[Jackie Nees]

More people than ever before are starting part-time businesses while still keeping their full-time jobs. Not surprisingly, this can be quite a challenge. Check out our article for some great tips on managing your time and planning for success while managing two jobs at once.
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[MrsHovey]

Thanks for the great article, Jackie!
I have recently started a business designing and making home decor textiles, and I find that the number one thing that helps me stay sane and productive is good planning. If I plan a few hours in evenings or on the weekends when my husband is at work, I can get quite a bit taken care of. Because I know my time is short, I use it well!
I also find that communication is incredibly important--if my husband knows that I need a certain amound of time after my regular job to do some sewing, he can plan accordingly as well. If I am up front with my clients about the amount of time it will take me to complete a project, they are much happier than if I make a promise I cannot keep.
I hope you get more clients very quickly so you do not have to continue the juggling act for too long.

[Jackie Nees]

Thanks for the great comment! The great news is that I was able to finally quit my job last month after getting a couple more clients! I am now running my business full time and I LOVE IT!

I agree, communication is so important. There are still times when I have to do things in the evening, either working on a project or attending a conference call and by having good communication with my husband he can plan accordingly and take care of our daughter while I do what I need to do.

Glad you enjoyed the article!
Jackie

[queen]

Jackie,

I am thinking of exploring the VA business having just lost my job a few weeks ago. My delima is that I don't know where to start in getting my first client. Do you have any suggestion for one who is just thinking about getting started.

Best wishes with your VA business.

Thanks.
Queen

[Jackie Nees]

Hi Queen,

Congratulations on considering the VA industry. My advice to finding your first client is to ask yourself who you know. Is there anyone through your old job or connections you have that could use your services? Also, visit Virtual Assistant Forums there are a ton of great resources on getting started and what you need to do before you start your business. I relied on this website (and still do) a lot when I was first considering being a VA.

Also, while you're there, be sure to look around and check out the websites of the VAs on that site. This will give you an idea of what everyone else is doing and the kinds of services that are being offered.

I hope this helps point you in the right direction. Please let me know if there's anything else I can do to help and good luck to you!

Jackie

[vlitz]

Hello Jackie,

I just recently, in fact, within the last few minutes joined the OA.
Your article caught my eye for a couple of reasons. One, I am interested in in starting my own virtual assistant company and the second reason is you have a full time job just as I do.
So, my question is how do you balance both and family time? I have no doubt that it can be done.
So what type of virtual assistant services do you provide?
Look forward to hearing from you.

Vicky

[AliciaLive]

I have a full time EA job as well as serve as a VA on the weekends and nights. On the weekend and night are busy for me. I only have three clients that I am doing some work for. Some clients I am a traveling assistant where I meet them at there events and assist with there needs. I found that it works for me. Right now I have a general contract (that I got from staples) in place, but I want to originalize my contract (if that makes since) Does any have any suggestions (contract template on Windows). Or any other suggestions.

[SydniCH]

Thanks for the great article Jackie! I recently wrote a post on my blog about making the transition from full-time employment to full-time virtual assistant.

Making The Transition to Virtual Assistant | Executive Assistant To Virtual Assistant!

Perhaps this will be useful to others!

And, welcome to the VA Ranks! I started my Virtual Assistance business over 2 1/2 years ago and would be happy to help you in any way I can.

Best regards,

Sydni

*************************************************
Sydni Craig-Hart
Co-Founder, Craig Hart Consulting, LLC
Founder, Executive Assistant -> Virtual Assistant!

Visit www.EAtoVA.com for a copy of my FREE Special
Report, “The Liberated Executive Assistant:
How to Break Free From The Corporate
Grind and Become Your Own Boss!”

[SydniCH]

Hi Alicia,

That's a great question you asked about contracts for your clients. I know of two resources. One is IVAA, the International Virtual Assistants Association. Once you become a member, you gain access to the file cabinet, which has a few different contracts, plus a host of other useful forms and templates. Check them out at International Virtual Assistants Association.

The other resource is the Virtual Assistance Chamber of Commerce. They have quite a few forms that can be purchased inexpensively and that will prove useful in setting up your business. You'll find them at Virtual Assistant Business Forms Templates Contracts Guides.

Hope that helps!

Best,

Sydni


*************************************************
Sydni Craig-Hart
Co-Founder, Craig Hart Consulting, LLC
Founder, Executive Assistant -> Virtual Assistant!

Visit www.EAtoVA.com for a copy of my FREE
Special Report, “The Liberated Executive Assistant:
How to Break Free From The Corporate Grind
and Become Your Own Boss!”