time is most valuable because it is your responsibility to generate new revenue for your business. Doing small and often trivial administrative chores yourself does not really add value to your business and the sensible solution is to delegate those less profitable tasks by hiring someone more than capable of carrying them out, but whose hourly rate is somewhat less than your real financial worth. So what’s stopping you?
You may have a multitude of reasons that prevent you from hiring a full time personal assistant. You may not need a full time, or even part time employee but just require someone for occasional or limited secretarial services. Then there are the employers responsibilities, employees are entitled to sick pay, maternity leave and paid holiday and often seek generous benefits packages. It is estimated that the true cost of an employee is over double and often up to triple the cost of their annual salary in terms of benefits and liabilities.
Significant for some potential employers is also the loss of privacy and space - are you working from home or have limited office space? You may not want an employee working from your home or simply not have the room for an additional employee in your office or all the equipment they may need.
Wouldn't it be perfect if you had a business assistant that was always ready to work for you, but only when you need them? Providing secretarial services from their own home or office, using their own equipment? Meet the Virtual Assistant (VA), an invaluable new work force that provides a practical solution for small businesses owners. A VA frees up your valuable time so you can concentrate on the important things that only you can do in your business.
There is no need to share office space or even for your VA to live in the same town or city. Work assignments are communicated through email; telephone, fax or post and web-based tools such as instant messengers and online calendars and planners are also often used as a means of keeping in touch.
Because your VA is self-employed, and invoices you only for the actual hours worked or by tasks completed, and is dependent on referrals and steady work flow from existing clients, s/he can be the perfect solution for a busy small business or entrepreneur. When you hire a VA you get all the benefits of outsourcing - no employer liabilities, tax and benefits issues, coupled with the loyalty and steadiness of a company executive PA.
With a VA, you have someone to whom you can delegate. Your VA can return telephone calls, answer e-mails, and draft letters for you. They can run your diary, deal with your post, run your marketing campaign, design your next presentation, book your doctors appointment and even remind you of your spouses birthday and source the perfect gift if necessary! VA’s are already computer trained, and can assist with your specific needs from traditional office support services to highly specialised areas including web site design. You can also equip your VA to go beyond traditional secretarial support to client development and marketing support.
You can easily justify a virtual assistant in terms of your greater productivity and your greater efficiency. You need to be the leader in your business and your VA will insure that you focus on what is important, rather than urgent. Your VA can also lend "size" to your company, which will impress potential clients.
As more and more businesses move their marketing and communications to the Internet, VA’s are becoming the obvious solution to staffing issues. For an hourly fee often less than the cost of temps or the real cost of employees, businesses can take advantage of professional assistance and a variety of skills at the click of a mouse.
Need a Virtual Assistant? Then you’ve come to the right place. We have details of all the best virtual assistants and pa’s in the business so click on the link and start delegating! DIRECTORY OF UK VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS
Are you a Virtual Assistant? Do you want to establish your presence as a professional virtual assistant and become an accredited member of the UK Association of Virtual Assistants? For more information about membership criteria, our CODE OF CONDUCT and how to add yourself to our DIRECTORY OF UK VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS visit our JOIN US section.
If someone wants to leave your mailing list there is no point in trying to hold on to them, they have already made the decision not to buy from you. To give one last professional impression of your business you can at least make unsubscribing from your list easy and straightforward. It is ethical to [...]
If someone wants to leave your mailing list there is no point in trying to hold on to them, they have already made the decision not to buy from you. To give one last professional impression of your business you can at least make unsubscribing from your list easy and straightforward. It is ethical to include an unsubscribe link in all your ezines and this should link to an automated system that will remove them quickly and painlessly. Wish them farewell and get on with providing quality content to those who do want to receive it.
If you go to the effort of writing an ezine, don’t forget to tell you readers what you want them to do next. You are writing in order to build a relationship so do you want them to go to your website to read the rest of the articles or download something for free, do [...]
If you go to the effort of writing an ezine, don’t forget to tell you readers what you want them to do next. You are writing in order to build a relationship so do you want them to go to your website to read the rest of the articles or download something for free, do you want them to buy a product or service? If so give them a reason to do it now and a link to click so they can make the purchase now. If you don’t tell them what to do next, they won’t do anything apart from read your ezine then delete it. Tell them what to do and if they are interested, they will.
Don’t forget to ask your readers for their comments, questions or future topics they’d like to see covered. The whole point of writing an ezine or newsletter is to build a relationship with your prospects and invite further interaction. You want them to take the next step by picking up the telephone or dropping you [...]
Don’t forget to ask your readers for their comments, questions or future topics they’d like to see covered. The whole point of writing an ezine or newsletter is to build a relationship with your prospects and invite further interaction. You want them to take the next step by picking up the telephone or dropping you an email. Let them know it’s not only OK for them to do that but how and where they can contact you.
One of marketing’s basic rules is to know your target market well. Know their interests and what else they like to be kept informed about. If you see information that would be useful to your target audience then add it to your ezine (crediting the author or source of course). The more useful the information [...]
One of marketing’s basic rules is to know your target market well. Know their interests and what else they like to be kept informed about. If you see information that would be useful to your target audience then add it to your ezine (crediting the author or source of course). The more useful the information you provide, the more likely your readers are to stay subscribed.
It can be very tempting to fill each of your ezines with information about your latest service or product, and indeed, your readers will be expecting to hear a certain amount of that. But don’t forget also to include some free tips or an advice spot. Giving a measured amount of information for free marks [...]
It can be very tempting to fill each of your ezines with information about your latest service or product, and indeed, your readers will be expecting to hear a certain amount of that. But don’t forget also to include some free tips or an advice spot. Giving a measured amount of information for free marks you as an expert in your field. And a generous one at that.
Don’t use your ezine in the same way as you would a Twitter account or a blog. Your subscribers have given you permission to send them information, but if you abuse it they’ll soon be sorry they did and they’ll leave your list just as quickly as they subscribed to it. Send updates once or [...]
Don’t use your ezine in the same way as you would a Twitter account or a blog. Your subscribers have given you permission to send them information, but if you abuse it they’ll soon be sorry they did and they’ll leave your list just as quickly as they subscribed to it. Send updates once or twice a month and leave it at that.
When you first start sending out email newsletters it’s very tempting just to send them out using your normal email delivery service such as Outlook. After all, it’s free and already sitting there on your desktop. However, Internet service providers frown upon mass mailing and you will find that very quickly your email address will [...]
When you first start sending out email newsletters it’s very tempting just to send them out using your normal email delivery service such as Outlook. After all, it’s free and already sitting there on your desktop. However, Internet service providers frown upon mass mailing and you will find that very quickly your email address will be blacklisted and you be banned from sending any email. There are may legitimate ezine delivery services available and the costs are minimal. Use one to manage your mailing list.
If you use a proper ezine delivery service such as Constant Contact, Aweber or Vertical Response, your subscribers will go through what is know as a double opt in. That means that after submitting their email address through your web site form or other link asking them to sign up for your newsletter, they will [...]
If you use a proper ezine delivery service such as Constant Contact, Aweber or Vertical Response, your subscribers will go through what is know as a double opt in. That means that after submitting their email address through your web site form or other link asking them to sign up for your newsletter, they will receive an email asking them to confirm their subscription by clicking on a link within it. This is key as it stops third parties from adding subscribers without their knowledge.
Just a quick note so you can all put the date in your diary…
The UKAVA’s founder Justine Curtis will be part of a panel of experts taking part in a discussion about the virtual assistant industry on Radio 4’s Womens Hour on Tuesday 12th January between 10am and 10.45.
Tune in if you can!
Just a quick note so you can all put the date in your diary…
The UKAVA’s founder Justine Curtis will be part of a panel of experts taking part in a discussion about the virtual assistant industry on Radio 4’s Womens Hour on Tuesday 12th January between 10am and 10.45.
As promised this months sees the launch of a new series about our Top Ezine Housekeeping RulesWe spent the last series looking at great ways to get more subscribers to your ezine or electronic newsletter, but in the following series we’ll have a look at some of the housekeeping rules that are not only ensure [...]
As promised this months sees the launch of a new series about our Top Ezine Housekeeping RulesWe spent the last series looking at great ways to get more subscribers to your ezine or electronic newsletter, but in the following series we’ll have a look at some of the housekeeping rules that are not only ensure to adhere to the strict etiquette of Internet marketing, but ensure that you present yourself and your business in a professional and ethical way.
One of the main questions we always get asked is ‘how do I find clients for my Virtual Assistant business?‘
There are a number of marketing activities you can undertake, but one of the most effective ways is to start networking to get your name and brand out there to your local business community.
Want some tips [...]
One of the main questions we always get asked is ‘how do I find clients for my Virtual Assistant business?‘
There are a number of marketing activities you can undertake, but one of the most effective ways is to start networking to get your name and brand out there to your local business community.
Want some tips to make sure you do successful networking? Check out these free tips:
The Virtual Assistant industry is getting bigger and better every day with more and more people starting their own VA businesses. What this means for you is that you have more competition to deal with.
The trick is for you to stand out from the crowd so that you attract clients but also keep those valuable [...]
The Virtual Assistant industry is getting bigger and better every day with more and more people starting their own VA businesses. What this means for you is that you have more competition to deal with.
The trick is for you to stand out from the crowd so that you attract clients but also keep those valuable clients – it is a fact that it is easier to sell to your existing clients!
One of the things you can do is look at what added benefits you provide and compare it to your competitors to see what you are doing better and what they are doing better.
You need to be very honest with yourself and also objective as this is a very important exercise to do – there is no point getting emotional over your business, you need to think like your client.
Once you have done the analysis, have a think about what other benefits you can give to your clients.
Think about:
One stop shop – do you have a supplier database that you can recommend reputable companies to match your clients requirements. Clients come to trust their VAs so it soon becomes the norm when they are asking your advice on where to go and who to use. You could always think about teaming up with good suppliers who offer affiliate or rewards programme or so you can earn some passive income as well.
Referral system – do you reward people who refer work to you? Think about offering an affiliate system to your clients and associates. This is very appealing to clients who can earn money off their bill or commission each month just for recommending you to their contacts and clients. Everyone loves passive income so make it easy for your clients.
Proactive service – do you provide a really proactive service or do you just respond to client requests? Get to know your clients really well so that you can anticipate their needs in advance and therefore provide services or solutions before the client needs them.
Discounts – have you got products that you could offer discounts on for valued clients? Everyone likes to feel special and a great way to do that for your existing clients is to reward them with discounts.
Think about what you could offer your clients so that you can stand out from the crowd in all your marketing material and then start implementing them now.
If you are considering working with associates to expand your virtual assistant business, here’s a couple of tips:
1. Do your research. When taking on an associate VA it is very important to trust the person you are going to be working with. Although there will be contracts in place to protect you both legally, you [...]
If you are considering working with associates to expand your virtual assistant business, here’s a couple of tips:
1. Do your research. When taking on an associate VA it is very important to trust the person you are going to be working with. Although there will be contracts in place to protect you both legally, you still need to work with someone you can trust to provide a professional service to your clients, so make sure you do your research.
2. Select who you want to work with After having a good look through all available information about potential associates, including their websites, client testimonials, industry reputation etc. decide who you’d like to work with. If possible check to see if they already work with associates as this will give you an indication as to whether they might be open to this sort of arrangement.
Most people make resolutions and goals at the start of the year… and then break them within a few days! The start of the year is a great opportunity to make goals for your business and now that February is here, it is a perfect opportunity to review these goals to make 2010 your best [...]
Most people make resolutions and goals at the start of the year… and then break them within a few days! The start of the year is a great opportunity to make goals for your business and now that February is here, it is a perfect opportunity to review these goals to make 2010 your best year yet and have a really successful business.
But how can you make this happen? Why not set aside some time dedicated to you and your business only – no client work, just time to think about what you want your business to be by the end of 2010. Some things to think about:
How much money do you want to earn?
You need to think about what you want to earn as this will determine how many clients you need.
How many new clients do you want to attract?
Break it down into bite size pieces so that it is achievable – do you need 1 new client per week?
Are there any new services you want to provide?
Think about any other ways you could help your clients and team up with other professionals if necessary who have those skills.
What products could you create to compliment your business?
Everybody loves information and it is a great idea to give a free report in exchange for newsletter subscribers. What is your expertise that you could share with others?
These are just some things for you to think about as a starting point. Let your creative juices flow and don’t discount anything as too silly – brainstorm and set yourself goals to make yourself accountable.
The first thing is to identify what ‘success’ really means for you. It sounds simple but it is different for everyone. Do you want a six figure income, or do you simply want to replace your old full time salary and only work part time hours? Or do you even want to build a highly successful business that you can then sell on as a going concern and retire on the profits?
Once you’ve decided what you want to achieve, the next step is to decide how you will get there. You need to set out your objectives, define your marketing strategy, set your budget and organise your operational process to take it all into account.
You’ll also need to decide if you already have all the tools you need, or if you need some training or professional advice in order to achieve your goals. You may also need someone to hold you accountable as without it, it’s all too easy for the big goals to get lost in the minutiae of the day to day.
Some of the questions we get asked relates to blogs – the benefits of having one and how do you set it up. To answer these questions, we have created this 10 step guide to help you get your own blog set up.
"10 Steps for Successful Blog Set Up"
Download it now at http://vasuccessgroup.co.uk/virtual-assistant-freebies/10-step-downloads
Some of the questions we get asked relates to blogs – the benefits of having one and how do you set it up. To answer these questions, we have created this 10 step guide to help you get your own blog set up.
Before we have children, our focus is on our careers and ourselves without worrying too much about our lifestyles. But once children come along, we are 100% responsible for them and our priorities completely change.
When it comes to making the decision to stay at home or return to work, there could be an element of [...]
Before we have children, our focus is on our careers and ourselves without worrying too much about our lifestyles. But once children come along, we are 100% responsible for them and our priorities completely change.
When it comes to making the decision to stay at home or return to work, there could be an element of guilt with whichever decision we make – go out to work and we miss seeing our children; stay at home and we don’t keep our skills up to date.
One thing that you can consider is running your own home based business to fit around your family commitments. This is a perfect solution for a lot of mums who want the best of both worlds without feeling guilty!
Emma is mum to 3 year old daughter Megan and has been running her business as a Virtual Assistant for over 4 years and absolutely loves it.
“I set up my business just before I was pregnant but once my daughter came along, I realised it was the perfect solution for me as I fit running my business around her. My daughter goes to nursery for 2 days a week to socialise her with other children and then I work when she naps (she still has up to 2 hours in the afternoon at the moment) or is in bed for the night on the other days.
Running my own business means I spend quality time with my daughter as I see her develop every day, but it also means I utilise the skills I spent over 10 years developing so they don’t go to waste and I am keeping up with technology.
I regularly get enquiries from other mums asking about starting their own Virtual Assistant business as people are realising the huge potential available. The Virtual Assistant industry is such a supportive community of supportive people and there are a large number of mums running their business to fit around their family."
Working as a Virtual Assistant can be a lonely business. You’re in the office all day on your own. There’s no-one to gossip with over the kettle or photocopier. We even resort to chatting online to our virtual assistant friends as they become our new work colleagues.
What if those new friends and colleagues were very [...]
Working as a Virtual Assistant can be a lonely business. You’re in the office all day on your own. There’s no-one to gossip with over the kettle or photocopier. We even resort to chatting online to our virtual assistant friends as they become our new work colleagues.
What if those new friends and colleagues were very successful and experienced virtual assistant business owners themselves? What would you ask them, if they would answer, about how they got where they did, what would they do differently if they were starting again now.
And how valuable would that interaction be if they not only gave you advice but helped you construct an action plan to get you on the road to success, and then helped you achieve the goals that you set yourself? What if they also held you accountable so you actually did what you set out to do?
Want to hear an honest and open interview where Justine and I answer some of the most common questions we get asked? Check out this great free interview now.
Download it now at: http://vasuccessgroup.co.uk/virtual-assistant-freebies/interviews/
Want to hear an honest and open interview where Justine and I answer some of the most common questions we get asked? Check out this great free interview now.
One of the main problems that all Virtual Assistants eventually face is hitting the limit on the number of hours that can be billed to clients … we only have 24 hours in every day and we do have to get some sleep! We also have to do the administration for our own business as [...]
One of the main problems that all Virtual Assistants eventually face is hitting the limit on the number of hours that can be billed to clients … we only have 24 hours in every day and we do have to get some sleep! We also have to do the administration for our own business as well as continual marketing activities to ensure a steady stream of clients.
So how can you earn more money? One way is to bring on board associates to undertake some of the client work so that you can take on more work. There are 2 ways that this could work:
1. You act as Project Manager meaning all client requests come to you to delegate and then work carried out is returned to you to check before sending back to the client. This is a very hands on role and will take up a lot of time and won’t be billable.
2. Give your client direct access to the associate to communicate requests and receive completed work. This means that you can still undertake billable work without having to get too involved.
Once you make the decision to start working with associates, think about the people you can bring on board to compliment your skills and even offer new services. For example, think about social media management, book keeping, SEO, website design, IT helpdesk, telephone answering, copywriting, audio typing, shopping cart management and graphic design. The services you offer don’t have to be traditional Virtual Assistant services, think about what would be useful to your customers and act like a one stop shop for them so that you are earning money from it.
Want advice and support to help you start working with associates? Check out our popular mentoringpackagesavailable where we can guide you through the process.
