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Ask the Master Newsletter Archives
Welcome to the previous editions of the Ask the Master newsletter.
On your left you will find links to tips and the how to’s of
running a Virtual Assistant practice. We hope you enjoy your stay
and if you have a question you’d like answered send it to submission@vatp.ca.
Ask
The Master
April 2006 - Volume 5/Issue 4 |
Describing Your Services
Is your description of services making a connection? Describe them!
Throughout our marketing materials we want to continue to try to make
a connection with a potential client. When a client sees or reads
something they can relate to themselves or a situation we can make
an instant connection with them. By doing this we invite further exploration
of our services. One of the ways you can make this happen is with
your description of services. How perfect a match is that?!
Warmly,
Mary-Lou Ashton
Master Virtual Assistant
Questions In This Edition
(Click on the links to go to that question.) What can I do
to improve communication with a client?
What is the purpose
behind my description of services? Your description of services
obviously provides additional education on how you can support a
potential client. Some individuals may be just learning about the
profession and have no idea what a VA does, while others may be
looking for clarification on how you can help them. It may also
bring awareness to a potential client around a service they may
need that they hadn’t previously thought of.
When is a good
time/place to use the description? There are many opportunities
to use this information throughout your marketing materials and
while networking. Consider using the backside of your business cards
in addition to your flyer and/or brochure. Putting them on your
web site is a must and include them in your informational package
(this can be a download off your web site). Offer to send your info
package to a potential client after a networking event.
How do I connect with
a potential client using this information? Instead of simply
listing the services such as word-processing, database management,
or desktop publishing include examples or a description of what
the service includes. For example under word-processing include
letters, reports, training manuals, contracts, proposals, business
plans, progress reports, marketing plans etc. For transcription
services list minutes from meetings, voice mail messages, class
notes, phone conversations, sales presentations, notes from focus
groups etc. This then allows the potential client to connect with
their personal situation and possibly in ways they hadn’t
thought of or could potentially see additional opportunities to
use the services.
Should
I include services I personally don’t provide? Only
if you have a solid resource available to be able to provide the
service. For example another VA who is experienced with providing
the service and with whom you have developed a relationship and
trust their abilities to service your client(s). Always remember
to notify the client if you are not personally providing the service.
Do not offer something you do not have experience in even if it
is something you are willing or would like to learn. Only offer
those you are confident you can provide. As you develop your skills
or experience you can update your list accordingly.
What else do I need
to know about my description of services? Be sure to always
include an offer to assist with finding a resource if there is a
service you don’t provide. This is about developing both your
reputation and that of the profession as a whole. By servicing the
needs of clients and potential clients all of us reap the benefits
and success of this mindset. I challenge all of you to represent
the VA profession at the highest level!
Brought to you by
Virtual Strategies
and the Virtual Assistant Training Program
Making dreams reality!
www.vatp.ca
info@vatp.ca
1-604-483-3740 |
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