Small Business Spotlight: Delightful in the Details

 

One of the best parts of my job is that I get to meet so many interesting people in interesting professions! Up until a few years ago, I didn’t even know that executive virtual assistants existed! I thought some of my small business owner friends may be at the point where you are ready to hire out some tasks so you can spend your time currency on the things you do best! So, without further ado, I’d like to introduce you to one of my clients, Jennifer Martin, an executive virtual assistant, so you can learn more about who she is and what she does.

Me: “Jennifer, what would you say to the entrepreneur who likes to be in control and doesn’t even know where to begin in letting go of things in their business?”

Jennifer: “That’s a great question, and it’s something many entrepreneurs experience because they’ve been used to doing it all. As a business owner, I get that your business is your baby. And you shouldn’t entrust it to just anyone. That’s why it’s important to take the time to find someone you connect with and can trust. I suggest starting small and handing over a few tasks at a time. Once you know an assistant can follow through on those tasks, you’ll realize the freedom you have to focus on what you do best. Then you’ll be more comfortable handing over more parts of your business that tend to take up so much of your time. I see clients get to a point where they’re able to outsource more of their business so they can really stay in their zone of genius which allows them to grow their business exponentially.”

 

Me: “What are specific areas in which a virtual assistant can help business owners with?”

 

Jennifer: “There are SO MANY services virtual assistants can offer that it really depends on the VA. Many Virtual Assistants offer a variety of services, but some only specialize in one or two. Typical services can vary anywhere from administrative tasks to email and calendar management, systems set-up, website maintenance, Pinterest or social media management, event planning, and website SEO. That’s just to list a few. It’s important for the client to determine what she needs help with the most, and then look for someone who offers those services. However, even though a VA may list one or two specialized services, many are willing to take on additional tasks based on their experience. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask.”

Me: “What can a client expect when working with you? What does it look like from the moment a client inquires? Are clients working with a EVA for projects, on-going, or both?”

 

“For me, it’s both. As an Executive Virtual Assistant, I typically work with clients on an on-going basis, but also offer services for a set time-frame in order to complete a specific project. I value open communication and a seamless, enjoyable experience from the time a client reaches out to me until we are used to working together. Busy CEOs needing an assistant don’t have time to waste. It starts with a video-chat where we get to know one another and determine if we’re a good fit. It’s a great opportunity for me to learn about her and her specific business needs. I then create a custom proposal based on the client’s specific needs. From there, if she wants to move forward, we will set up a kick-off call to really get into the details of the tasks or projects I’ll be taking on. For on-going services, I generally suggest starting with a 3-month contract. It’s enough time for both parties to determine if they want to continue working together, but it’s not a long-term commitment. And it allows the client time to determine if she would like to adjust or increase the types of tasks she will hand over to me. Once you find the right person, it’s usually at that point you wonder why you didn’t hire help earlier and are ready to pass on additional parts of your business that you don’t need (or want) to be doing.”

 

Me: “Anything else you would like to add?”

Jennifer: “I enjoy being my client’s right-hand girl and gatekeeper, if you will. I enjoy keeping her organized, leading a team and ensuring we do what’s needed to accomplish my client’s goals for her business. I’ve formed close relationships with my clients and have experienced personal fulfillment getting to do the things I’m good at, and at the same time, seeing my clients flourish as they’re able to focus on what they do best. I love the joy we experience operating in our own unique giftings and abilities for a common goal.

If you’re considering hiring a VA, I encourage you to take the time to seek out the person that’s right for you. As a believer, I’d encourage you to pray for God to lead you to the right person for you and your business. It can take time, but once you’ve found a trusted assistant, you’ll see the value of your decision, experience freedom from the overwhelm, have the ability to scale and grow your business, and increase your happiness level knowing you can focus on what’s most important to you.”

I hope you found the interview as fascinating as I did! I know Jennifer, and if you are thinking you need a VA, she is definitely one to contact. She is kind, thorough, detail-oriented and super pleasant to work with! Visit her website to find out more (and see how she did such a great job at sprinkling her branding photos throughout!)

Do you have a VA? If so, what has she helped you with the most? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

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