virtual assistant clients
Choosing the right virtual assistant clients Even if you are eager to secure a new client, but you know that you may not be able to undertake a particular client request properly, I recommend you don't take on that client. You are doing yourself a favour and the VA industry a favour. If you take on role that you can't fulfil properly you may be damaging the way the VA industry is perceived. Don't just turn the client down and let him go, pass him on to another VA that you may know in your area that is more suited to the task at hand or pass the prospect on to a VA network where another VA can assist. I have done this on numerous occasions and the prospect was always so grateful. Know when to say no to prospective virtual assistant clients Apart from the above where it's wise to turn down a client if you know you cannot perform the task at hand, it's also wise to turn down a prospective client if you know you simply don't have the time to assist him. After a while you get into a habit of knowing how busy each week is going to be and if you can slot in an ad hoc client job. If it's a long term client job and you simply are too busy to take on new 'permanent' clients, then it's better for you and the industry to pass the client on to another VA. Know when to get rid of a client Yes that's right. If you have a client that stresses you out too much or takes up too much of your time bothering you on the phone checking on your progress too much or in some cases turning up to your door too often, it's time to get rid of that kind of client. Also in time you may develop a preferred niche and you may no longer prefer certain type of work. These clients can be referred on to other VAs. Stick to deadlines I know that all clients think they are the only client you have and expect their work done immediately. I always stick to my clients' deadlines and I always strive for quick turnarounds and of course great work output. I secured a client through another client's great word of mouth. He loved my work output, work ethic, fast turnaround and recommended me to someone else. Don't undercharge I know when you're starting with a client you do not have a reputation with them and you can undercharge, but make sure you raise your rates accordingly the following year. Undercharging undervalues your virtual assistant business and the whole industry. Make proposals to virtual assistant clients for further work ideas You may have a client where you see there is scope for further work to be performed for them. Don't be afraid to follow this up with them and make a proposal on how to streamline an area of their business, make changes to existing procedures, anything to improve their business. They will be glad of the feedback and this will mean more billable hours for you. Stay professional Try to stay professional in your virtual assistant business and don't get too personal with clients. Every client relationship is different, but try to keep things business like. Even if you have issues with the client try to address them in a professional manner. I know one of my clients drove me mad with his constant calling and I had to be stern and I addressed the issue with him. He now has backed off completely for the past couple of years and we have a great working relationship. Multiple client incomes As a freelancer it's ideal to have multiple clients and not to rely on one or even two clients. If your main client suddenly does not need your services any longer you may be in a bit of trouble. I lost a big client of mine recently as he retired and that was a surprise. Also depending on your country, freelancers should have multiple clients or they may be deemed employees if they only work for one client. Check your country specfic information on this area. A lot of virtual assistants also have multiple sources of income, not just multiple client incomes. See extra income page for other sources of income that may be of interest to you.
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