Common Mistakes for Virtual Assistants
Nobody’s perfect! Even the greatest Virtual Assistants sometimes commit mistakes. These things are okay as long as you learn from it. For those who are new to this business, it is important to do some readings first so you’ll also learn from others’ mistakes.
In doing home based work, it is easier to fail than to succeed. Here are some of the things we should remember to lessen the chances of committing errors.
Working without using a contract!
This is one of the most important things in doing business arrangements with a client but unfortunately, it also often neglected. Working without a contract may produce problems in the future. Don’t trust a client too much especially if you don’t know him yet. He may ask you to do projects which are not really what you applied for. Also, a contract can assure that both you and your client agree on the terms of the task and the scope of project.
Working with just anyone…
You should not just work with anyone just to have a project. Choose clients you really want to work with. Remember, there are so many wise clients out there. Some offers low pay, hard to deal with, and some have many requirements. We should take time to research about the client before applying for a project.
Under pricing
Some Virtual Assistants charge too little just to land on a project or some lack confidence about what they can do. In charging, we must consider the time, skills, expenses, and effort we will need to spend on a project. Don’t undervalue yourself and your work or you’ll never make good money as a Virtual Assistants.
Overpricing
Overpricing is also a no-no. Charge only what’s fair and research first on the right rate before charging a client. If you price yourself too high, the clients will choose your competitors. Remember there are lot’s of other VA’s out there with skills same as you or even better than you who charges a fair rate.
Accepting all the work you can get
This is a wrong attitude when you’re working as Virtual Assistants. Earning lots of money is great but you also have to consider the quality of work you may produce if you have too many clients. Clients won’t hire you again if you continue missing deadlines and giving poor quality of work. This will also burn you out. For you to be happy with any career, you must also have some free time for yourself and your loved ones.
Ignoring details
Most Virtual Assistants don’t pay much attention to the details given by the clients. Because of this, clients won’t be satisfied with your work. Some might not even pay you if they are not happy with the outcome of your work.
Not asking for down payments
Asking for a down payment is also critical for large projects. This will ensure that the client is not a scammer and is serious about working with you. Also, it will give you protection once the client decides to discontinue the project after you began working on it.
Avoiding to communicate with Clients
As a virtual assistant, you must not forget to communicate with clients. Reply to their calls and emails as soon as possible. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions to avoid mistakes. Regular communication with clients will help you produce the kind of work they want.
Missing Deadlines
It’s very unprofessional to miss deadlines and meetings. When a client gives you a deadline, tell him immediately if you can pass it on time or not so he can give extension. Reputation is very important in this career and don’t ruin it by being unprofessional. Missing deadlines could destroy your VA career.
Neglecting Marketing
You should not underestimate the power of marketing. This is important in order for you to succeed as Virtual Assistant. Without marketing, you won’t be getting clients. You should see yourself as a product and learn to market your skills as a Virtual Assistant.
Contented on the skills they have
Virtual Assistants should not be contented on the skills they have. This is a very competitive field and you don’t want to be left out. You’ve got to be updated on the latest trends, software, and other things you can learn to improve your skills as virtual assistant. Take advantage of every learning opportunity you can get. Attend seminars, workshops and other learning events.
Speaking of seminar, you might want to join our webinar workshop this December. Check the details here http://www.virtualassistant.ph/va-workshop-mechanics/
Not following up on clients
When you decide to work as Virtual Assistant, you must also forget the word SHY. It’s important to follow up with your clients after you’ve completed a task or few days after passing your proposal. You can get more work or get the project you want if you do this. Most of the time, clients lose your contact information or just forget to get in touch that’s why it’s best if you do follow ups. You’ve got nothing to lose anyway.
Not Increasing Yearly
Because the cost of everything increase yearly, it’s just fair that you also get paid a bit more every year. Also, as the year increase, your knowledge and skills as a virtual assistant also increases.
Overworking
This is not a good thing to do. Your brain is essential in working as virtual assistant and you must remember that it also needs time to rest and recharge. .Overworking may also lead to sickness that may affect work quality so make sure to give yourself time to enjoy life outside work.
How about you? What other mistakes have you done? Let us know on the comments below so we can help other VA’s avoid doing the same.
TO ALL NEWBIE VIRTUAL ASSISTANTS: Please try to avoid making these mistakes for you to have smooth career. 
Comments
Category: Articles
Thank you for helping more Pinoys become VAs. It seems some of our kababayans tend to underprice themselves at times. Your article above will help more people value themselves more. Again, thanks!