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Business babysitters
June 10, 2010I encountered this term while surfing the internet. And it really struck me since this is what being a VA is all about. Its not just about assisting the company owner and their clients, but actually taking care of the whole business for them so they are worry-free.
Like when they want to go on a vacation or have an important meeting, someone just has to be there to take care of their existing business/customers. What usually works for these clients is answering phones, handling emails, and taking care of their customers, whatever their inquiry or what assistance they might need for the day. Bigger clients usually get permanent or regular VA services as business babysitters as their business grows. Some even delegate important stuff to their VAs as they grow more confident with each other.
How much do business babysitters usually charge? I would personally want a weekly retainer as this is more secure for me and for my clients. But if you have lesser tasks like answering emails, check the usual rate for this job in your industry. You might also want to check other VAs who do the same and what they charge. Normally, its based on experience and location. US based VAs charge higher than those from the Philippines or from India.
Promote your services as early as possible and as much as possible. This increases your chances of getting more clients and more business. Flyers usually don’t work when you’re offshore like me, so a website, a blog, an international ad usually does the trick.
Goodluck!
What is your support system?
June 8, 2010As a virtual assistant who’s been practicing for more than 3 years now, there were many times when, people and even family, would ask me if I’m okay with what I’m doing and if I’m earning well. If you must know, even call center agents have a certain hype here in the Philippines. Most people would think that call center employees have nothing better to do or can’t get a REAL job. I tell you, I’ve been in that business for some time also and I consider that as a major turning point for me. I honed special skills that I’m using now for my business. I say business because I consider myself as an entrepreneur. I sell my services of being an assistant. And I totally believe that I am good at it.
In previous posts, I’ve discussed the pros and cons of being a virtual assistant. One of the major cons would be the support system. Since most people don’t know about this industry, there’s a stigma that this is just some part time gig. I say not. This is as legit and stable as any business. What’s good about this business is you don’t need a big overhead capital since you’re using your own skills as the main entree.
This is one business where you can find those who truly support you or those who never believed in you and your abilities. In the first few years, you might not be able to pick out the ones who really care from the ones who actually think you’re nuts for giving up a corporate office career, but you just might see who you should stick with when you finally have the chance to think about it, in say, 2-3 years! *wink*