20 Years as a VA: Lessons Learned - Part 1! 🎉💼Join us for a special anniversary celebration as we kick off a two-part podcast series sharing 20 invaluable lessons learned over 20 years in the virtual assistant industry. 🌟 In this episode, we'll cover the first ten lessons, ranging from navigating the complexities of client relationships to honing essential skills for success as a VA. 💡 Plus, we'll delve into Kathie Thomas's insightful article, "Not Everyone Can be a VA," exploring the qualities and characteristics that set successful VAs apart from the rest. 📝 Whether you're a seasoned VA seeking affirmation or an aspiring entrepreneur eager to learn from those who have paved the way, this episode offers practical advice, personal anecdotes, and actionable insights to guide you on your journey. 💬 Don't miss out on this opportunity to glean wisdom from 20 years of experience and set yourself up for success in the dynamic world of virtual assistance. 🚀 Tune in now to embark on a transformative journey of growth and discovery! 🔍🌱

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© Lyn Prowse-Bishop – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Virtual Business Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

References:

I refer to Kathie Thomas’s excellent article in this episode and you can find it linked below:
Kathie Thomas – Not Everyone Can be a VA

Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.

Offshore Freelancers: Understanding the VA Role and Beyond! 🌏💼In the third instalment of our Offshore Freelancers series, we shine a spotlight on our offshore colleagues and their journey into the world of virtual assistance. 🚀 From seeking the freedom to work on their own terms to fulfilling childcare, elder care, or disability needs, offshore freelancers share many of the same motivations as their onshore counterparts. 💡 In this episode, we delve into essential tips for offshore freelancers, with a primary focus on understanding the role of a VA. 📝 Join us as we explore the nuances of virtual assistance, debunk common misconceptions, and provide actionable advice to help offshore freelancers thrive in the industry. 🌟 Whether you're considering a career as a VA or seeking guidance on navigating the world of remote work, this episode offers invaluable insights to empower offshore freelancers on their journey to success. 💬 Don't miss out on this essential discussion on defining the VA role and unlocking the potential of offshore freelancers in the virtual assistance community! 🔍🌱

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© Lyn Prowse-Bishop – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Virtual Business Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Reference Links:
History of the VA Industry
Ep 41: Offshore Freelancers – Part 1
Ep 42: Offshore Freelancers – Part 2
Professional Virtual Assistants – Philippines
Rochefel Rivera – YouTube
Ep 39: Should Cost of Living Count
Ep 38: Worth v Value
No, Not Everyone Can Be a VA – Kathie Thomas

Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.

Australian Payroll and Superannuation for VAs: Insights from a Small Business Accounting Specialist! 💼🇦🇺In this exclusive episode tailored for our Australian listeners, we dive into the intricacies of the Australian Single Touch Payroll (STP) system and superannuation guarantee, with special guest, small business accounting specialist, Pauline Pickering, director of Globe Accounting. 💡 From demystifying the STP system to exploring its implications for VAs who pay themselves wages or employ family members, we'll cover everything you need to know to stay compliant and informed. 📊 Additionally, we'll address common misconceptions surrounding superannuation eligibility for VAs, clarifying whether sole operators are indeed entitled to superannuation contributions. 🎓 Whether you're a sole operator, company, trust, or partnership structure, this episode offers invaluable insights to help you navigate the complex landscape of payroll and superannuation in Australia. 🌟 Don't miss out on this essential discussion on ensuring compliance and financial well-being as a VA operating in the Australian market! 🔍📈(As this episode is an interview recording the audio quality is slightly different to previous shows.)

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© Lyn Prowse-Bishop – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Virtual Business Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.

Offshore Support: Understanding the Differences and Making Informed Choices! 🌏💼In the latest instalment of our offshore freelancer series, we shift the focus to helping clients navigate the differences between local and offshore support. 💡 From cultural nuances to communication challenges, there are numerous factors to consider when exploring offshore options for your business needs. 🌐 In this episode, we'll highlight some of the key considerations you may not have thought about when choosing the offshore option, drawing on real-life examples and insights from industry experts. 📊 Plus, we'll break down the costs associated with outsourcing by examining a case study of one outsourcing company's expenses. 💰 Whether you're weighing the pros and cons of offshore support or seeking guidance on making informed choices, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the complex landscape of global outsourcing. 🚀 Don't miss out on this essential discussion on optimising your business's support systems and unlocking the potential of offshore partnerships! 🔍🌱(Please note: This podcast refers to the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement – this agreement is now defunct after the US withdrew, and was replaced by the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) of which China is not a member.)

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© Lyn Prowse-Bishop – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Virtual Business Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
Reference Links:
History of the VA Industry
Outsourcing Company Ad
Outsourcing Company Costs
Episode 41: Offshore Freelancers

Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.

Embracing Offshore Freelancers: Dispelling Myths and Embracing Collaboration! 🌏💼Offshore freelancers have been a part of the business landscape for years, and their presence is only growing stronger. 📈 Yet, despite their contributions and expertise, there still exists a lingering fear surrounding offshore "VAs" in some local circles. 🌐 In this enlightening episode, we debunk common myths and misconceptions surrounding offshore freelancers, inviting listeners to embrace collaboration rather than viewing them as a threat. 💡 By challenging these fears, we open the door to a world of opportunities for mutual growth and success. 🌱 Join us as we explore the invaluable contributions of offshore freelancers and the benefits of forging partnerships across borders. 🤝 Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the concept of offshore collaboration, this episode offers valuable insights. 🌟 Don't let fear hold you back – tune in to embrace the power of collaboration and unlock the full potential of offshore partnerships! 🔍🚀

Don't miss exclusive subscriber only content. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe now⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – it’s just 99c! 📬 

© Lyn Prowse-Bishop – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Virtual Business Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.

Embracing Change: The Path to Business Success! 🌟Change is an inevitable part of business and life itself, as wisely noted by the Greek philosopher Heraclitus: "The only constant in life is change." 🌊 How we respond to these changes can shape the trajectory of our success or failure in business. 💼 In this insightful episode, we explore the importance of embracing change and adapting to evolving circumstances. 💡 From shifting market trends to technological advancements, we'll discuss strategies for navigating change with resilience and agility. 🚀 Join us as we delve into real-life examples and practical tips to help you harness the power of change as a catalyst for growth and innovation. 🌱 Whether you're facing a minor adjustment or a major pivot in your business, this episode offers valuable insights to guide you on the path to success. 🌟 Don't fear change – embrace it as an opportunity to thrive and flourish in the dynamic world of business! 💪

Don't miss exclusive subscriber only content. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe now⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – it’s just 99c! 📬 

© Lyn Prowse-Bishop – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Virtual Business Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Shows referenced:
Ep 28: Business Peaks and Troughs

Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.

Understanding the Role of Cost of Living in VA Rates! 💼💰The debate over VA rates often includes arguments about the role of cost of living, but how much weight should it truly carry? 💬 In this thought-provoking episode, we dissect the concept of cost of living and its relevance to determining VA rates. 🏠💡 From understanding the factors that influence cost of living to exploring the implications for pricing services, we'll provide clarity on this often-misunderstood topic. 🌟 Join us as we navigate the complexities of setting fair and competitive rates while considering the broader economic landscape. 🌐 Whether you're a VA seeking to price your services appropriately or a client looking to understand the value behind VA rates, this episode offers valuable insights to inform your decision-making process. 💪 Don't miss out on this essential discussion on demystifying the role of cost of living in determining VA rates! 🔍

Don't miss exclusive subscriber only content. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe now⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – it’s just 99c! 📬 

© Lyn Prowse-Bishop – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Virtual Business Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
References:
Starting a Business in Vanuatu
Other shows about rates:
What Do I Charge (exclusive subscriber only content)

Let’s Talk About Rates
Worth v Value

Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.

Elevate Your Worth: Strategies for Success as a Global VA! 🌐💼In an increasingly globalised world, today's virtual assistant must adapt and innovate to attract clients from diverse backgrounds and locations. 💡 One effective strategy? Reassessing your perceived "worth" and focusing on meeting the unique needs of your clients. 🚀 In this insightful episode, we explore the importance of providing value to clients and how it can elevate your worth as a virtual assistant. 💪 From understanding your unique strengths to tailoring your services to meet client demands, we'll discuss actionable strategies for success. 🌟 Join us as we offer real-life examples and practical tips to help you stand out and thrive in the digital age. 🔍 Whether you're a seasoned VA or just starting out, this episode offers invaluable insights to help you unlock your full potential and achieve success in your virtual assistant career. 💼 Don't underestimate your worth – embrace it and watch your opportunities multiply! 💬✨
Don't miss exclusive subscriber only content. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe now⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – it’s just 99c! 📬 

© Lyn Prowse-Bishop – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Virtual Business Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Referenced shows:
Let’s Talk About Rates
VA Training – Do Your Homework (exclusive subscriber content)
What Do I Charge? (subscriber exclusive content)

Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.

VA Rates: Insights, Considerations, and Pricing Strategies! 💼💰Join us for a candid discussion on one of the most hotly debated topics in the VA industry: rates. 💬 From how to charge to what to charge, the conversation around VA rates is ever-evolving. 🔄 In this podcast episode, we look at a recent discussion surrounding rates, offering insights and considerations to help you set your rates strategically. 💡 We'll explore the role of your experience in an office setting, the influence of your location, and the importance of valuing your expertise appropriately. 🌟 Plus, we'll highlight Nina Feldman's invaluable pricing worksheet, providing a practical tool to guide you in setting rates that reflect your worth. 📊 Whether you're a seasoned VA or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the complexities of pricing your services effectively. 💪 Don't miss out on this essential discussion on unlocking the true value of your skills and expertise as a virtual assistant! 🔍🚀

Don't miss exclusive subscriber only content. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe now⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ – it’s just 99c! 📬 

© Lyn Prowse-Bishop – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Virtual Business Show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Resources:

I mention Nina Feldman’s handy pricing worksheet during the show, which you can find here:
Pricing Worksheet

Theme music: 'The Typewriter' by Leroy Anderson. Used with express permission.