Listen to the interview with Trena Stubbs

I thoroughly enjoyed speaking with Trena Stubbs, owner of Apex Virtual Solutions. She also shared some great tips and advice for her fellow VAs. Apex Virtual Solutions is a multi-VA firm located in Georgia, but Trena is also focusing her attention on coaching VAs as well.

In our interview, Trena mentioned a cause she supports and I wanted to list it here for anyone who is interested in checking them out. The Atlanta Children’s Shelter website is www.atlantachildrensshelter.org

My interview with Renee Shupe, Chief Redhead at Redhead Business Solutions, was both fun and informative.

Renee is wonderful to talk to and truly a wealth of information on the topics of Marketing and anything WordPress. You can also find her blogging with Business Darlings as their resident “Marketing Darling”. I hope you enjoy this fun filled interview!

In her interview Renee mentioned a charity that she feels strongly about called “Raise A Reader” you can find their website here.

The two books she recommends are Rework by Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson, Founders of 37Signals and The Wealthy Freelancer by Steve Slaunwhite, Pete Savage and Ed Gandia.

Jeannine Clontz is considered a pioneer in the Virtual Assistant Industry.  At the time of this interview she was the President of the International Virtual Assistant Association. Jeannine not only runs successful businesses of her own but volunteers as well. She is the owner of a multi-VA firm called Accurate Business Services and she also founded Virtual Assistant Business Coaching to coach and mentor VAs at any phase of their business. While she was looking to publish her book, Entrepreneurial Freedom she decided to form her own publishing company Biz-E Press.

In our interview Jeannine mentions a book she is currently reading, The New Rules of Marketing and PR by David Meerman Scott.  I found a great review of the book here at the Conversation Agent.

Why did you become a VA? I became a VA to for several reasons. I have always wanted to own my business, I totally love the flexibility of working from home (although it is definitely hard work). I love and enjoy the administrative field, so it only made sense that I joined in on this great journey that is being a VA.

Why do you continue to be a VA? Well this is kind of a tricky question for me as I have just started my journey. However I am confident that I will stick to being a VA as the field is growing and the awareness is spreading, as long as I continue to do my homework and take my business and clients seriously I will be very successful.

How did you choose your company name? My company name is completely out of the ordinary, it’s actually my husband’s nickname. When I first decided to start my business finding a name was a struggle for me and one day as I sat down trying to brainstorm he jokingly said “why don’t you call it Dembo Inc” and I thought hmmm that can actually work. In order to make the name a little “search friendly” I added “VA Services”. The funny part about that is when I introduced my company to a close friend of mines she realized that the initials spelled out DIVAS – I love it…although I haven’t started using this name I do plan to do so when I am at a more comfortable spot with my brand awareness.

What lessons have you learned since being a VA? I have learned that I can never stop learning – Being a VA is not as simple as it may sound it requires discipline and focus. It also requires a “backbone” as you must be strong sometimes. Being a VA is an important resposibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Do you have a niche? Do you provide any unique services? My niche is in the Food and Beverage industry I want to service catering companies, sports bars, small restaurants and all other small to mid-size businesses around the F&B field.

I am bilingual and I provide translation services French/English

How do you prefer to communicate with clients? Phone, email, chat, combo? Communication with my clients is a very important part of our relationship so I leave the choice up to them. However I can say that I tend to send out more emails than anything else.

How do you stay organized? Do you have any organization tips? Organization is one of the most important aspects of my business, I have calendars, time management software, everything is written down in my planner no matter how big or small. I keep strict files and pay attention to every detail. My suggestion would be to write everything down in a planner no matter how good your memory is when you are working with several clients you tend to forget things.

Do you have any hobbies? Have these hobbies created professional opportunities for you? My very first job was as a bartender – I worked at the bar for 3 years and since than I have had a passion for mixing drinks. I am working on getting my personal bar in my house, I would love to get to a “mixologist” level. My hobby has not created a professional opportunity yet but I am sure it will eventually bring me several potential clients.

How would your family and friends describe you? My friends and family describe me as a “mama bear” I am very protective of my two daughters. I am usually described as a “go getter” I see something I want and I don’t rest until I can figure out how to make it possible. I am a strong willed person. They would also describe me as the resident “counselor” I am always the go to person when someone needs a good listener. Everybody says that I am passionate about my work and hobby and take both very seriously

How would your clients describe you? Reliable, I am always there and on time when I am called upon. I am a hard worker and a perfictionist. I will keep at it until it is just right and if I can’t get it right I will find someone who can and will.

How do you feel about social media? Social media can work once you figure out the right way to network. It’s not always about marketing yourself but sometimes about making new acquaintances and gaining their trust.

What do you do when you need to relax or escape? I listen to music – I am a big fan of reggae music more specifically Lover’s Rock. My kids help me relax at times just spending time with them laughing and talking is a good escape for me.

Do you have any causes that are special to you? Why are they special? I do, the fight against breast cancer is very important to me as my grandmother past away at a very young age with breast cancer, my mom, who is also my best friend is a high risk patient so I will continue to fight for a cure.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Darlene Victoria Gonzalez, owner of True Harmony Media and host of “A Virtual Perception” and “Your Blooming” podcasts.

Darlene talks about her start as a VA and her transition into her new business focus which is podcasting and multimedia project support.

She also shares some of her past challenges, successes and what she is up to now.  She makes mention of the book she is currently reading and as promised, here is the link to a review by Sue Jackson, a freelance writer.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Serita Diana, Owner of List 2 Close Assistant about how much she enjoys her decision to become a Virtual Assistant and especially working with Real Estate professionals. With her hearty laugh and great sense of humor I am sure you will enjoy listening to Serita share her story.

Back in June of this year, Darlene Victoria, Owner of True Harmony Media interviewed me for her “A Virtual Perception” Podcast series.  I have edited the interview down to a short snippet here.  You can listen to the whole interview here on her website A Virtual Perception. Darlene has interviewed some really well known people in not only the world of Virtual Assistance but the business world at large. I was honored by her request to devote an episode to me.

Not only did I enjoy being interviewed it re-sparked my interest in producing podcasts myself.  I had been involved in podcast production earlier this year with one of my former clients and had been dying to do it for myself.  I have my first interview scheduled for next week and hope to post the finished product by next Friday. Serita Diana, owner of List 2 Close Assistance, has agreed to be recorded for my maiden production.

I must admit I enjoyed the preparation to jump from written blog posts to audio one.  I have been working late into the night on several occasions and loving every minute of it.  So if you get a chance tell me what you think of my new look and check back to listen to my podcast interviews of fellow Virtual Assistants.

Why did you become a VA?

I love assisting others. It has always been passion of mine. After giving 5 years to the corporate arena in Boston, I decided to venture out to provide administrative services on my own turf. I always had an entrepreneur mindset and it was only a matter of time that I would put my love for assisting and creating together to create a business.

Why do you continue to be a VA?

It’s an excellent way to meet new people, learn new things and to also have time for family. I enjoy every minute of it !

How did you choose your company name?

My husband came up with the name. I knew I wanted something feminine and also explained the busines in just a few words. So The Task Lady seemed perfect!

What lessons have you learned since being a VA?

I have learned a varitey of things in such a short period of time. Some of the few things that I have learned is to multitask effectively. Prioritize what is most important and to always follow up with clients. People enjoy knowing that you are taking care of things as best as you can. Bust most importantly, don’t ever take on more than you can handle. It is always best to do an excellent job than it is to do a mediocre job.

Do you have a niche? Do you provide any unique services?

I have recently added collage creation, digital scrapbooking and photo scanning/storage to my design services. I have come to realize that there is a great demand and need to assist people in storing old pictures and memories to disc and to also create memorable storybooks which can be preserved for years to come. Creating Collages is also a great love of mine. It is an excellent way to create inexpensive art.

How do you prefer to communicate with clients?

I am very flexible when it comes to communication. My main objective is to make the process as easy as possible. I can be reached by Phone, email, chat, etc.

How do you stay organized?

Organization is a must to any successful business. I have an excellent Smartphone that keeps me up to date and on point. I also have a large memo board that hangs above me desk which I use to display important dates. I also make it a priority to clean out my work area every Saturday morning so clutter will not take over my life.

Do you have any organization tips?

Invest in a cute memo board or create your owner. It is super easy to do. There are tons of DIY videos on YouTube. Also, create a filling system. It helps keep items together in an organized manner. Organization only works well when you make it a priority of yours. Don’t allow a home office to go in dissarray.

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

I am a design fanatic. I eat, think and sleep design. My home is my canvas.  I am  always creating and re-creating. I am big on making old things look new again.  I recently made a headboard which I will soon display on my design blog that I am in the process of creating. It took forever to make but it is super cute ! Who said designing a home or a space had to cost an arm and a leg?

How would your friends describe you?

Creative, girly, loving , a go getter with an entrepreneur spirit.

How would your family describe you?

Passionate, a sponge for knowledge, creative

How would your clients describe you?

Focused, driven, a multitasker, reliable and skilled

How do you feel about social media? Do you have any social media success stories?

Social media is a highly effective tool to getting prospective customers and current customers to stay informed about your business. It is imperative that every business has some form of social media platform in which they are apart of. People love to stay connected and informed. It is a cost effective way to advertise as well.

What advice would you give a new VA?

Remain resilant and steadfast. The beginning stages will be tough but anything that is worth doing will require strong conviction and determination. Believe in yourself and your business. You are your #1 fan.

Do you subcontract to other VAs?

No, but I would like to.

Since becoming a VA have you changed your offerings based on new skills you obtained since you started your own business?

I am always in search of  ways to re-invent the wheel.

What do you do when you need to relax or escape?

Music is my getaway. I love Jazz, I appreciate smooth R&B and truly find inspiration in Neo-soul. Music always finds a way to calm my troubles, ease my fears and uplift my spirit.

Have you ever had to overcome any major obstacles in your life to get where you are today?

Having a premature son that was born 3 months too early was by far  the biggest obstacles of my life. Thought it was difficult to experience, we were able to persevere. Sebastian is and will always be a true testament that a higher power truly exists. All things are possible when we believe in Him.

Do you have a role model; are you a role model for anyone?

I have always admired strong women who are forcing the world around them to change. I have recently gained a true appreciation for Oprah. She is a genius when it comes to business and I have learned so much from her both on a business and personal level.

Where do you see yourself personally in 5 to 10 years?

I see myself as elevating to a level that I have never gone before. I will be far more educated, financially well, Spiritually in tact and blooming creatively.  There is truly an art to dreaming and believing. The results are mind blowing when coupled with a little bite of faith. I am taking steps every day to reaching these goals.

Where is your favorite place in the world, why?

Home is my favorite place in the world.  There is tons of love here; I enjoy being with my husband and Sebastian. The things that we love, the pictures that we have taken and peace found within is what I love about our space.

Reading any interesting books, what have you learned?

The Kite Runner – the different struggles around the world.

What are the first things you discuss with a client looking to start or augment a social media campaign?

I always want to know the objectives. What are the goals?

Is social media a must for EVERY type of business?  Are there some industries that would not benefit?

Absolutely! Social Networking does not discriminate. It is an avenue and if used effectively, possibilities for success become endless.

Why should an entrepreneur or business owner hire a VA to manage their campaigns?

It is a cost effective alternative to the traditional employee. There is not cost for equipment, benefits and supply. The work is completed just as well if not better! Studies have shown that people perform best when they are in a space that they love!

Why did you become a VA?

I enjoy performing administrative tasks, but want a variety from working for the same one client every day.

Why do you continue to be a VA?

I enjoy the challenge of learning a new client and helping them grown their businesses.

How did you choose your company name?

I actually couldn’t think of a name and wanted to brand myself, so I choose just my name. I actually have an alternate company name I just selected OnDutyVA, but I haven’t rebranded everything yet.

What lessons have you learned since being a VA?

I pick my clients. They interview me, but I choose to do their work, just as much as they choose me.

Do you have a niche? Do you provide any unique services?

I am a virtual assistant that specializes in social media marketing. My services range from teaching my clients how to manage their social media accounts, to the maintenance of their accounts.

What characteristics do you admire in your top clients?

Honesty, they have a valuable service, they are in their work because they are passionate, not because they are greedy.

What do your clients and colleagues tell you they admire in you?

Honesty, Determination, Drive, Intelligence

How do you prefer to communicate with clients? Phone, email, chat, combo?

Email

How do you stay organized?  Do you have any organization tips?

I use folders in my email to keep all my clients assignments organized. I keep all the activities I need to complete marked as unread.

How would your friends describe you?

Smart and determined

How would your family describe you?

A workaholic

How would your clients describe you?

Smart, Intuitive, dependable, goal oriented

What advice would you give a new VA?

Talk to others about the industry and do your research. Don’t low ball your rates to get your 1^st client

Do you use subcontractors?

Sometimes.  I have a VA that works for me on a regular basis on my clients Twitter accounts.

What are the first things you discuss with a client looking to start or augment a social media campaign?

What is their product? Determine the objective, then define strategy.

Is social media a must for EVERY type of business?  Are there some industries that would not benefit?

Social Media is a plus, not a requirement for some businesses. I think all businesses can use social media, but defining a strategy that gets results is difficult with some.

How do you gauge the success of your social media efforts?

Initially, I gauge success my new connections, comments, conversation…. After time, these connections will turn into customers.

Do you offer your clients different levels of social media services?

I do offer a range of services, but also make sure they understand their level of commitment will effect the outcome.

What are some of the components of a social media campaign that can be overlooked by someone who thinks they can handle a campaign by themselves?

They are too salesy usually. In some cases, never salesy. They also don’t grow their network enough to make an impact.

Why should an entrepreneur or business owner hire a VA to manage their campaigns?

Because a VA is experienced, focused and impartial. They see things and opportunities the business owner might not, because they are too focused on their own thoughts. Often, what the client wants, is not always best when it comes to social media.

How important is it to maintain a blog?  What are the hidden benefits?

Blogging is key for most industries. Its another method for driving repeat traffic to your website. Eventually, those reading the blog will click on the other tabs on the website and learn more about the clients’ services.

How often should you post to a blog?

A minimum of once a week to see real results.

How do you feel about free blog content websites?

The content needs to have some of the clients perspective involved so the reader can connect with them on a personal level.

What makes your VA coaching products or services stand out?

I value my work and am passionate. I am not a robot and don’t outsource my work overseas. I manage every aspect of a clients’ campaign.

Who are your ideal customers?

Small business owners and consultants.

How long do you maintain relationships with your coaching clients?

Follow up to make sure they are following the strategy we set forth. Share new tools and researching.

Of all the services you provide, is coaching one of the most rewarding to you?

Yes – teaching is my love.

Do you need to adjust your style for each  candidate or do you have a standard program?

Adjust to fit the client.

Do you have any success stories you would like to share?

I coached a client on growing her Twitter following and social media presence. She had 40 followers on Twitter. 2 months later had over 1000 (used no spamming or bulk follow methods). She gets Retweeted, FollowFriday and has conversation on Twitter with prospective clients every day.

Why did you become a VA?

I loved the idea of more flexibility, being able to be available part time for my kids, choosing the people I get to work with and just running my own business.

How do you prefer to communicate with clients? Phone, email, chat, combo?

I like to work with Skype and e-mail.

How do you stay organized?  Do you have any organization tips?

I’m all about lists: to-do lists, task lists, priority lists, grocery lists…

How would your friends describe you?

Positive, good listener, usually in a good mood, very Swiss (meaning: on time, reliable, organized, picky about her chocolate)

How would your clients describe you?

Efficient, innovative, always finding better and faster ways

How do you feel about social media?

A must for small businesses! Social media offers small businesses so many free marketing opportunities which didn’t exist before. I’m thinking of Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn etc. It would be a pity if a business with a small marketing budget didn’t take advantage of them! Of course Social Media requires quite some time, so sometimes it makes sense to outsource these tasks to a Virtual Assistant.

What is your favorite VA resource or network?

I recently discovered VAClassroom and love their classes. Really worth your money! And Twitter: I have met so many great people and fellow VAs on Twitter.

Since becoming a VA have you changed your offerings based on new skills you obtained since you started your own business?

Yes, I attended the Internet Marketing Specialist Class from VAClassroom and am now also offering Internet Marketing Advice to small businesses. I will continue to train on new subjects in order to always be up to date with the current market.

What are the first things you discuss with a client looking to start or augment an internet marketing campaign?

During the initial consultation I assess the company’s current involvement in internet marketing, redefine their objectives and target audience. From there we determine the needs and gaps in their internet marketing strategy. I then establish an Internet Marketing Action Plan, which lines out all the action steps and internet marketing channels that I think should be focused on.

How do you guage the success of your Internet marketing efforts?

Tools such as Google Analytics and Google Webmaster tools are essential in the measurement of success of a newly implemented internet marketing strategy.

Why should an entrepreneur or business owner hire a VA to manage their campaigns?

A small business owner should focus on the core of his business, do what he’s good at and outsource the rest. VAs are specialized and have attended training in the specific subject and will be well worth the entrepreneur’s money.

How important is it to maintain a blog?  What are the hidden benefits?

The blog plays a very important role in any internet marketing strategy. It is your doorway to all other social media and internet marketing. Your blog is where you show off your expertise, engage with your audience and create a community. The hidden benefits is that search engines love blog posts. Of course you have to promote your blog trough Social Media… What’s the point of a blog if nobody knows about it, right?

How often should you post to a blog?

As often as you can commit to do it regularly. Start with once a week, if you can 2 – 3 times a week it’s even better.