Mentor Program Classes
(classes may vary by session)
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Orientation
Are you new to working solo? Would you like to know how working remotely differs from a more “traditional” workplace model? Want to know the pros of this workstyle, as well as the cons? This introduction will give you an informed, insider’s view and offer you the ability to ask questions of someone who’s been there, done that.
Change is Good
You’ve made the leap, you’ve taken the plunge - now it’s time to ride the waves of change like a pro. This class will teach you more about the Change Cycle and how you can manage the various stages with confidence. Be prepared to manage not only your adjustments to this brave new world, but those feelings within your family and community as well. Change and transition are among the biggest challenges new business owners face. Learn valuable tips and tools for managing this important time in your life and in your business.
The Startup VA: Dos & Don’ts
Starting up any new business is challenging, but starting a Virtual Assistant business holds very unique challenges due to the remote nature of the client-VA relationship. Tackling a handful of common fumbles in the beginning will build a strong foundation for the future. Some of the items we’ll cover include first impressions, effective remote communication, essential tools, client/subcontracting boundaries and the perfect client. There is always a necessary amount of ‘learning from your mistakes’ in any new endeavor, but you can save countless hours of frustration — and achieve immediate positive first impressions with clients and colleagues — by implementing these simple tips from those who have traveled that rugged road before.
Importance of Contracts
Do you really need a contract? Can’t you just trust others? How complex and full of legal mumbo-jumbo must a contract be? Contracts keep you AND your client on the same page. This session will answer all your burning contract-related questions and insure that if a project takes a deep detour midway through, that you and your client understand how that decision will impact the bottom line. It will also help you to handle the sticky details — like getting paid.
Financial Planning
Getting a financial plan in place as you begin your business will put you on the fast track for success. This small business finance guru will answer all your questions about what will work and what will cause future problems. Begin your business with an accurate overview of your finances, a simple way to set your goals and the ability to begin achieving them now.
Niche Selection
The Internet is a big place. It’s no longer a novelty to be working online. Today’s marketplace requires specialization. If you begin your business by promoting a specific niche, it’s much easier to capture the attention of your desired clients. Don’t get stuck being a jack-of-all trades, select your best one. Learn how in this one-hour workshop.
Branding
Making your mark online is easier if you have a memorable brand. Get the best tips on how to brand your business and get it on the path to success in this class. If you need help making your brand memorable, descriptive and effective… this is the session to set your business brand in motion!
Developing Your Web Presence
Working online without an effective website makes a difficult task (starting a new business) even more challenging. Without a web presence you aren’t merely pulling a brand new business along — you are pushing it in front of you…uphill. Developing an effective website means that you can have the power of Google, Yahoo!, and MSN helping you promote your business. The sooner you get online, the sooner you become visible to the world.
Scheduling and Organizing Your Time
Solopreneurs juggle a tremendous number of tasks every single day. They aren’t only handling client projects, they are also handling the details of owning and operating a business, personal tasks that have to be scheduled during “regular” business hours and the joys of working in an office that is often too accessible by family and friends. The first line of defense is setting boundaries and the second is learning to organize and schedule your time effectively. This session will give you the skills to survive entrepreneurship day after day.
Data Security
When you handle delicate, confidential information, or trade secrets for clients, your own security measures must be top-notch. Learn how to lock down your data and offer your clients the confidence that their information is safe and secure in your hands.
Tax/Corporate Structure
Should your new business be a proprietorship? An LLC? A corporation? What’s the best for you financially? Which one offers the most protection legally? Which one will minimize your taxes and your paperwork? This tax specialist will give you the skinny on running a business that won’t run you. Get this right from the
start and you won’t have to endure the stress of re-working a business after it’s already underway. Ask questions and get answers so you (and your business) can start smart!
Social Networking
Still sitting on the social networking sidelines? Not sure how to get started? Need to know if it’s really worth the time and effort? Talk with this social networking expert to determine which of the hundreds of platforms and dozens of types of social networking will be a best bet for your particular business. Learn how to find current clients, peers and new contacts online to strengthen relationships and improve your “face” time with them while working virtually.
Marketing Yourself Online
Choosing your business structure, selecting a niche, developing a brand image and launching a website is a great start, but finding success online means one more thing… marketing. Aside from the social networking opportunities, you need the nitty-gritty of Online Marketing 101 to give your new online business the fuel it needs to launch. This session will give you the basic Internet marketing steps every new business needs. Quick, painless and in an hour. You can even ask questions!
Subcontracting / Bartering
As you begin your career as a Virtual Professional, you may find that a great way to kick start your business is to subcontract for an existing Virtual Professional or to barter your services with another company. Bartering can be defined as the exchange of goods or services for other goods and services. Use this session to build on your existing business plan as a way to assist in the growth of your client base. This session will include tips to help you determine which may be the best fit for you, subcontracting or bartering.
Successful Selling and Marketing
When dealing with current clients, potentials and peers, you are constantly in the position of selling the value of your services and promoting their desire to have you on the team. Review the typical sales process and learn to invite new clients into your business day — every day. This workshop will include ideas for finding new clients, tip sheets, worksheets, and will help you develop a better defined sales process. This session will leave you with a renewed understanding, motivation and appreciation for selling services remotely.
