I was born with a cosmopolitan heart in a small town and that has set the tone for my life since. It seems like I have always been searching for that perfect place to live and the perfect job to work. I have lived in California, Michigan, and New Mexico. My husband and I have been back in Michigan for 10 years now, but look forward to the day when we can move back to New Mexico which is our 'home away from home.' I have worked at more jobs than my resume can safely hold!
My journey into VA'ing has been a case of "the longest way around is the shortest way home." I first came upon the concept of a VA, and AssistU, in 2000, and the interest was immediate. What a great way to combine my work experience with my computer experience. I love being involved in a variety of different projects and seeing them to fruition. In spite of the attraction, I was not ready at the time to jump into the virtual world. When my work situation changed (once again) in 2001, I decided it was time to take my life in a new direction. I enrolled in Davenport University to complete my bachelor's degree, and in April of 2004 I graduated in the top ten percent of my class with a BS in Management. With my degree in hand, I was more than ready to do something new, and once again AssistU crossed my path. This time, I am happy to report, I was ready to apply to AssistU's Virtual Training Program (VTP) and own my own business.
I opened Virtual Partnering in July of 2004, and with that finally found the perfect 'job' for me! Little did I know that owning my own business was what I had been looking for since the age of 10 when I began working with my step-mother assisting her with her office work. I have a variety of clients that keep me on my virtual toes on a daily basis! I love the variety and love being active in *my* business.
On a personal note, I have been married to Michael (who is a wonderful person and my biggest supporter) since September 1989, and we live in Michigan with our five cats. My cats share my office with me and love to help me relocate papers, answer emails, and delete files they think I no longer need.
Additional Questions Answered By Cindy
1. Describe what you do as a trainer. What do you love most about it?As a trainer, I help students put a foundation under their dream and then help them realize that dream. I love watching the students go from thinking 'Can I do this?' to 'I CAN do this!' Watching the students grow over the 20 weeks is an awesome experience, and each student brings something new to the class and the experience.
2. Exactly what does AssistU bring to the table in training VAs that will give them a different perspective than any other training could?
AssistU's training program teaches students how to partner with their ideal clients on an equal footing. AU also teaches students about abundance and that there is no competition, as we are all unique and will find our ideal client based on that uniqueness. I don't know of another training program out there that does this.
3. In your opinion, what does it take to be successful in the VTP?
Determination, dedication, and the desire to see your dream come true! Also, understanding that you are a business owner is essential. Be willing to make mistakes and learn from those mistakes. Don't beat yourself up. Make sure that you have the support systems around you while going through the VTP and that those systems stay with you when you finish the VTP so that you can build your business successfully.
4. Being an AssistU officer and alumni really puts you in the position of role model for new VAs and the VTP students. Being a role model requires lots of good decision making. What do you think is the best decision you've made in building your own business?
Applying to and being accepted into the VTP. This allowed me to put a foundation under my business and gave me the direction I needed to make my dreams happen!
5. What one piece of advice would you give to anyone considering the option of starting their own VA business?
Besides applying to the VTP?!! Believe in yourself and your dreams and don't let anyone take those away from you!