What made you decide you wanted to become a VA and when?
A very successful friend has used multiple VAs for a long time and has, at every opportunity, highlighted the benefits of the flexibility of deciding my own hours and clients and the skill set I wished to use. I finally made the decision to start by own business in 2012.
Were you concerned that there were already many VAs already out there and this would be competition?
I have never been concerned about competition as I think everybody has a different niche, different style, different strengths.
What gave you the confidence to give yourself that push to go ahead and do it?
The support of my friend and her VA (Isobel Gatherer) and the knowledge my skill set was perfect for the type of assistance a VA provides.
When you decided to get started what made you decide to go for some VA training?
I wanted to ensure I made a success of my business and be confident I was at the top of my game!
Why did you decide on The VA Coaching and Training Company and what was your experience of the training?
The VA Coaching and Training Company came very highly recommended by Isobel Gatherer and my experience was (and still is!) excellent!
What have been the highlights of your business so far?
Lots of highlights! From organizing private screenings in London to helping a client open a Child Day Care chain to booking glamorous photo shoots for a paparazzi professional – never a dull moment!
What have been some challenges you have experienced and if you were to do things differently next time what would you do?
Initially, finding clients was slightly challenging and if I were to do things differently, it would be to network locally and in a more targeted fashion rather than get lost in the wrong networking groups in a large city.
What type of clients do you work with and do you specialise in a particular service?
I work with different types of clients (author and communication expert, paparazzi, entrepreneur) and my services range from administrative to travel to event creation.
What advice would you give to anyone just starting out especially in relation to training?
The business running part of The VA Coaching and Training course is INVALUABLE ! Whilst most VA skills are already in place or can be self-taught, this really was the most important part of what I learnt.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?
With a flourishing VA business specializing in events, travel and paparazzi!
Who in business would you love to meet and why?
I would like to meet Richard Branson as I admire how he has made a success of each business and continued to grow and expand and push boundaries.
Which book has influenced you the most in your business?
Losing my virginity by Richard Branson and Mind Maps by Tony Buzan
What is your favourite quote and why?
‘Never, never, never give in!’ by Winston Churchill because it summarises absolute determination
What do you love to do when you’re not working?
Running, good food, travelling – ideally all in close succession !!!
And lastly – what one thing can you tell us about you that not many people know?
I commentated on live Italian TV on a football match from the Olympic Stadium in Rome!
You can read more about Karen on her website here http://www.karenblackva.com