Support Systems for VAs

As I have progressed in my career – and it is a career – one of the most important systems that I have in place is a support system.

Working from home presents many challenges – one of which is that you might rarely get out into public. For some of us that’s not so bad. However, it is vital that you do get out.

Join some local networking groups, an Internet-based networking group, meet colleagues for lunch, and get support from family.

There are times when, overwhelmed, I grab my husband and he helps me out by running errands, doing data entry, proof reading, and more. It gives him insight into my world.

My friends and IAAP Chapter members are so supportive and are there to listen to me when things are going rough, going great, and to be my cheerleaders.

Plus, I have many AssistU VAs that are my life support! We bounce ideas off of each other and try to keep each other sane in a very insane world.

If you are in the corporate world – do the same. Develop those support systems so you do not burn out.

The Art of Becoming a VA

I have been asked to post a little about becoming a Virtual Assistant, otherwise known as a VA.

I was in the corporate world for many years and after losing a fantastic boss and working for someone who did not understand ethics and the business world, decided to work for myself.

An article in the Office Pro Magazine, published by the International Association of Administrative Professionals, written by Stacie Brice caught my attention. Wow! The idea of working from home, with people I chose to work with, setting my own hours, and deciding my own career path simply took my imagination to the limits.

I did extensive research – and recommend everyone do that – and decided to go through the program at AssistU (www.assistu.com). It is a 20-week course and not cheap. I decided it would give me credibility and the background I wanted.

The AssistU program is designed to teach you how to run a business. They make the assumption that you have the technical skills but should learn the nuances of being a Virtual Assistant. You are required to complete an application and pass the final test in order to be affiliated with the organization.

Now, there are several other great VA organizations out there – without the stiff requirements. You need to do your own research and decide what fits for you and your business goals.

After graduating from the program, AssistU has a registry for potential clients, a wonderful community of VAs to help, and other various benefits to help you start your practice; including mentoring or coaching.

Once you decide to become a VA, which you can do without any formal training, you must market yourself constantly. Develop an elevator speech, join Internet mail lists, develop a website, do anything and everything to get your name out there. I have found that word of mouth is the best way to build your practice.

Caution – it can take a while to build a full and successful practice. But, it is most definitely worth it.