Photograph — AFRICA ON THE RISE.

The virtual business industry is now very huge, it was and still is steadily growing since its inception. The affordability of technology today has made this industry very attractive one. The growth of technology has attracted many people to start their own businesses, in other words, solo entrepreneurship. These solo businesses do not have huge funds to get things done so the need for virtual assistants has emerged.

A virtual business can be run from anywhere on the planet and provide services to anyone anywhere in the world, you just need a computer and internet connection. The virtual business provides you with the opportunity to apply your administrative, management, financial or simply put business support skills and start a home-based business. A virtual assistant can do many tasks at a low price and from their own place, so for buyer, it is cost effective and for the seller it is convenient. Payment services like Payoneer help collect funds from around the world in a few hours. Here is what you need to do to start a virtual business from home.

Decide what services you will offer

You need to decide which services you will provide. Virtual assistants can offer many services like writing, management, email support, customer support, calendar management, website management, lead generation, marketing etc. if you have special skills like graphics designing then you can add this to your list as well. Focus on things you can do better. Create a service brochure which lists the services you offer.

Finalize your business name

Your business name should first be unique and should best describe what you can do for potential clients. If you offer multiple services then choose a general name and list your services under business nature. Keeping a specific name will show you as providing specific services. For example, choosing a name like graphics transitions will depict your business as only graphics related.

Create a marketing plan

For any business to be successful, it needs clients. Here you need to determine who your clients are and where are they located. Figuring out this is just the first step, you also need to reach them and get business.

Create customer list

You need to decide this in a business plan. Create a list of potential clients with business names, emails and phone numbers. You will need this list to contact the customers. Most businesses list them online, you can find this information from their social media, business listing sites, company website or employee profiles on LinkedIn.

Time management and order delivery

This is very important. People hiring online usually provide a timeline in which you need to complete the work and deliver. You can have multiple orders with different timelines, you need to manage your work according to the time sensitivity of individual projects. Delivering on time is always good and delivering before time is even better. If you wear a wrist watch like Iwc, Tudor or Casio, chances are you manage your time.   

Join freelance markets

There are many freelance platforms like Fiverr, people per hour and freelancers working. Join these platforms as they are a very good source of getting work. Create a professional profile and market it on a social network to gain views. You will for sure get work from these platforms.

Get clients

Once you have decided the services you will provide, your customers and the way you will reach them, it’s time to actually contact them and introduce your business. Working on getting your clients can be disappointing but do not give up. Every business needs time to take off. Once you get your clients they will be a good source of providing more potential clients, so provide good service so they can recommend you to others.

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