Networking for the Savvy Virtual Assistant.

By Crystal Redhead-Gould

Often as Virtual Assistants we often neglect a vital area of our business. We are often stuck in front of the computer tirelessly working on our clients’ projects. Or as newbie Virtual Assistants we think that, as Virtual Assistants we no longer have to go out in the big world and meet others, after all isn’t that the reason we now work virtually? In case you haven’t figured it out the vital area I am talking about is networking.

We cannot, and I mean it, we cannot build a successful business without networking. Sure you may land a few clients here and there but in order to really build the business you dream of with the clients that you really want to work with you must network. That said, there are a few networking basics that you need to consider before launching an all out networking campaign.

Choose the appropriate networking event to attend. Just as you give careful thought to your niche market you need to also give careful thought to your networking strategy. Do you need to meet accountants, or maybe authors? Then carefully screen an event for the possibility of meeting accountants or authors before sending out your rsvp.

Approach networking with the right attitude. My credo is to help as much people whenever you can. Listen to what others have to say; by really listening you just might pick up on tidbits that may be beneficial to your business. I have proven this over and over again. Bottom line; give as much or even more than you’ll get at networking events. People will remember you for it.

Work on your elevator speech. Be prepared for that all-important question. So what do you do? You must be prepared to clearly articulate how you help clients of your virtual assistant practice. Your pitch should give them a reason to stand up and take notice. Do this in 30 seconds or less if you could. Remember however, to leave your sale pitch at home!

Gear Up . Make sure that you have everything you need to make the right impression. You should have some small leaflets or brochures explaining the benefits of Virtual Assistants. I have found that there are still quite a few business owners who have never heard the term Virtual Assistant. You should also have professional business cards with all your contact information. Please remember to keep them within easy reach so you can easily hand them out at the right moment.

Follow-Up . Did you make any promises at to anyone attending the event? Be sure to fulfill those promises. Send a thank you note to any one who gave you a referral. Find a reason to call up some of the contacts you made, even if it is to offer free advice.

Finally remember to make use of all the business cards collected. They may not all give you business but you can make a friend who can give you valuable referrals. Remember the basics of successful networking: taking the time to prepare, deliver and follow-up. When you do this you will reap the benefits of unlimited clients and invaluable friends.

Crystal Redhead-Gould is the President of Five Star Executives.