Web URL: http://www.creativeassistants.com
In Business Since: 2003
Type of Business: Virtual Assistance
Works: 100% virtually
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Twitter ID: @copong
Ruth: Welcome to the blog, Cindy. I understand that your company, Creative Assistants, is a multi-va team. Tell us more.
Cindy: Yes, we’re a virtual assistance team working primarily with consultants who contract to large corporations or government agencies. We provide a wide range of services including business management, social media strategy/implementation/maintenance, website updates and maintenance, copy editing, invoicing, and teleseminar coordination, and of course, many of the more “traditional” admin and VA tasks. Because of my technical background, we also handle some unique projects for clients which are a bit more technical in nature – such as Quality Assurance and call center script testing.
As I mentioned, we’re a team – and the VAs on my team are fabulous, seasoned professionals with unique areas of expertise. They love what they do and our clients notice that and love working with them.
Ruth: Your services are well-rounded for clients seeking everything under one roof or those who need one specialty area. How would you describe your beginnings? What spurred your interest in becoming a virtual assistant?
Cindy: In 2001, I got caught up in the technology sector layoffs. I had been working as an Executive Assistant at a large corporation and loved much of the work, but knew I had skills which were under-utilized. I thought about starting a business where I could offer admin and technical services to smaller companies, specifically to musicians (drawing on my past career in that industry). At the time, I was also considering moving overseas and wanted a business that I could do from anywhere. In my research, I came across the term Virtual Assistant and knew instantly that’s what I was meant to do. I opened my doors in November 2002 and never looked back. It did take a while for me to figure out the magic formula for my success but once I did, doors opened left and right. My direction and focus has changed several times over the years as I’ve grown and adapted to the changing world of technology, but I’m so glad I stuck to my vision to create my own business which would honor my unique skills, personality and dreams. It’s allowed me experiences I never dreamed of and has grown into the perfect career for me during my current stage of life – raising children!
Ruth: Have you had a mentor to offer support and guidance?
Cindy: Oh my goodness, there have been so many! IVAA was (and still is) a key support system for me. Once I attended my first live IVAA conference in 2004 and saw how wonderful my VA colleagues were, I started to get more involved in the organization and that one move made a world of difference in my business. Volunteering for IVAA was instrumental in the growth of my business. It allowed industry leaders with thriving VA practices to see my skills in practice and learn about my strengths, which led to several sub-contracting positions as well as some direct client referrals. These ladies and many other IVAA friends have provided invaluable support over the years – advice for sticky situations, encouragement when business was slow, suggestions for improving, support of my endeavors, trust in my ability to become an organization leader, and many long-time friendships (which is the best perk of all).
Ruth: What advise would you offer someone considering a virtual career such as yours?
Cindy: Network and get involved as a volunteer! This is true not only in VA industry organizations such as IVAA or VA League but also on a local level. Even though your business is virtual, don’t discount the value of in-person networking at your Chamber of Commerce, in a leads group, or at industry conferences for your target market. Find 2-3 groups (local and online) to become actively involved in then volunteer for at least one of them so they start to see your skills and dedication.
Ruth: Volunteering and networking are the keys to opening doors with others who became not only your big fans (supporters) but portals to prospective clients. What advice might you have for a client looking for a multi-va company like Creative Assistants?
Cindy: Find someone who fits your personality and work style. And don’t settle for someone less than ideal just because their rate is the lowest. Invest some time now to find the best fit for you and you will reap the rewards for years to come. (Yes, I said years! Our clients must be in it for the long-haul and we have a couple entering their 7th year with us.)
Ruth: Thanks so much sharing your story and insights with us, Cindy.
Interested in connecting with Cindy to learn how Creative Assistants can support you in your business then visit her website here and be sure to link up with her on her social media sites.
