Web URL: http://www.ultimatevirtualassistants.com
In Business Since: 2008
Type of Business: Coaches/Speakers Services
Works: 100% virtually
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Facebook Page
Twitter @ultimateva
Ruth: Welcome to the blog, Jeanette. Tell us about your business and the products/services you offer.
Jeanette: I have been working as a virtual assistant for 6 years this May. I offer a wide variety of services. My client list includes real estate agents, insurance brokers, outfitters, construction sub-contractors and most recently, life and business coaches. I work on the back-end including project management, database creation and management, creating digital filing systems, travel arrangements, email management, calendar management, systematizing, bookkeeping, standard ops procedures, etc.
Ruth: How did you get started in this virtual profession?
Jeanette: Since I was a young girl, I always wanted to have my own business. I went to college and got my Bachelor of Science Degree in Management to help me achieve that goal. After college I researched many industries and that is when I came across the virtual assistant industry. I fell in love at first sight and knew that this is where I wanted to be. I began researching the industry until I was ready to take the plunge. I quit my regular 8-5 job and went full in. Being able to run my own business while having the ability to begin and raise my family has been a dream come true and this industry is the perfect fit.
Ruth: Along the way have you had a mentor, a coach, supportive peers to help answer questions and guide you?
Jeanette: Along the way, I have had support from the Virtual Assistant Community on www.vanetworking.com. This online community has taught me a lot. Everyone is always willing to give advice and share their tips. My coach, Kimberly Wise, is a Certified Online Business Manager with over 10 years experience, who took me under her wing as an apprentice and then partner.
I have always looked up to you, Ruth, I am always following you on social media and via newsletter to keep up with the VA industry and learn new things from you. I am very thankful to everyone who has contributed to helping me create a successful business.
Ruth: Thank you for the sweet words and being my friend. What advice would you offer to someone considering a virtual career such as yours?
Jeanette: If you think a virtual career is something you think you would like to pursue, you MUST be organized, self-disciplined, tech-savvy and willing to work hard. You need to understand that this is not a “get rich quick” scheme. This is YOUR business and YOUR reputation. The business will only become successful if you work hard on it and treat it as a business. You must be willing to read a lot and learn new things because things can and do change quickly in this industry. Technology is always changing and you need to be on top of it. Depending on where you live, you may be educating other small business owners (and everyone around you) about the VA industry and what it is that you do and how you can help them grow their businesses.
Ruth: What advice would you give to a prospective client who is searching for a business like yours to service their company?
Jeanette: I believe that the driving force behind any business is the owner’s REAL reason for being in that particular business. Whether that reason is money, mission-based work, freedom from a boss, or the pure love of your industry. The processes, procedures and priorities all need to be in support of that ultimate reason or goal. I am no different! My goal is to set up efficient communication with you, so as to not need your constant attention and actually decrease your load. You must remember that a VA, is an extension of YOU in the business and my aim – after a learning curve – is to help keep your business running more efficiently and take extra tasks that you don’t enjoy off your plate. This allows you to concentrate on doing what you do love – the entire reason you started your own business. Clients should know that virtual assistants are assets that help strengthen your business. VAs can provide so much more than just completing administrative tasks. They can be used for guidance, support, or a source of knowledge.
When looking for a VA, look for someone who has the personality and work ethic similar to yours. This eliminates a lot of heartache down the road. Being able to communicate your thoughts, goals, processes, and delegation are very important to make the relationship work. You will need to take a good look at your business and decide what it is that you need help with. Perhaps your current skill set does not allow for the most efficient use of your time on a particular task. Could someone do it in half the time or less, leaving you open to accomplish the tasks you are suited for? Being tied up on tasks could very well hinder your business from moving to the next level. Is there a task you absolutely dread? There’s a VA out there who lives for that task. Your quality of business and quality of life can drastically improve.
Ruth: Any last thoughts or comments you would like to share with the readers?
Jeanette: Being able to work virtually can provide a lot of flexibility in your schedule. You are able to be there for your children when they need you most and teach them work ethic. This also means that there can be a lot of working late nights and/or weekends to get everything accomplished. As long as you create a balance, you can have the best of both worlds, a career and being a (present) parent.
Ruth: Thanks so much for chatting with me, Jeanette.
If you’d like to have Jeanette’s assistance with your coach or speaker projects contact her at her website.