Any self employed PA's or Exec Assistants on here? Start up advice

[Chicinwellies]

I am an experienced Executive Assistant, with over 10yrs project management and PA roles behind me, so have decided to take the plunge and see how being self employed treats me. I appreciate that the economy doesnt exactly scream Do it Do it at the moment, but, I really want to give it a go. Would really appreciate some start up tips, how best to invest in advertising and spreading the word. I am keen to ascertain more high level appointments rather than temping in an accountants for example (not that theres anything wrong with that at all, its just that my experience and relevent skill lie more with diplomatic/executive roles). Look forward to hearing from anyone! Thanks.

Firstly I think this is a great time to start a business - good luck!

As for tips on setting up, there are a number of sites out there that can give impartial tips. See details below.

In terms of how to market yourself, you are limiting your market by focusing on the high level appointments. When you worked as an Executive Assistant, where did you bosses network? Can you get in to those networks to promote your services?

How about Linked In - www.linkedin.com - to get in touch with your old bosses to see if you can get back in front of these people?

There will be lots of networking groups near where you live (4 Networking, BNI etc), but I suspect you will not find the senior executives that you want to work with at these groups. However, you local Chamber of Commerce may well run networking events.

As for support sites, try:

www.startups.co.uk
www.startuprevolution.co.uk

Above all, good luck - this is a fantastic time to start a business.

Thank you so much - that is incredibly useful.

Hello MrsSRL just wanted to let you know that I have done it, and so far ( touch wood ) all is going well. Here I am : www.besidetheseasidepa.com

Hello

Congrats on your launch.

Are you a VA or a self-employed PA that would work in somebody's office? Site looks nice.

Since establishing myself as a freelancer last year I have met a few VAs. Despite them being able to work with clients anywhere, they all seemed very good and focused on local networking. Also, some of them actually organised events/networks themselves - that puts you in a really powerful position as the organiser.

There are also admin/PA 'jobs' offered on the freelance sites, but the pay is generally poor but might be good for gaining some experience of working virtually etc. www.peopleperhour.com

Good luck with it all.
WS

Hi there, I am a freelance PA, there is work out there but it is hard work getting clients. One advice I would give is that it is not enough just to have a website, I initially thought it would be but quickly found out it is more effective to go to networking lunches, breakfasts etc, doing some email marketing, but the best method I have found is word of mouth. I only had one client for the first couple of months after I started, but he has passed my details on to others, and this is how I have got my best clients. I wish you lots of luck in your venture, it is hard work but can be done!