Deciding to start your own VA business, is the first in a succession of steps needed, to make your VA business a successful one. Those first steps are so important, if you want to ensure you’re off to a good start – so it’s essential you get them right.
Here’s the first 5 steps you need, if you want to get your VA business up and running.
Step #1: Clarify your ideal client
As tempting as it may sound, starting your business on the basis that you’re going to work for anyone and everyone, isn’t going to work. Not only is it an ineffective way to market yourself, you’re not going to stand out to your potential clients either. If you want to stand out, you need to know who you’re going to work with. Who is your ideal client? Where will you find them and what needs will you be helping them with? It’s only when you niche down, that you’ll find it easier to market and build your business.
Step #2: Get the legalities in place
The next important step is to ensure you have all the necessary legalities in place. This includes getting yourself and your business covered by those necessary and essential insurance policies. At the least, you need Professional Indemnity and, if you’re looking to have clients to your home or at in-person events, you’ll also need Public Liability. Another legality that needs to sorted is your client contracts. These will help protect both you and your client, by clarifying what is (and isn’t!) included in your services, how it will work and for how long they’re committing to being with you.
Step #3: Build a social media presence
Once you have the legalities in place, you need to start raising your profile. Social media is a great way to do this. Set yourself up a professional profile on LinkedIn, get yourself a page (not personal profile!) on Facebook and look at the other social media options available to you. Start by using one or two, until you’re familiar with them – before you sign up to any other platforms.
Step #4: Get your VA business financials in place
When it comes to setting up your business, you have two main options – Limited Company versus sole trader. Each will have their own requirements regarding tax, National Insurance etc, so make sure you know the benefits and downsides of both, before you make your choice.
Step #5: Build a support network
Finally, it’s worth remembering, working for yourself can be both daunting and lonely. This is why it pays to get yourself a support network in place. Join a community of likeminded people, sign up to a VA society and get yourself a mentor. Not only will this ensure you have support, it’s also a great way to learn from those who are already doing what you set out to do – run a successful VA business.
If you’re ready to take your VA business to the next level, and are looking to join a successful and active community, look no further! We have a great range of training programmes available for you – and each will give you access to a supportive and positive community. So, why not check out which option is best for you – over on our website?
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