Where, oh where do I begin? I feel as if I've lived several lives in my short 30+ years on earth. I've been a model student who followed all the rules, to an English teacher, to a Virtual Assistant, to the COO of a fabulous company (guess which one!), to a woman whose favorite quotation is "Well-behaved women rarely make history."
When I came on board as Chief Operating Officer of AssistU in 2004, I had no idea how that one decision would impact my life. Since then, I've made dozens of incredible connections with other VAs and members of the AssistU community. My ideas are welcomed, and I've created some really cool things. Most importantly, I've crafted a bond with Stacy that surpasses anything we do business-wise.
At AssistU, I've seen that there is room for new ways of doing, of being, of thinking. I know that traditional models don't have to reign supreme just because they are traditional, comfortable, and familiar. I have seen that one person truly can change the world.
AssistU has given me the opportunity, first in training me to set up my own virtual assistance practice, and now as Chief Operating Officer, to see that I can live the life I want, the way I want, with people I want to surround myself, and following my life's passion and purpose - and all the while calling that "work".
For me, AssistU has been a gift, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it.
Additional Questions Answered By Dawn
1. Why is AssistU important to you, personally?I stated that above in my bio - before I read these questions. ;)
2. What do you love most about your position as COO?
That I get to collaborate with Stacy and the other AssistU community leaders. We always operate from the same standards: that virtual assistance is an incredible, innovative way to work, and that everything we do should serve both clients and VAs.
3. In your opinion, what are the most significant factors that set AU apart from any other virtual assistance training program?
We don't just train people how to start a business. We help them create their ideal lives. Anyone can tell you the nuts and bolts about starting a business, and there are tons of books out there that do just that. AssistU helps you design the kind of life you want to lead, including the work piece, and how to make that design a reality.
4. Home-based businesses are really hot right now and a lot of people interested in becoming a Virtual Assistant apply to AssistU. Only half the applicants are admitted into the VTP. In your opinion, what qualities does an applicant need to become an exceptional VA?
An exceptional VA needs to be able to take initiative, to be able to see the client's business from a bigger, worldview, not just a "what do I have to do today" view. An exceptional VA also needs to be technologically savvy and be willing -and eager- to learn whatever she needs in order to help her clients be more successful. Finally, an exceptional VA needs to be invested in her relationship with the client, and I would even go so far as to say emotionally invested. That's when the magic happens.
5. If you could offer ONE piece of essential advice to all Virtual Assistants, what would that be?
Dream, and dream big. Then go for it.