Many writers reach a point in their business where they max out their work capacity. And as a result, they start looking for ways to scale their operation.
Many of them will decide to hire another writer. This approach makes sense for many. But for others, it’s not the best place to start.
Often, a better first step is to hire a virtual assistant.
In this episode, I explain why hiring a VA is a safer choice. And what you can do to help make it a success.
The notes that follow are a very basic, unedited summary of the show. There’s a lot more detail in the audio version. You can listen to the show using the audio player below. Or you can subscribe in iTunes to get this show delivered straight to the Podcasts app on your smart phone, tablet or iPod.
Virtual assistants (VAs) can provide much more than administrative support. Many can also help with client support, website maintenance, blogs, newsletters, webinars, events, and bookkeeping. Some can even help you deliver some of your productized services.
Why start with a VA? Mainly because it’s a safer bet.
Often, hiring a VA is a safer first step than hiring another writer.
Also, freeing up more of your work capacity is valuable. It’s also great testing ground for when you DO decide to look for a writer.
So what kind of tasks can you outsource to a VA? Any process that’s repeatable — and that you can document — is a good candidate.
A few tips (which are directly from Crystal Coleman, my VP of Operations. Crystal has worked as a VA herself and has experience hiring and managing VAs):
- While you may have a long list of tasks for your new virtual assistant, start with only two or three. Don’t go crazy!
- Keep in mind you might not find one assistant who can meet all your needs. Prioritize your tasks and then, in time, add more members to your team as needed.
- Don’t commit to a retainer until you’ve worked with your new virtual assistant for at least 30 days.
Bottom line: Don’t assume that the best way to scale up is to hire a writer. Consider bringing in a VA first. It’s a safer way to start down this path…and you’ll free up more of your time faster.
By the way … whenever you’re ready, here are 4 ways I can help you grow your freelance business:
1. Grab a free copy of my book for ESTABLISHED writers/copywriters.
You’ll discover how to quickly and predictably reawaken dead leads, generate new client opportunities and convert not-yet-ready prospects into freelance writing clients. — Click Here
2. Download a free copy of my new book for writers who are NEW to freelancing.
I’ll show you the 3 things you need to do to get your business off the ground safely and land your first paying client faster. — Click Here
3. Join my implementation program and be a case study.
I’m putting together a new implementation group this month. If you’d like to work with me to grow your income quickly with better clients (and become one of my new success stories). Just email me at [email protected] and put “Case Study” in the subject line.
4. Get a 1:1 strategy call with me.
Are you a 6-figure writer who’s trying to earn more in less time with less stress? Let’s jump on a quick call and brainstorm some ideas for getting you there. Just email me at [email protected] and put “Brainstorm” in the subject line.
