When networking with other Virtual Assistants one question that you often hear is “how do I find the right client for my business”. You will get a myriad of answers to this question and rightfully so, there are many different types of VAs out there. For as many different VAs there are, there are many more different businesses, which all need different types of assistance. When choosing your VA there are several things you need to consider.
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Consider your needs. You can find a Virtual Assistant that can do project work on a one time basis or someone who can be a long term resource for your business. VAs can be found with all types of specializations including, but certainly not limited to web design & SEO, general administration, organizing, bookkeeping, personal services and real estate.
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What is your work style? If you plan to have a VA that contributes to the long term success of your business, you want someone that you are compatible with. If you are the go with the flow type then you probably want someone who takes the reins a little more. Likewise, if you are the micromanaging type then you probably want someone that has you more involved, with daily updates on project status and so forth. Regardless of your personality type, there is a Virtual Assistant out there that will work for you. Be sure you spend some time engaged with the VA prior to choosing them for the long term, you will benefit from it.
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You get what you pay for. There are Virtual Assistants all over the world. Most recently there has been a surge of them from India. They are able to offer their services at a much lower rate than most VAs that you will find in the US or other countries. While they are able to offer these great rates you will often find that there are obstacles including a language barrier. That is not to say you won’t get good services from them, but that they may not be able to perform all of the tasks that you need. The going rate for a VA in the US is $25-80 depending on their specialization. You wouldn’t expect to go to a doctor, lawyer, or other professional and only pay them $10-20 for a visit. This should be the same for your VA, they will be a professional who will work along side you to grow your business.
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Finding your VA. There are several different avenues you can use to find the perfect Virtual Assistant. There are association websites that are dedicated to VAs including VANA and IVAA. Businesses can post RFPs (Request For Proposals) and member VAs pay to have access to them. Typically you will get quality responses shortly after posting. Websites such as Elance and Guru are another option. You post your job listing and VAs bid on the job. The winning bidder pays a percentage of their fee to the website and sometimes a fee to be able to bid. You will find many of the VAs from around the world here, so be ready to see bids starting at $5 per hour. Just remember, often you get what you pay for. Another option is a Google , or other search engine, search. This could be time consuming, but if you are looking for something specific or are in a target industry, you never know what you will come up with. Finally, networking is certainly an option for finding your VA. We are business owners and often can be found at local networking events and on networking websites such as LinkedIn.
Which approach you take to finding your perfect Virtual Assistant is up to you. Be sure that you can build a lasting relationship with your chosen VA. They will be an invaluable resource in growing your business and taking care of your needs.
The Essential Virtual Assistant, Kellie Stotsky, is new to the Virtual Assistant industry, but not to the administrative field. She offers general administrative services and specialized services for restaurants and catering. With 10+ years experience in administration and the restaurant industry she may be the perfect Virtual Assistant for you.
I found your site on technorati and read a few of your other posts. Keep up the good work. I just added your RSS feed to my Google News Reader. Looking forward to reading more from you.
Eric Hundin
Another place to find Virtual Assistance would be through Assistu (www.assistu.com), which offers a referral service for potential clients.
Hey Kelli:
With your catering and hospitality experienced, you’d be a great VA for a catering business. Have you thought of maybe doing some research and compiling a list of catering companies, perhaps starting with those in your immediate area, and mailing them an introductory letter. I’m a grassroots marketer. When I ran the Event and Meeting Planning and Music Business Programs at SFSU, marketing was a huge part of my programs’ success; but I avoided the traditional marketing areas and did a lot of grassroots, non-traditional marketing, which seemed to the way to go. I’m going to be starting a weekly tips newsletter soon. So stay tuned. It will consist of network ideas, marketing, etc. I’m thinking of doing an Ebook as well.
My one closed-captioning client just gave me notice that she would be going on air in a month and since this is my largest client, I’ve got to really really hustle now.
Continued Succcess.
Evelyn
http://www.emackulate.wordpress.com
Evelyn
Thank you for your tips. I look forward to your newsletter. I have finally got all of my ducks in a row as far as contracts and forms go. Next I am going to be putting together my marketing materials. Contacting catering companies is on my to do list. My niche target will be restaurants and catering companies. That being said, I will not limit myself to just the food and beverage industry. I know when things take off for me it will be great, for now I am just pressing forward and looking for that elusive first client. We all have to start somewhere.
-Kellie