Where did you work before you became a VA?

I worked in the corporate finance department of an accountancy firm, working as a Research Executive, identifying potential acquirers for businesses for sale, preparing business plans and detailed information memorandums. Before then, I was PA to 3 of the firms’ 9 partners.

When did you first hear about Virtual Assistants or became aware they even existed?

I worked for a tech start up back in 2004 after university and had the pleasure of working with a wonderful lady who provided freelance office services (set ups, systems & admin) to the new start up companies within the incubator. I always thought this was a great idea for a business and wondered why there weren’t more people offering a service like this. Years later, whilst feeling very unfulfilled with my work, I decided to take a look to see if there was anyone else offering these services and found that the industry had definitely evolved and I was instantly intrigued!!

What made you want to become a VA?

Simple – my babies!! I wanted to be around for them.

After returning to work following the birth of my second child, I wasn’t happy, I had severe ‘mum guilt’. Long days in school / nursery for the kids, coupled with my commute to and from work meant I was exhausted. So when I fell pregnant again, I decided now was the time to take the leap. I had always wanted to be my own boss, so it was now or never.

Did you leave your job or start working as a VA on the side?

I didn’t go back to my job following maternity leave.

What or who helped you get started as a VA?

The wonderful internet!!

Whilst on maternity leave I began to do loads of research into becoming a VA, what services were offered, how much VA’s charged etc. Instagram was a huge help for  inspo…. It’s also how I came across you 🙂 

Who was your first client and how did you get them?

My first client came via a Facebook share!! I created a post about the services I was offering and my friend shared the post, a week later I had a message waiting for me in my inbox! My client owns a design company and was drowning in her workload. She wanted to grow her business but just didn’t have the time. I initially started out raising her invoices, organising her Dropbox, creating fee proposals and document templates.

Two years later and we are still working together. I have taken on more responsibility implementing new systems, managing her socials and website.

What’s the best thing about being a VA?

Don’t get me wrong, you can never free yourself from the ‘juggle’ of being a working mum, but having the freedom to work when and how I want is just the BEST!

What’s the hardest thing about being a VA?

For me it’s setting boundaries with clients. I have learned the hard way. It’s super important and if you don’t set them straight away, you can find yourself overwhelmed with work. Which is what has happened to me in the past. Clients expected me to be available at all times, and when you’re working with multiple clients this is an impossible task. 

What types of things have you had to learn to become a VA?

Oh there is so much to learn, and it’s so fun to do!! 

To become a successful VA I think knowledge of the following tech is essential:

• Gmail
• Canva
• Asana
• Mailchimp
• Planoly
• Squarespace (or WordPress)

Once you’ve mastered them for your own business you can then start to offer to your clients.

As well as the above, I also have learned how to use:

• Quickbooks
• Hubspot
• Basecamp
• Xero

There are so many courses available online, with a bit of dedication you can bring yourself up to speed.

I’d really like to learn how to use Dubsado and Kajabi….. They are next on my list!

What’s a typical day look like for you?

I work around 20 hours a week so I can still do school / nursery pick ups and drop offs (when the world is functioning normally!! :P). 

I generally stick to set working days.

I start at 9:30am and finish at 3pm and will work one evening a week.

I have weekly planning calls with my regular clients, so I can plan my workload. As I mentioned earlier, I now make sure I clearly communicate what I can deliver and when from the outset.

What would you say to anyone thinking of becoming a VA?

If you want a varied, interesting and flexible career that works for you, then take the leap…… you won’t regret it!