The VA community and how its helped me
Since becoming a Virtual Assistant, I have done my best to immerse myself into the community, to meet other virtual assistants and freelancers, and to spend time cultivating relationships that will be beneficial to not just my business, but that I now work from home as a solo business owner.
When I started my journey, I didn’t really have any connections. I didn’t know anyone who was a virtual assistant and I only knew a few freelancers that weren’t photographers or artists (my previous career). All I had was my skills and the internet! Before officially setting up, I joined as many facebook groups that I could, and began researching. After a month or so, I finally felt brave enough to begin asking questions and wow! I was blown away - everyone was so kind and generous.
Armed with some information I went for it. I set up, started reaching out to connections and applying for associate positions. I was taken in by a couple of very kind lead VA’s who were happy for me to learn the ropes and work through things myself, while guiding me and letting me explore what work I did and didn’t enjoy. Over time I learnt more and more, and I’m so grateful for the associate opportunities I was given.
After networking online and with other associate VAs, I realised that I needed to meet some people in real like. Therefore I decided to go for it and buy a ticket to the VA Conference in Bournemouth. I knew just one other associate going called Elspeth, so it was a huuuuuuge step for me to go and meet a bunch of strangers. But I needn’t of worried, I soon found friends.
Me and my new found friends at the VA conference in Bournemouth, October 2023.
The first night, Elspeth and I went for dinner and then to an unofficial pre-conference drinks meet up. That evening I met the lovely ladies above (L-R, Kirsty, Me, Amy, Elspeth, Suzy - and Hayley from The VA Lounge behind!) and we spend the evening nervously chatting. The next day, we found each other at the morning tea and coffee session before the first conference session, and the five of us decided there and then we would sit together. Thanks to that day, we set up a Whatsapp group and have since become firm friends who share advice, stories and connections. We have even created a podcast based off our friendship!
Another thing I’ve noticed is that other VA’s are extremely supportive of any problems you’re having. I’ve had some health problems this year and ever so kindly, I’ve had other members reach out to support me with problems and issues - some of them I’ve never even spoken to before. And everyone I speak to has found the same thing. People are so supportive, share advice and kind words and often approach you to take on clients they aren’t suited to themselves. People promote you and your projects and I am just really grateful to have found such a lovely community.
