Comments on: What’s It Really Take To Become A Virtual Assistant

By: Danielle Keister

Danielle Keister — Mon, 12 Mar 2007 21:25:12 +0000

Oh, no–I DO have to deal with those folks all the time. That’s why it’s so important to me and those in my profession to make very clear to those who would enter our ranks that this is not a “job.” This is a profession where they will not be working like an employee (which is a telecommuter), but rather an independent professional.

I hear that on the “VA in a Box” kits. There are no quick fixes, shortcuts or overnight success in any business, and those folks are simply being preyed upon by unscrupulous internet marketers. You know what they say, “a fool and his/her money are soon parted.”

By: Chuck

Chuck — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:12:54 +0000

Danielle,

I can tell from your comment you don’t have to deal with the number of day dreamers I do who latch on to an idea and hope it will finally make them rich when they have no clue what’s involved.

In my business writing about these things, I’ve found I have to mention some things that should go without mentioning simply to help the day dreamers get in touch with reality so they can get on with their lives and not sink money into VA start up kits that will be another wasted buck chasing a dream because they don’t really have the motivation to tie their own shoes without supervision.

Thanks for letting me clear THAT up.

By: Danielle Keister

Danielle Keister — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 15:03:42 +0000

Hi, Chuck! I’m always pleased when people outside my profession help promote it. But I just about choked on my breakfast when I read these words in relation to Virtual Assistance: “must be able to work well without supervision.” Since when do we ask independent professionals if they work well without supervision? Is that something you ask your attorney? Your accountant? I know there are people out there using our terminology, but who operate under employee-mindset. Those are not true Virtual Assistants–those are telecommuters. REAL Virtual Assistants are independent administrative experts, they are not employee, you do not supervise them, and they will have their own systems for working with new clients and guiding the delegation process. Thanks for helping me clear that up!