Hello, I just answered a plea of a fellow virtual assistant who started her VA biz over a year ago so that she could stay home with her newborn child, but has had very little luck with landing regular clients. After the crazy first year or so of raising a newborn and a move to a new part of the country, she is facing having to leave her child in daycare and take a 9-5 job again. She asked for some advice. Here is how I responded:
First, she just moved to a new state not too long ago. Did she issue a press release (there are so many free online press release services) announcing her business in that area? I recommend putting the state or the city and state in the title of the headline. Some may think that is limiting her reach, but my thought is - it can pick up the interest of the local media, *her name would start getting recognized at networking gatherings.
Second, on that note, join local free networking groups. There are "meetups", local business women groups, business associations, twitter meet ups etc. My recommendation go! You can't be any worse at public attention then I have been in my life. I almost failed 10th grade english because I wouldn't do a book report in front of the class! But I made myself go when I started my business. I've met some amazing people along the way and landed a radio interview after striking up a facinating conversation with Deb Neuman from "Back to Business" at a local business womens group.
Third, I suggested something that others might think is odd but I love it. Join help a reporter out Three times a day she will receive an email from HARO with reporter inquiries asking for interviewees on a number of topics. I answered one last year about women owned home businesses and now will be in a Family Circle magazine article in February of this year :). But beyond looking for topics that she will be able to participate in she will find some that relate to the work of someone she knows from a networking group. What kinder compliment can you give then to suggest they follow up with this reporter because you think they will make a great contribution to the article, or book, or blog post, or tv/radio spot. He gets all kinds of great opportunities, check it out.
Fourth, determine who her ideal client is if she hasn't already, types of businesses and people she wants to work with, what specific services does she want to offer? Then once you have the 411 on the ideal client, start her networking with social media and find sites that her ideal clients go to. I wish I had added a bit more in my response to her about social media. But still time to do that.
I love helping people who want to get into this industry. I've rambled enough :) Any thoughts??
Bad Decision -Star Lord
9 years ago
