Whether you’re just starting out or you have an established business,
finding clients in any industry is no easy task.
There really is no set process for how to get their attention and convert that into the business. This task can be even harder for virtual assistants.
By definition, they do not operate face-to-face with their existing or
prospective clients or customers, making it difficult to create connections and build business relationships.
Here are some strategies and tips to attract clients and get yourself
out there;
1. Build an effective online presence to impress clients
This is an obvious part of being a virtual assistant, but having the right online strategy in place can make a big difference. There has been a shift away from outbound or outward-facing marketing, where businesses would actively advertise to clients. Those clients are now looking for information themselves, and having a great website is crucial. Make sure to have your fees and rates in order, that your website is simple and easy to use, and have an excellent resume/portfolio ready for prospective clients and or customers to fall in love with.
2. Build a brand and be seen by clients
By creating a personalized logo and other associated visuals, you’re going to be more likely to stand out from the crowd. Unfortunately, there are a lot of other virtual assistants out there, so try and have something that is eye-catching. Make sure it is simple, professional, and ties back to your core business.
3. Start social networking for potential clients
Endure and explore the brave new world of business marketing. We live in a time where almost every person, business, and farm animal has a social media account. Most of the time they have several -Facebook, Twitter, Instagram. The list is endless, and new sites are popping up almost constantly. A good idea is to stick to the key sites, those that get the most traffic, and start putting yourself out there.
4. Go to external events and network
This may not always be possible depending upon your location, but sometimes there is nothing better than meeting people face-to-face and getting to know them. You’ll have the opportunity to explain your services yourself and show the passion that you have for what you do.
5. Use websites like Elance and ODesk
These are excellent resources for anybody looking to work online. Thankfully the number of jobs posted for virtual assistants is extensive, so you’ll have no trouble finding a number of opportunities to submit a
proposal for. Just keep in mind that websites like these often have a lot of people that will work for next to nothing, so you need to make sure your proposal stands out from the crowd.
6. Start a blog
This will tie in well with building an online presence. A blog can be a very effective marketing tool if used properly. You could write about trends in the industry, what some businesses are doing, and use that as a chance to market yourself as a better alternative. It needs to be subtle, but when done correctly it can
help convert those clients that are sitting on the fence.
7. Be yourself and be likable
Probably one of the most important tips on this list. A virtual assistant is someone that has a lot of involvement in another person’s life, whether it is business or personal. By being approachable and easy to get along with, you’re more likely to attract new clients who just want someone to help them out.
Every business and person is different, so the same strategy won’t work for everyone. But if you start by implementing the above tips you can start to generate some interest, build your confidence, and start landing those great new clients!
