Virtual Assistant Profiles

I had the opportunity to connect with Michelle Church, owner of Virtually Distinguished currently in Atlanta, GA. From reading the many posts in her two blogs, it is clear that Michelle has a very positive attitude and as well as a “wind beneath your wings” approach to servicing her clients.  I particularly liked the post on her Virtually Speaks Blog about a mistake she made with a WordPress blog she created.   Two things impressed me about this, the tenacity she demonstrated as she worked through the problem until it was completely resolved (learning lessons along the way) and that she not only posted it to her blog, she created a category entitled “Mistakes”.  That to me proves that Michelle is someone who is completely honest with herself and her clients.  I asked her what have become my usual set of questions and here are her responses.

Why did you become a VA?  Why do you continue being a VA?

I became a VA as a result of downsizing from a major corporation and the need to be independent.  When I learned about the VA business, the skills needed, it was such a perfect fit…I figured I had experience to compliment it and it was time to take a risk in becoming an entrepreneur. I did not want to remain dependent on a major corporation that could let me go at a moments notice regardless of how well I performed.  I continue to be a VA…because I absolutely love it.  I love the relationships that have grown with the clients I have had for the past 4 years.  I love the partnerships that have been built and the possibilities of what the next level of my business can become.  Most importantly – I love my independence and the ability to control my business life.

Do you have a niche?

I don’t really have a niche.  I have tried to figure that out.  If anything my niche is working with a high profile, highly intensive style of entrepreneurs…those that have no patience for details…they like to provide me with enough information for me to run with tasks and figure the rest out. My primary clients are a TV show host, financial strategist, author, and two coaches….

What lessons have you learned since being a VA?

I have learned to be more diligent…to step out of my comfort zone in learning new things.  I have learned that we always have to stay a step ahead and most importantly stay connected to new technologies.  I have learned that I can accomplish whatever I choose if I am positive and willing to do the work needed.

What characteristics do you most admire in your top clients?

I love their drive to make it happen.  I respect the trust they have in me and my abilities to serve them.  My clients are people that have been successful in other places/careers and their businesses are an extension of their skills.  I love their creativity and passion for their businesses and clients.

What characteristics do your top clients admire in you?

I have been told it is my professionalism, tenacity, skill set and critical thinking.  They often ask my advice on their marketing efforts and appreciate my ability to complete tasks with little direction.

How do you stay organized, or what organization tips do you have?

I put the majority of my tasks in a calendar so that they can remind me.  I also keep notebooks of notes when I speak live with clients.  Start each day with a to do list.

Do you have any hobbies? Have these hobbies created professional opportunities for you?

My hobby was working on computers and for sure it lead to starting this business and the enhancement of my skills.

Has the present economy helped or hurt your business?

Yes, it hurt with a few of my main clients…but I did get a few new clients as well so it basically balanced out.

How would your clients describe you?

Professional, smart, tenacious, detail oriented, attentive, creative.

How would your friends describe you?

Aggressive, nurturing, sensitive

How would your parents describe you?

No nonsense, sensitive, loner

What service do you provide that is unique?

Good question, something I struggle with is my uniqueness…not really sure what that is yet.  I think it is the attention that I give to my clients ..at least that’s what they say….Most of them have had other  VAs…I just think it’s a connection that occurs between us.

How do you really feel about Social Media?

I absolutely love it…I enjoy meeting people that I may not have met because they are in other cities, countries

Do you have a Virtual Assistant?

Not currently, but I have had one…goal to get one in the next  months.

What is your favorite VA resource or network?

IVAA, Minority VA, Virtual Assistant forums

What advice would you give a new VA?

To plan, be purposeful, be open..seek advice from a mentor or coach that is or has been a VA

Do you use subcontractors?

Yes, I have…but currently not doing it..but it is a plan for the near future