Where do you find virtual assisting clients???
/It's Work at Home Wednesday. That means we discuss all things work at home related. This month I am focusing on virtual assisting since that is how I started my own business, as a VA.
If you want to learn more about what a VA is, click here.
Today we are going to talk about where to find clients. This seems to be the $10 million question.
So I thought I would lay out a few places I have found clients.
1. Face to face.
Just because you will be working virtually doesn't mean you can't meet face to face. Print up some business cards with your name, website and contact information.
If you know someone launching a business ask them who is handling their marketing. If you see a new business opening in the office park next to the supermarket, pop in and see if they need bookkeeping.
If you want to build a client base you have to get used to selling yourself.
Work on your elevator pitch. If you're not familiar with what that means, basically you need to come up with a 15-second presentation on what you do. For example I might say, "Hi, I'm Lydia. I blog about frugal living, but I also create content for websites and social media campaigns. Let's chat."
2. Email a blogger.
Is there a blogger you love and you think you want to work with? Email that person and see if they need an assistant. Tell her or him how qualified you are and what services you offer?
Of course you want to tailor that email to them. Don't just copy and paste something generic. Offer them something authentic.
The worst they can do is say no.
3. Upwork.
I got my first clients through Elance, an online freelance market where online entrepreneurs can find work. Elance has merged with another company to form Upwork. I don't know how Upwork will work, but it can't be a bad place to start.
However, these websites can be extremely competitive so make sure your proposals are thoughtful.
4. Find fellow VAs.
There is no end to the number of VA related Facebook groups out there. I am part of a couple and they have been great in helping me find clients and contacts. On many occasions these VA groups contain members whose businesses have boomed and they are looking to hire and expand.
Also, there are members who meet a potential client that isn't a good fit or they just don't have time for right now and they will refer that client to another member of the group.
Networking is great, so start building those relationships.
What about you? Where do you find client?