April 14, 2009

The Mic Is On: Meet Stacy Brice! Let’s Bust Myths about Virtual Assistants

ME Liz Strauss wrote this at 6:57 pm

It’s Like Open Mic Only Different

Here’s how it works.

It’s like any rambling conversation. Don’t try to read it all. Jump in whenever you get here. Just go to the end and start talking. EVERYONE is WELCOME.
The rules are simple — be nice.

There are always first timers and new things to talk about. It’s sort of half “Cheers” part “Friends” and part video game. You don’t know how much fun it is until you try it.

Stacy Brice Is Hosting

What Myths Do You Believe about Virtual Assistants?

Delegation. We can’t get work done without help, but no one can do our work as well as we can … right? Actually, maybe we ought to reconsider.

What myths about VAs do you believe?

A VA will never do things as well as I do.
I can’t afford a VA.
I should work with an $8/hour VA oversees–I’ll get more bang for my buck.
I don’t think the virtual thing would work–I need to be with someone face-to-face.
I should have a bunch of VAs who specialize–no one can do it all for me.

And, whatever else comes up, including THE EVER POPULAR, Basil the code-writing donkey . . . and flamenco dancing (because we always get off topic, anyway.)

Brinng your questions and your relevant links!

–ME “Liz” Strauss

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290 Comments to “The Mic Is On: Meet Stacy Brice! Let’s Bust Myths about Virtual Assistants”

April 14th, 2009 at 7:02 pm
Stacy Brice said
Hi, everyone Glad to be here!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
Amy Kinnaird said
Hi Stacy!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
Carol said
Hi there everyone!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
Heya!
Are you feeling alone! Of course my phone rang! If only I had a VA!!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Kyle said
Hi Miss Stacy!

This is interesting!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
Stacy Brice said
I can help make that a reality, Liz!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:05 pm
Carol said
AssistU has an awesome registry to match clients and VAs, Liz.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:05 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
Stacy,
I heard that VAs don’t work for free. heh heh
April 14th, 2009 at 7:05 pm
Stacy Brice said
Hi, Kyle… welcome! Tell me, what’s the single biggest myth about working with a VA that you would personally like to bust tonight?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Amy Kinnaird said
So, Stacy, what do you hear from business owners about why they are looking for help?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Stacy Brice said
Awww, Liz… I bet someone would love interning for you!

Hi, Carol!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Patti Seipp said
Hi Miss Stacy!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
#11
Send them — and I mean them — over Stacy. I’ve got lots to teach.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
Stacy Brice said
Hi, Amy… lots of reasons: overwhelm, don’t know what to do next, so many possibilities but only two hands and one brain…

What do you hear?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:07 pm
Carol said
The biggest myth I’d love to bust is how much a VA charges and the whole offshoring thing.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
Kyle said
One of the Little Myths; That is ut unbusiness-like to let your clients know when you will be out of the office.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
Stacy Brice said
Carol — are you hearing that VAs charge too much (here at home), or..?

And what about offshoring?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:09 pm
Stacy Brice said
Miss Patti–good to see you!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
Deborah Mitchell said
Hi Stacy!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
Stacy Brice said
Kyle…clients say that? What do you think the expectation is?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:11 pm
Amy Kinnaird said
Stacy: I hear the overwhelm thing. They don’t know where to start.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:11 pm
Stacy Brice said
Liz…do you have any myths you’d like me to bust (or try to?)?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:11 pm
Carol said
Well, when I’m interviewing potential clients and the price comes up, they ALWAYS mention that they’ve heard or talk to VAs who charge $20/hr as if that’s the standard and those of us who charge in the $50 or more are charging too much.l
April 14th, 2009 at 7:12 pm
Deborah Mitchell said
I’m interested in off-shoring as I may be traveling to my home country and working from there part of the year. Any feedback?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:12 pm
Stacy Brice said
Amy, and the problem is that the overwhelm can keep them from taking ANY action, which just keeps them stuck and unable to get any traction, and in overwhelm.

I like to tell them to do a brain dump of all the things they do that they don’t need to be doing, and give THAT list to a VA to manage/do/make happen.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:13 pm
Kyle said
Clients are not saying that. I hear that in other virtual assistant circles.

My clients tell me their schedules and I tell them mine. That way, if something comes up and they know I am out of the office, they can take care of it. Instead of wondering where on earth I am and why I am not responding.

I think it is a common courtesy and very respectful of the relationship.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:13 pm
Stacy Brice said
Deborah…where’s your home country? And are you in the US now? Where do you spend most of your time, and where’s your client base and/or market?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
Stacy Brice said
I agree about the respect thing, Kyle. So you want to bust that myth with other VAs. Great idea!!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
#23
Carol,
At a time like that I would point out that the person is doing that work and paying himself or herself far more.

Someone who charges clients $150 dollars an hour is losing $100 an hour if they could be doing client work while do what they’re doing instead.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
Kyle said
Yes. Along with the one that has already been mentioned. That just because I charge more than $4/hour, I charge too much.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:17 pm
Stacy Brice said
Carol… that’s a great myth to bust. In reality, no one in the US can run a profitable business for less than $30/hour. And many can’t be profitable for THAT.

I think the challenge really, in that context, is to help people understand that.

They are still thinking of what they’d pay an employee…and what they’re doing in working with a VA isn’t that.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:17 pm
Deborah Mitchell said
My home country is Panama. I’m in Los Angeles and I spend most of my time here, but I’m looking into purchasing property there, which means I’ll be traveling more. My client base will be for the most part in the U.S., however, I want to open up that venue to incorporate clients residing and owning business in Panama.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:17 pm
Patti Seipp said
I am baffled by so many Registry requests for web site designers and very technical skills – please bust that myth. Is there such a thing as an “old fashioned VA” – because that’s me!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:18 pm
Carol said
That is so true, Liz, which is why I want to bust that myth.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:18 pm
Ava Edlin said
Hi Stacy and Liz,
Myth to bust, we can’t do as good as our clients can do themselves. Has been proven that working as a collaborating team, the presence is improved and gives a more professional image to the client their business and their success.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:19 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
#34
Just say, “You’re an expensive coffee maker.”
April 14th, 2009 at 7:19 pm
Stacy Brice said
#33
Patti…

Just to clarify for anyone who doesn’t know, The Registry is the referral service at AssistU.com–and is free to the public.

In reality, they want more than those tech skills..yes?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:19 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
#33
What is “an old fashioned” VA?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:20 pm
Stacy Brice said
#32

Deborah…

If you’re going to, in reality, be in two countries, running your business, I would say to go with a VA in whatever country would serve you best.

Or, have two
April 14th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Patti Seipp said
yes, administrative skills…
April 14th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Stacy Brice said
#36

Liz…that’s just too funny
April 14th, 2009 at 7:23 pm
Stacy Brice said
#40

Patti,

You know my answer…you can get anything handled. If clients don’t want your administrative expertise,if they’re so short-sighted to think that you have to be able to do everything yourself, then they aren’t ideal for you.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:24 pm
Patti Seipp said
I did know your answer!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:24 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
#41
Stacy,
I guess that would qualify me as an SA. heh heh
April 14th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
Ava Edlin said
Wow, I have not been called an expensive coffemaker before today. I don’t do windows or coffee making.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
Stacy Brice said
And there’s a myth I’d love to bust–that the “right” VA will know how to do everything a client needs.

In reality, if each of us learned 500 new things every day, then, combined (all of us here in chat right now), we’d STILL never know how to do it all.

So people should stop looking for VAs who can…that’s a lose/lose proposition.

Instead, what’s smart is to find someone who can be a right hand person (which is about fitting in with the company culture, being deeply trusted, etc.), who can do much of what’s needs, and get the rest handled using great resources.

That also makes use of the best possible vendors, and pricing for services.

“Let your VA handle it” isn’t just a pretty phrase, but a way of life!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:26 pm
Carol said
Patti’s comment brings up another myth about what a Virtual Assistant does: across-the-board administrative services. There are a lot of people out there who are calling themselves VA’s when in fact they aren’t.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Stacy Brice said
Welcome, Ava… what DO they call you? Heh!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
Patti Seipp said
Carol – absolutely – thanks.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
Stacy Brice said
Liz…

It’s better to be a SA than a DA
April 14th, 2009 at 7:29 pm
Ava Edlin said
I am called their angel, the “go to girl” and have been told by a few, they ask themselves “what would Ava do?” to get it done.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Stacy Brice said
#51

Much better than an expensive coffeemaker, any day

Although, there may be people who would rather have an expensive coffeemaker than a VA, I suppose.

:::looking at Kyle::::
April 14th, 2009 at 7:30 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
#50
or to have to be in AA
April 14th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
Dawn said
I have a client who works with me, another AssistU VA, two website designers, a copywriter, and two people who handle her info repurposing.

She certainly doesn’t think that one of us needs to do everything – we each bring a certain something to her business.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
Adrian Dayton said
I am using a VA, and I am loving it so far. Sure I COULD learn it myself over an agonizing few days- but I want to focus on what I am best at- and let the VA do what they do best. It is also nice to have someone to bounce ideas off that can be honest with you.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
Stacy Brice said
#53

Or any other A.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
Ava Edlin said
Hi Stacy, I just wanted to stop by and visit. I know that any VA from AssistU is ‘the best’ VA in the world. AssistU rocks!!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
Stacy Brice said
#54

Hi, Adrian…welcome! Congrats on getting the help you need. How does it feel?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
RJS said
So, I am in need of a EPA, if that is the right term and am therefore interested in the conversation. Thanks. Does it refresh or do I just keep refreshing every little bit?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
Stacy Brice said
#56
April 14th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
Dawn said
#50 – that’s my line, Miss Stacy.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:33 pm
Stacy Brice said
Liz.. so you really don’t have a VA?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
Kyle said
#52 – ok so why are you looking at me?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
Stacy Brice said
#59

Hi, RJS — welcome. Refresh after you post to see more comments.

I’ve not heard the term EPS..can you tell me what it means?

Chances are, whatever that is, you’ve come to the right place
April 14th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
Todd Jordan said
Good evening! Thought I’d drop in for a bit. Especially since I could use a virtual assistant.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
Stacy Brice said
#63…expensive coffee maker

#54…you have a very smart client!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
Todd Jordan said
Never heard of AssistU.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
Stacy Brice said
#65

Hi, Todd… welcome! Can we share anything with you that would be especially helpful?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
#62
I’m at that in-between point. I’ve had interns and cowriters all along. Now I have someone who helps with specific tasks, but they’re very narrowly niched. Haven’t crossed over yet. Expect to soon.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
Kyle said
#59 – I think EPA – Executive Personal Assistant

#67 – Assistu is the premier training and community for the premier virtual assistants. Note – repetition of premier.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
Stacy Brice said
#67

Todd! Well, you’re really in the right place then

AssistU.com…the very first organization for VAs, anywhere. We’ve been in biz since ’97, and train, coach and refer superb VAs.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Hi everyone, interesting topic. My thing is the control issue – will the VA do it the way I need/want it done? What is too complicated to hand over? What’s too boring?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:39 pm
Ava Edlin said
#62, sounds like you have not found the ‘right’ va and partner to help out yet.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:39 pm
Stacy Brice said
Thanks for the EPA def, Kyle… I like that acronym. Hmmmmm..naaaa…it sounds like a governmental agency
April 14th, 2009 at 7:39 pm
Todd Jordan said
@Stacy Am I understanding right, that if I need someone to spend a few hours each week working emails and appointments that I should expect to pay them > $100/hr?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:41 pm
Dawn said
#72 – Glenda, as a VA AND a client with my own VA – it’s a matter of trust. It’s really more about the relationship than the down and dirty tasks to do.

My clients trust me to get their stuff done – and I bring something to their businesses – a complement to what they themselves bring.

And I see that with my own VA – she understands me and what I need – and I know what her skills are. Together, we’re a team.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:41 pm
Stacy Brice said
#72

Hi, Glenda

Is it a control issue, or a trust issue?

There’s nothing too boring, or complicated. A VA will work within your parameters.

Are you here in the US? If so, and you really NEED to control how, when, and why things happen, you need an employee–the IRS would probably classify your VA as such if they looked.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
Ava Edlin said
@todd, the rates or hourly amount is worked out between you and the va, but it will not be a low amount. Most VAs are business owners and run their own business with skills and expertise of a professional.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
Kyle said
#72 – A virtual assistant partners with you. We talk about how you want to do things, if it is working, and if we can suggest a better way to build the mousetrap, we do just that.

However, ultimately – it is your business and you make the final decisions.

I don’t know of anything that is too difficult or complicated that can’t be handed over.

Boring – we all do boring stuff at one time or another.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:43 pm
Stacy Brice said
#75

Todd–I sure wouldn’t. But you absolutely could expect to pay $35-$40.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:43 pm
Carol said
#75 Todd, a Virtual Assistant does much more than working a few emails and appointments. They provide across-the-board administrative services. A VA is a partner for her client’s success.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:45 pm
Stacy Brice said
Todd…another thought to share about that, though.

Each VA (business owner) has the right to set his/her fees. You have the right to not work with someone whose fees aren’t what you want to pay. That’s how it all works.

It’s not based, per se, on the work done. VAs (generally speaking) don’t have different rates for different sorts of admin work.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:45 pm
Todd Jordan said
#80
Appreciate the feedback. I was figuring closer to $50 or so.

Definitely on the side where I couldn’t yet afford one on a regular basis. But I can see the need for sure. I’m terribly behind in my personal side of things.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
Dawn said
#75 – And the other thing that you get when you partner with an amazing VA is someone who knows you and your business inside out. Yes, maybe the VA is answering emails, but she’s doing so from a place where she knows your business philosophy (what is your philosophy around customer service), your goals (is there something in responding to this email that has your goals in mind), as well as unloading your plate so you can do what only you can do the best.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
Stacy Brice said
#75

One more thought…I suspect that if you actually have a few hours/week of email and appointments, you probably have a whole heck of a lot more that a VA could do for you.

And *then* the question of whether you need someone who is a rock star VA with fees to match becomes a more reasonable conversation to have.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
#77

I am in Canada. Someone has graciously offered her VA services, but I’m not using them as much as perhaps I could. Never sure what to hand over.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
Dawn said
#86 – the I would wonder if she’s the right VA for you. The right VA should make you feel like a kid in a candy store who’s just been given free rein. “I’ll have some of that… and that… and that…”
April 14th, 2009 at 7:49 pm
Stacy Brice said
#86 — so the IRS regs aren’t the same about this. That’s good news for you

But as for what to give her… literally everything that doesn’t need you to touch it or be involved in it, and a goodly portion of what does need you to be involved in it.

And as for giving up control–growing to trust a VA..what I tell clients is that if you don’t feel comfy doing that w/i the first 30 days, the VA isn’t the right one for you, and you should look for another.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:50 pm
Todd Jordan said
BTW, hi Glenda, Liz, Stacy and everyone.

#85
Stacy, for sure you might be right there. Once things pick back up, my personal schedule outside my day job will only get busier. There is also tons of social media related work I could use someone to do, such as helping organize events, sponsor calls, etc.

My problem is the catch between need and funds.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:50 pm
Stacy Brice said
#87 yeah… what Dawn said
April 14th, 2009 at 7:50 pm
Ava Edlin said
Todd, if you see the need, then start out with the hours you need, and build that relationship. Everyone has to start from a point where they need the help. You see that you need help, don’t let it overwhelm you and then you do nothing. There is a VA out there that you will find to assist you from where you need to start or lightening the load of personal items clogging your life.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:52 pm
Stacy Brice said
#89

Todd–I get it, believe me. What *can* you afford? Could you afford five hours for now? It’s not a TON of help, but could give you some breathing room and help you develop your presence and platform on the way to bigger things.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:52 pm
Todd Jordan said
#91 Ava, you’re right. I should take the plunge once I plan out some definite items that a VA would begin on. Give someone a trial run.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:52 pm
Stacy Brice said
AVA! Are you in my head, woman?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Todd Jordan said
#89 Stacy, yes, exactly. Clear up some of the back log and get lined up for some of the future things.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Hey Todd! I hear ya – caught between the need and the budget.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
Ava Edlin said
@todd, just talking with a va or going to the AssistU site, will give you the information and questions to ask yourself that will lead to answers on what you do need help with that you may never have thought of now.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
Stacy Brice said
#93 Todd–don’t do trials. It’s kind of the business equivilent of a quickie Vegas wedding.

Take the time to choose well, and then be in it for the long haul. That will pay out better, long term.

Don’t even think to yourself, “If this doesn’t work, I can get out of it.”

You KNOW you can get out of it, but it’s not the right mindset to have from the get-go.

Make sense?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
Carol said
#86 Glenda, If you keep a running list of the things you do on a daily basis for a few days to a week. You can then look at the list and all the things you do that you don’t like to do, or don’t do well or don’t have time for, you can pass those over to your VA.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:54 pm
Patti Seipp said
Keep a pad and pencil by you and jot down things you could delegate – you will be surprised at your 2do list for a VA.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
Once you see someone do the work. You’ll have plenty that person can do for you.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Todd Jordan said
#98 Stacy, ouch. That smarted.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Ava Edlin said
stacy I’m trying to be in there. Great minds do think alike.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
Dawn said
#98 – Again, it goes back to that idea of it’s about trust. And it means to spend more time upfront. You don’t talk to a prospective VA for five minutes and then decide to work with her – just like you wouldn’t talk to a guy for five minutes and then decide to marry him (although I waive that requirement for Colin Firth)…

It’s all about process – and taking the time to make the relationship a success.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
Stacy Brice said
#102 I’m sorry, Todd! I really didn’t mean for it to hurt.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
Ava Edlin said
Todd, Stacy is very correct, if you have that attitude, a va will pick up on it and the relationship will not progress as it should. You must believe and buy in to a long term relationship with the va of your choice.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
Kyle said
#98 – Stacy is right – no trial runs. We go into a relationship with a client with the expectation that it will work and be very long term.
April 14th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
Stacy Brice said
#101… obviously spoken from experience, Liz!
April 14th, 2009 at 7:59 pm
Todd Jordan said
Based on all of that very particular feedback, is there a minimum # of hours a VA might expect to given per week, month, etc?
April 14th, 2009 at 7:59 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Todd, Darrell and I had a great talk on Easter – we talked all day, did nothing else. Part of it was about how both businesses are stuck because we can’t do everything yet we can’t afford help – in the form of a VA or otherwise. But by not getting help, neither one of us will take our business to the next level.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:00 pm
Dawn said
#109 – All VAs are different, Todd. Some may have a minimum monthly retainer, and others may work on a pay-as-you-go basis.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:00 pm
Ava Edlin said
Todd, I can’t speak for all vas but my clients are all over the place in hours used each month. My practice is taylored to clients and their needs.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:01 pm
Carol said
#109 Todd, it depends on the VA. Some VAs do pay-as-you-go and others work only on retainer and others do both.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:01 pm
Stacy Brice said
#109

Many more experienced VAs know that to really make a difference in the lives and work of their clients can’t be done in just a couple of hours/month, and won’t get involved with a client for less than 10 hours/month on retainer.

Others are fine with something more like 5/month, and some will literally do as many as you need.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:02 pm
Dawn said
#110 – and I’d also think about how much you’re spending in terms of your own resource of time doing the work yourself? What is your hourly rate? And if you’re doing these tasks at your hourly rate (that someone else could be doing), then that’s taking time away from the stuff that ONLY you can be doing. It’s almost as if the cost is doubled by you doing it – the hourly cost of your time PLUS what you’re losing out on doing.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:03 pm
Stacy Brice said
#110 Glenda…I often find that clients say they can’t afford to, when they really can, but are fearful about spending the money.

Can you really not afford to, or is that a fear?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:05 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Stacy, for the moment, there’s an “arrangement” with her, so its more about knowing how to “use” her effectively.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:06 pm
Ava Edlin said
Glenda, what were the main reason or hold outs for you and Darrell to advance?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:07 pm
Darrell said
Hi Everyone

Is copywriting something a va would do? I am no good at it.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:08 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
Stacy is having a problem getting the blog to load.

She’ll be back after this commercial break. heh heh
April 14th, 2009 at 8:08 pm
Stacy Brice said
Glenda…does the arrangement give you a set number of hours/month?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
Stacy Brice said
I’m baaaaack (on a Mac, this time!)
April 14th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
Todd Jordan said
I’m convinced then that when I contact a VA to interview, I should probably scope out the minimum I’m going to offer out.

5-10 hours/month might be a good start for me.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
Ava Edlin said
Darrell, yes some VAs do do copywriting
April 14th, 2009 at 8:10 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Ava, I guess part is financial and part is knowing who to ask for specific tasks.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:10 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
#123
Todd that sounds reasonable to me.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:11 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Hey Darrell, glad you found us!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:11 pm
Stacy Brice said
#118

Darrell, that’s a great question.

Some do, some claim to.

If you need a copywriter, you’d be better off hiring a professional copywriter than trying to get great copy from a VA who isn’t a professional copywriter.

And that’s another myth that deserves to be busted–that a client can get it all from a VA.

You *can*, but only if you’re willing to have her use other vendors to get it done.

A VA should be a client’s one-stop-shop for anything needed, but he shouldn’t expect her to do it all herself, OR that he’s going to get specific specialty services (that she doesn’t offer at the same level as the professional probably really needed).
April 14th, 2009 at 8:11 pm
Ava Edlin said
Todd, have a minimum in mind and have a list of “if you could give things away off your desk” what would they be and work from there. What things would or do keep you from doing what you love to do now?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:11 pm
Carol said
#119 Darrell, it depends on the VA. Some offer that service, some don’t.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:12 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Todd, I may have a name for you.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:13 pm
Ava Edlin said
Glenda, a good va is the rolodex for you. If there is a task she cannot do, she will have a huge rolodex to find you a supplier of that service which will point you in a new direction and lets you have the final say.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Ava Edlin said
the financial part, find a va that will work with you and within the budget you have set for yourself. I have several with a budget and we work within it.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Stacy Brice said
Glenda! I just looked at your site… and I’ll be back for more
April 14th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
#121

Stacy, no, I don’t believe number of hours were mentioned.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:16 pm
Darrell said
Any suggestions on finding a copywriter?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
#135

Thanks Stacy!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Stacy Brice said
#135

I wonder if it would help you know what to delegate if you and she made an explicit agreement about how much time she’s willing to give?

Just a thought.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
Ava Edlin said
Have you gone to Elance to solicit to find one? I know some clients have done so in the past and found some good ones.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
Stacy Brice said
#136

What sort of copy do you need written?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Heather said
Hi everyone! Glad you’re all still here – interesting reading!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Todd Jordan said
Thanks for all of the good advice.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
Ava Edlin said
Todd, hope it was helpful.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:21 pm
Stacy Brice said
#142 Todd, most welcome. If you’re on Twitter, I’m @stacybrice..feel free to let me know if you have any questions I can help with!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:21 pm
Stacy Brice said
RACHAEL!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
Heather said
DAWN!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
Darrell said
#136 I am working or revamping my website for a new audience and writing the material is painful(makes me crazy)
April 14th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
RACHAEL! DAWN!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:24 pm
Stacy Brice said
I don’t know why I’m feeling moved to tell this… but I feel so fortunate to work with amazing VAs.

I had an opportunity drop in my lap, but ONLY if I could find, buy, have imprinted, and deliver to Florida 780 hacky sack balls in about ten days.

One call to a fab VA, and a couple of emails to my graphics guy (who is not a VA posing as a graphics guy, btw) handled it all. That kinda help really is priceless.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:24 pm
Darrell said
Sorry last comment should be #140
April 14th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
Todd Jordan said
So much appreciate the advice, and also it’s a good reminder to us that we should hire experts as appropriate.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
Stacy Brice said
#147

You’re in North America? If so, I wouldn’t go looking for someone to write copy for you who isn’t a native North American English speaker.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
Heather said
#149

I’m headed to FL tomorrow – should I be on the lookout for hacky sack balls?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
Ava Edlin said
yes, having a forum to ask questions and finding someone with resources is helpful and lets you do what you love to do and do well.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:28 pm
Stacy Brice said
#151…Bravo

Another myth–VAs aren’t expert at anything.

They are..in fact, they are incredible experts at administration.

And really, that’s no small thing! If it were, no one would need their help!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
Stacy Brice said
#153…LOL No–they won’t be arriving till next week, courtesy of Heather
April 14th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
Stacy Brice said
Funny… I never thought to say exactly what I said in #155 before.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:33 pm
Cheryl Harless said
Just popping in to say hi — now that I have caught up on the conversation. ::: waving :::
April 14th, 2009 at 8:33 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Stacy mentioned having a graphics guy. That has me wondering what peeps we should have on our team who we can call on as needed.

I’m having business cards done, hopefully in time for SOBCon. But the graphics guy and I just aren’t jiving, yet. I don’t want to be an annoying customer, but I need something that truly reflects me.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:34 pm
Ava Edlin said
Stacy I thought I remember you saying to be authentic and yourself. You are doing what you have stated yourself to us last month
April 14th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
Ava Edlin said
Glenda, stick to your guns. You are the client and be the squeaky wheel.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:36 pm
Heather said
# 158

Glenda, in my experience, graphic design has emotional ties, mostly for the biz owner. If you aren’t “jiving” with the graphics person you’re using, you may want to consider looking somewhere else. Your designer should be able to understand what you want, not just hear your words.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:36 pm
Stacy Brice said
#158…I’d be happy to talk with you about what team members might be appropriate, Glenda.

As for your graphics guy…I’ve worked with enough that I’ve come to know that, for myself, when someone doesn’t get me almost immediately, it’s the wrong graphics person for me.

I know that when I’ve been in that situation, I’ve almost felt like we were speaking different languages. Does it feel that way for you, Glenda?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
Kyle said
#155 We are talking on the AU alumni call about time management and the best skills to have as a VA. How do you discuss not having a particular skill vs. knowing how to get it done?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Ava, I’m trying. BUT Don’t I need to trust he is the expert here? Actually, its getting frustrating now and time is ticking.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
Stacy Brice said
#160 Ava..I live the authenticity thing, absolutely.

I just meant I’d never said the thing about that if VAs didn’t have anything special about them, clients wouldn’t need them.

I was trying to convey (maybe badly?) that if clients had the right stuff, they could do it themselves easily, wouldn’t need help, and there would be no need/want for VAs.

Does that make sense?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:39 pm
Stacy Brice said
#164 I could call and answer that question
April 14th, 2009 at 8:40 pm
Ava Edlin said
Glenda, I completely understand. But it is true, sometimes people just don’t click. If you are truly having a tough time communicating what you want with this person, then you really do need and should find a new graphics person. He can be an expert, but he may not be the one for you.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
Stacy Brice said
#165 Glenda, he may be expert in making graphics, but he’s not the expert in YOU. I suspect your frustration is giving you that big message.

If you want to consider talking to my guy, I’m happy to share his contact info. Maybe he’ll get you–if not, you’ll know pretty quickly.

He’s gotten me from day one. I barely say anything now…what he creates is almost always better than anything I could have directed him to make for me!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
Ava Edlin said
Stacy, absolutely, I was more saying that you have been an huge inspiration to me and if it was not for you and AssistU, I would not have found the “dream” job for me.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:43 pm
Stacy Brice said
#170 Oh! Thank you, dear one! I’m so glad you’re happy and doing what feels good to you!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:43 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Heather and Stacy, the graphics guy wasn’t hand picked; he is part of the print shop. My first choice was busy. I now know I need to begin looking now for someone who gets me for when I do need graphics done. lesson learned.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:43 pm
Heather said
#164

Kyle, I try to pt PCs in the frame of mind that I am a list-reducer for them. If the things on their “list” are only the things they love and “need” to do, then I’ve done my job. As for what comes off their list, I take what I love to do and do it and manage the rest so that it gets done. I choose the skills I learn based on what interests me most, because that’s what I’ll enjoy. The rest, I can find someone else who loves it, KWIM?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:45 pm
Stacy Brice said
#172 I hear how important it is for you to feel well represented for SOBCon…is he making a logo for cards?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:48 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
ok, so what do I do? Business cards need to go out Friday back next Wednesday, and I’ll owe him for the work he has done. Give him one more shot?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:49 pm
Stacy Brice said
#164 It’s really that same education piece–doing it all vs. getting things done. If a client can’t really grok that a VA shouldn’t be expected to have ALL the skills in the world, the VA should (IMO) gently close the conversation.

What Heather said is right on, too…SHE, as a business owner, has to make choices about what’s the best use of her time, and where her talents lie.

It’s all well and good for a client to need someone who can use Dreamweaver, but if the VA isn’t good at the sort of puzzle that web work is, then it wouldn’t be a good use of her time OR talent to try to learn that and offer it as a service.

I really don’t believe in pulling the wings off a butterfly (or trying to fit a round peg into a square hole, if you prefer that analogy). There are so many ways to get things done!!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
Kyle said
#164 – Awesome! I agree with you.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
Stacy Brice said
#175 Let me ask this: If you (literally) only have one more chance, do you want to give it to him, or try someone else?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:53 pm
Carol said
#176 Right on, Stacy!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:56 pm
Stacy Brice said
Here’s a myth I want to bust:

The best use of a VA is in the execution of specific tasks.

While that’s certainly a good use of a VA’s time and skills, it’s probably not the best, or the most important.

IMO, the best/most important is being your right hand. Being the one you trust with the keys to the proverbial kingdom. Being the one who knows what you’re doing and why, and can climb into your business and your life and help you really move forward (vs. spinning your wheels).

If you have someone like that on your side–someone who has plenty of skills *and* the ready resources to get other stuff handled, you’ve got it all, baby–absolutely everything you need to rock the world.

On the other hand, if you look for a VA (or more than one) to handle specific tasks, then you only have a task-based implementer. And that’s not probably what you need most.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:56 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
stacy, I don’t know. I thought i had a clear vision of what I Wanted,but i don”t have an graphics eye.
April 14th, 2009 at 8:57 pm
Stacy Brice said
#181 are the images online somewhere where we could look at them and give you feedback?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:58 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Sorry to be monopolizing the conversation. i”ll sit back and listen now
April 14th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
Stacy Brice said
#183 –there’s plenty of room for you *and* everyone else. I want to help!
April 14th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
Stacy Brice said
So, peeps…what other myths should we bust?
April 14th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
Glenda,
Your conversation is one that everyone faces. People can learn from it by listening too.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:00 pm
Heather said
#181

Glenda, I know you’re working against the clock here, so I don’t know if this is helpful, but for the future..

Find a graphics person who gets you. Then, if you *know* you don’t have a graphics eye, talk to them in terms you are good at. Perhaps the feeling you want it to convey – do you want it soothing or exciting? Which colors speak to you, the designer should be able to add in the colors/styles that speak to yor target market. *Then*, let the designer do what they do, design, but at the same time, if you don’t love it, speak up and say why. Don’t settle.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:00 pm
JoAmme said
Hi All!

Interesting conversations!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:01 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
no stacy, I have them as pdfs
April 14th, 2009 at 9:02 pm
Carol said
This has been so much fun and enlightening. I hate to leave, but I have an early morning.

Good night, everyone!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:03 pm
Stacy Brice said
#188…If you want another eye on them, feel free to email them to me, and I’ll take a peek.
stacy@stacybrice.com
April 14th, 2009 at 9:04 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
thanks Heather, I’ve definitely learned that lesson!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:05 pm
Stacy Brice said
Goodnight, Carol — thanks for coming and for contributing to the convo!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:05 pm
Heather said
#191

You’re welcome – I hope it all works out soon!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:06 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
thanks stacy, will do. i appreciate y’all advice.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:07 pm
Patti Seipp said
Thank you Liz for a wonderful evening – I so enjoyed this experience. Thank you Stacy for so much helpful information. Good night all.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:07 pm
Cheryl Harless said
Stacy, I have a Myth for ya. Potential Clients that look at newer VAs and expect them to charge substantially less then VAs that have been in business for awhile.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:07 pm
Stacy Brice said
Goodnight, Miss Patti You’re terrific!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:09 pm
Heather said
#196

That’s a good one, Cheryl, since when I first started, I was (apparently) charging quite a lot more than some people who had been in it for years.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:10 pm
Stacy Brice said
#196 Hi, Cheryl!

Well..in general, I’m not sure that’s a myth. There are exceptions, of course, but…

People with more experience should, IMO, do things better, faster, easier… have spent more time in this specific work environment, and should have fees that are higher than new/newer VAs.

So, by extension, that would mean that it’s not unreasonable to believe that new/newer VAs will have fees that are lower than those of more experienced VAs.

I gather you see it differently?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:12 pm
Cheryl Harless said
I think the key word here is SUBSTANTIALLY
April 14th, 2009 at 9:12 pm
Stacy Brice said
Having said that–the issue *could* just as easily be that more experienced VAs haven’t raised their fees appropriately while in business.

So while it doesn’t really tell the tale–meaning clients probably shouldn’t use that as a measure of anything, I don’t think it’s unreasonable to expect to see that thought from clients.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:13 pm
Heather said
#200

Stacy, I think the problem is two-fold.

1. Each VA sets the fees that work for *them*.

2. Experienced VA’s not raising their rates.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:14 pm
Stacy Brice said
Well, again…it depends on the people involved.

If you’re new, and just starting to work with authors, and I’ve been doing it for years and am quite expert in what they need, then it wouldn’t be unreasonable to expect your fee to be SUBSTANTIALLY lower than mine, would it?

But that has to do with real experience–in the trenches, doing the work–rather than just how long I’ve been in business or how short your time in your business has been.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:14 pm
Heather said
But here’s the other thought. By the time I’m talking $$ with a client, they want to work with me, and the dollar amount is much less of an issue.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:15 pm
Stacy Brice said
#205 that’s because you show value before having the money convo, yes? So they have context for your fees being what they are?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:17 pm
Kyle said
#200 – If you are a generalist (which I am) – I think I will top out at a rate unless I add a specialty.

True or false?

I have 20+ yrs admin experience and 2 business degrees and still experience the four-hour work week syndrome from potential clients.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:18 pm
Heather said
# 206

Right. And I’m interviewing them as much as (or sometimes more than) they’re interviewing me, and I truly believe that outlook makes a difference.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:19 pm
Stacy Brice said
#207 .. or a niche.

Say more about the “Four-Hour Work Week syndrome.” Let’s bust that one!!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:19 pm
Stacy Brice said
#208 Outlook and attitude–absolutely!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:23 pm
Stacy Brice said
:::tapping the mic:::: is this thing still on?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
Kyle said
#209 – the 4-hr work week is a myth completely! People read that and expect VAs to charge $4 – $10/hour.

From my experience in HR in the corporate world, your salary plus at least 50% of that salary is your actual wage/earnings.

So, if a client wants to pay me $15/hour that means I am actually getting paid $10/hr which is in no way a living wage. Would a lawyer work for $50/hr?

The 4-hr work week sets low expectations and sticker shock for anyone looking for a virtual assistant.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
Heather said
I’m having trouble with posts going through.

Checking..
April 14th, 2009 at 9:26 pm
Heather said
OK, I guess I’m back.

#212

Kyle, how are you seeing that come up with your clients?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:26 pm
Cheryl Harless said
“Four-Hour Work Week syndrome” ::: Groan ::: I haven’t read the book so I can only speak to what I have run up against that purports to be from the book.

Great about getting the idea of a VA as a valuable tool out there to soloprenuers. But it also brings out the cheapskates and tire kickers — not a good thing (from a VA’s perspective)
April 14th, 2009 at 9:27 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Thanks Stacy and everyone!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:27 pm
Heather said
Thanks, Glenda!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:27 pm
Kyle said
#209 – But my niche can be considered people working with real brick & mortar businesses.

Just not strictly coaches, etc.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:28 pm
Stacy Brice said
#212

Clients aren’t understanding one critical thing:

Virtual Assistance was never designed to be the low-cost alternative to hiring employees, but the efficent and effective one.

Clients who don’t expect to pay part of a VA’s expenses are delusional. Of *course* that’s factored into the fee. A VA can’t afford to volunteer for her own business.

The other thing clients aren’t thinking about is how much more tax a self-employed person pays, even though many of the clients who work with VAs pay the same hefty amount of tax.

It all gets passed through–but appropriately so.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:28 pm
Kyle said
#214 – I am not seeing it with current clients – *only* potential clients who I think are price shopping.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:30 pm
Stacy Brice said
#218…run that by your mean coach, won’t you please? I feel certain she doesn’t understand right now.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:30 pm
Stacy Brice said
You’re most welcome, Glenda! Thank you for coming–you’re terrific!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:31 pm
Heather said
# 218

So what are things that you do that are different for your Brick & Mortar clients? I have 1, but they’re a restaurant and I do something highly specialized for them. I’m sure there are things that you know about that niche that many VA’s wouldn’t even think of.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:31 pm
Kyle said
#221 – certainly will.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
Heather said
#220

Oh yeah

I just consider that an opportunity to educate them and move on.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:32 pm
Cheryl Harless said
I also believe it creates the notion that Virtual Assistance is transactional, rather than relational. As you have said over and over, Stacy, it is all about the relationship.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:34 pm
Kyle said
#218 – I will clarify. My clients are entrepreneurs who work with brick & mortar businesses. Consultants, business coaches, manufacturing company, financial planners,etc.

They are not a life coach – they specifically target large corporations or small business. Which, in my mind, is a niche per se. But, my work is generalist – jack of many trades (not *all* but many).
April 14th, 2009 at 9:35 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
#226
Cheryl
You just hit my hot button.

I think all business is relationships. Thank you for saying that!!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:36 pm
Stacy Brice said
#226 another great myth to bust, Cheryl!

I think that sometimes the concept of “100% productive time,” and “paying only for the time spent working” conveys that transactional idea to some clients.

And it’s good that there are still people in the world who want to work with those clients, in transactional arrangements.

I’d love for clients to understand that they’d get ever-so-much more value from working with VAs if they wanted to work with VAs in long-term and collaborative relationships.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:36 pm
Heather said
#227

See, I think that’s great! It’s like you’re a juggler who can keep 5 balls in the air instead of the usual 3.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:37 pm
Stacy Brice said
#227… ok–that’s a niche
April 14th, 2009 at 9:37 pm
Stacy Brice said
Liz–no wonder I love you! I just had my hands read, and for me, the juice is always in relationships. That wasn’t a surprise to me…but it was cool to know it’s in my hands!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:38 pm
Stacy Brice said
#230 another great use for hacky sack balls, btw
April 14th, 2009 at 9:38 pm
Heather said
Did we already cover the “being instantly available to your clients 24/7″ thing?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:39 pm
Heather said
#233

OK, Now I must contact myself and somehow get a hacky sack ball,
April 14th, 2009 at 9:41 pm
Stacy Brice said
#234 Nope. And yet *another* great myth. Do you want to bust it?

#235 I may end up with extras–in which case I’ll send you one!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:41 pm
Kyle said
#233 – Andrew is saving one for me.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
Kyle said
#234 – my clients *do not* expect me to be available 24/7. I am great at setting that boundary now after working with a mean coach and putting assessment questions into place.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
Cheryl Harless said
#234 EEEeeeeuuuu! I started this business, in part to get AWAY from micro-managers!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:44 pm
Stacy Brice said
#237 Oh? He’s doling out MY balls?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:44 pm
Heather said
Well, I don’t know that I’m the best one to bust it because it never crossed my mind that I *would* be. That said, I ensure my clients know that, and I also do everything in my power to make sure they wouldn’t need to contact me like that. But, as I say over and over again in my interview process, I don’t work with people who are constantly coming from a place of emergency, and my clients don’t *want* to live without me, but they certainly could if needed. As a side note, that does make it easy to go on vacation!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:45 pm
Kyle said
#240 Yes, because I loved his presentation at Jim Bunch’s CA event and we are co-guesting on Laura Kennedy’s tribute to virtual assistants on Thursday. He likes me. tee hee
April 14th, 2009 at 9:46 pm
Stacy Brice said
#240 Well, what’s not to like?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:48 pm
Cheryl Harless said
I think the 24/7 mentality goes hand in hand with seeing a VA as an employee rather than as a partner in business.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:49 pm
Kyle said
#240 From my perspective – I think I am very entertaining. As do my clients.

I have incorporated the phrase, “I work with the whole person, not just the arm or leg.” Meaning that I want to know my client, my client’s family, their dog, their likes dislikes – that is a relationship.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:49 pm
Stacy Brice said
#241

I would want clients to know that while they may think they want an always-available Virtual Assistant, what they really need is a VA with a great business foundation, high standards, and in part–work hours that allow her a life outside of work.

All work and no play (or rest) makes Jill a very dull VA (and I mean that as not sharp and together).

Buying a number of hours/month does not entitle a client to instant access–unless the VA has set her practice up that way. And again, if I were a client, I would question the smarts of working with someone like that.

Five words: Burned out and you’re stuck.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:51 pm
Heather said
#244

Which, IMHO, begins with the interview process when the VA allows themselves to be interviewed just like an employee would be.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:53 pm
Stacy Brice said
#247 It actually begins long before that–usually when a VA launches her business without putting a foundation under it because she doesn’t know how to do that.

It’s really not enough to be a great assistant. There’s so much more to being a successful business owner with a VA practice.
April 14th, 2009 at 9:54 pm
Kyle said
#247 – Agreed. I made it very clear to the last two new clients that I deliver Meals on Wheels on TH and take Fridays for my business or completely off.

They were like – awesome!
April 14th, 2009 at 9:55 pm
Kyle said
#247 – Cabana Boy
April 14th, 2009 at 9:57 pm
Stacy Brice said
#250 Bingo
April 14th, 2009 at 9:57 pm
Stacy Brice said
Any other myths we should bust before we call it a night (or ask Liz to)?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:57 pm
Kyle said
#250 – think I can patent that idea or concept?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:57 pm
Heather said
#248

I agree, but I think there is a “point of no return” at the interview process. This is where the client first gets a sense of what your working relationship will be like.

Does the VA just show up and answer questions? Or are they committed, involved, and full of questions of their own?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:58 pm
Stacy Brice said
#249 It’s amazing how well those business standards work, isn’t it?
April 14th, 2009 at 9:59 pm
Heather said
CABANA BOY!
April 14th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
Kyle said
#254 – I am a full participant in the process. Ask and answer….

#355 – Yes, once you finally get really smart and know that you are better off without the desperation and put the solid foundation down.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:00 pm
Heather said
#255

Yes, once you realize that they are *yours* and not just the ones other people tell you to have. It’s not like there’s a set of OSFA standards.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:01 pm
Stacy Brice said
#254 Absolutely.

Me? I’d never consider a VA who wanted to be led.

I always think about any professional whose services I want. I never tell THEM how to do what they do. I just get out of the way and let them do it.

For me, it’s the same for VAs. If a VA is genuinely an expert at administration, and the client isn’t, the client should back off and let the VA lead the consultation/interview, and let the client know how she can help.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:02 pm
Stacy Brice said
#258.. Dunno.. I bet I have standards you should consider that you’ve never thought of
April 14th, 2009 at 10:03 pm
Heather said
#259

Yeah, I remember before I honed my interview process (waaay back in the beginning) I used to send clients “discussion topics” and they were always surprised.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:03 pm
Kyle said
#254 – That is where I have a problem with individuals saying that if you don’t agree with them or do things the way they think you should, ou are not a business owner.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:04 pm
Heather said
#260

Probably, like keeping my mouth shut..

And that’s not my point. It’s what I tell my mommy friends about parenting books and advice. Consider it all, but only *use* what fits you.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:06 pm
Heather said
#262

See, I think by thinking for yourself you *are* being a good biz owner. Not that you shouldn’t consider what they say, but let’s not be lemmings, right?
April 14th, 2009 at 10:06 pm
Stacy Brice said
#263 I would never advocate you keep your mouth shut!

The business has to be yours. And the fit with a client has to be mutual.

There’s so much more at play than “can you do the work? good–let’s do it.”
April 14th, 2009 at 10:10 pm
Stacy Brice said
#262 and 264 Never check your brains at the door–no matter who’s speaking/teaching on the other side.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:10 pm
Heather said
#265

I think some VA’s sell themselves short with the client fit bit. Poking holes in your foundation (gratuitous use of lingo ) to make a client want to work with you is *not* the same as a mutual fit.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:12 pm
Kyle said
#267 – Brought up an image of VA on pogo stick on a swimming pool cover!
April 14th, 2009 at 10:12 pm
Stacy Brice said
#267 No, it’s not. AND… I think they sometimes forget the authenticity piece. It’s really hard to put on a costume for someone when you first meet, then remember to put it on before every interaction to cover the deceit.

Additionally, it’s much better to be hated for who you are, than loved for who you aren’t.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:13 pm
Heather said
#268

Funny story for another day, there is an *actual* hole in my living room floor.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:14 pm
Heather said
#269

re: Authenticity

Do you think it’s actually easier for some people than others? Not in a malicious way, but just because they aren’t used to being themselves?
April 14th, 2009 at 10:14 pm
Stacy Brice said
#270 !!!!!!
April 14th, 2009 at 10:15 pm
Kyle said
#270 – Husband’s surprise birthday party – a guest shot a hole in my living room floor when everyone was showing off their guns.

Now, see I have lots of entertainment value.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:16 pm
Heather said
#272

Maybe I’ll save that for a few months.. say, September?
April 14th, 2009 at 10:16 pm
Kyle said
I am signing off – this has been very educational as always.

Thanks!
April 14th, 2009 at 10:16 pm
Heather said
G’night, Kyle!
April 14th, 2009 at 10:17 pm
Stacy Brice said
#271 Absolutely.

Our world teaches us to fit in from the start. People generally aren’t taught that it’s ok for them to really be themselves.

And at work? You have to be who and what your employer wants, or risk losing your job.

So now you’ve started a business–it makes sense, doesn’t it, that you think you have to be who the client wants you to be, and do what the client says for you to do.

It’s not easy for them to be who they really are, that’s true. But once they get how much they’ve lost in life by not being authentic, and once they try it and realize the world doesn’t collapse around them, it gets easier and easier.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:18 pm
Stacy Brice said
Goodnight, Kyle! You rock!
April 14th, 2009 at 10:19 pm
Kyle said
shucks! night
April 14th, 2009 at 10:20 pm
Heather said
#277

And I think being comfortable in your skin has a lot to do with it.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:22 pm
Stacy Brice said
#280

True, dat.

Know who you are, and be that–every day of your life.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:24 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
Looks like the night is drawing to a close.

Thank you, Stacy!!

Thank you everyone for coming!!
April 14th, 2009 at 10:25 pm
Stacy Brice said
Thinking about that–and in the context of our chat tonight, really, I think both people have to be comfy with who they are. Or, the more comfy they are, the more likely they are to succeed in this sort of relationship, long-term.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:25 pm
Heather said
Thank you Liz and Stacy! Great myth busting!
April 14th, 2009 at 10:25 pm
Stacy Brice said
Thanks for coming Heather and everyone else who might be reading along.

Thank you, Liz, for having me!

Goodnight, everyone
April 14th, 2009 at 10:26 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
Heather,
You guys did all of the work. I was just here to learn.
April 14th, 2009 at 10:26 pm
ME Liz Strauss said
SUCCESS!!
April 14th, 2009 at 10:27 pm
Cheryl Harless said
Heather well said. So many people are not comfortable being themselves. And we are so often told we should be something other than what we are. So being authentic can be difficult for many.

On the other hand when you are trying to genuinely change something about yourself you often have to “Fake it until you make it” …as I was recently told by another brilliant VA.
April 14th, 2009 at 11:19 pm
Lori-ann said
Hello,

Looks like I missed a great session!
April 15th, 2009 at 3:14 pm
Glenda Watson Hyatt said
Popping back in with an update with the business cards. The graphics guy and I had a sufficient meeting of the minds this morning. I’m about to give him the go ahead to print!

Thank you everyone for giving me the strength to go after what I wanted and not to settle for less.

Next step: find my own graphics guy!

Liz Strauss at Successful Blog

Thinking, writing, business ideas … You're only a stranger once.

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