Virtual Assistant Tip #3

As an independent contractor, every virtual assistant needs to understand the importance of having a contract with each client.

Without a signed contract, there can be chaos.

Friends as Clients
Even if your client also happens to be your friend, or you think they are your friend, you still must have a contract to protect yourself and the future of your business. Keep in mind that some friends may have a tendency to expect, or even demand leniency when it comes to making their payments.

Consistency is Key
Your income is your livelihood and you must be firm with your rate, your requirements for a contract and your working hours. By keeping your business structure the same with each client, you can avoid some migraine headaches down the road!

Twitter for Resources

Friendly & Helpful Tweeple!
Wow I love the friendliness of Twitter and the information that is so easily shared. For example, today one of the Tweeple I follow happened to mention her new-found freedom after purchasing a new battery for her laptop. I am currently researching my options for doing the same. My question to her was, "How does one properly recycle the old one?".

Recycling Rechargable Batteries & Old Cell Phones
To my surprise, not only did she quickly respond with the advice to check with my local office supply store, but another Tweeter chimed in with this wonderful resource: a site where you input your zip code and your local participating recycling facilities magically appear (maps included)! Check it out yourself ==> Call2Recycle

Hooray for Twitter and immediate answers!

Be a Productivity Warrior

A high level of productivity in my office is a direct result of being highly organized. This organization I speak of begins with a clean and efficient workspace. I strive to keep my desk tidy and this results in an enthusiasm for spending the time at my desk to complete my many client projects.

As an Executive Virtual Assistant, the top 5 organizing tips that have helped me to become a self-proclaimed Productivity Warrior are as follows:

1. I use a planner with plenty of space to write in multiple tasks per day
2. I use a black ink pen to write my business items in the planner, red ink for personal tasks and appointments
   
3. My desk is large and includes shelving and a filing cabinet, everything is within easy reach
4. As a green business, I have gone as paperless as possible with my work
5. I use time blocking and alarms in my daily work to keep me on track

Well there you have it! Now let me know what is working for you, and what isn't, and together we can share some excellent organizing ideas for the home office, or cubicle, wherever you spend your work day.