I'm home grown, meaning I was born and raised in Texas. I have resided in Dallas, TX for the last 20+ years. I discovered AssistU in 1998, and I still consider my training there one of the best things I've ever done for myself. I'm going into my 9th year as a VA, and I've never been happier, personally or professionally. I primarily do web site maintenance, broadcasting and managing ezines, shopping carts - pretty much everything related to having a successful online presence. Working with coaches led me to my specialty, web maintenance; at the time, there wasn't anyone else doing this. Back then, when a web designer created a web site, they were done with it. I've become somewhat an expert in this area and love working with my clients. I get to work with a lot of my VA colleagues because they will handle the administrative responsibilities for a client, and I'll handle the web end of things. I recently started working with a new client whom I share with a VA, who was a former student. How cool is that? :)
I have been married to my husband John since August, 2000. I love my husband very much; he is my best friend and is always there for me. We've been through a lot together, but we have a strong, wonderful marriage. John and I don't have any children, but we do have eight nephews and two nieces whom we visit often.
In our spare time we both ride our Harley Davidson® motorcycles. We love to travel, although not always on our Harleys. I am also a girly-girl in that I love makeup, jewelry, clothes, and shoes. I love taking care of myself with massages, pedicures, and facials. I am definitely a voluptuary!
Additional Questions Answered By Desirée
1. Describe what you do as a trainer. What do you love most about it?As I trainer, I give students the foundation they need to start and sustain a successful Virtual Assistance practice. I enjoy it way more than I ever thought I would. It's so rewarding watching my students blossom into confident, successful Virtual Assistants.
2. Exactly what does AssistU bring to the table in training VAs that will give them a different perspective than any other training could?
In a word - everything. We give VAs the tools and foundation to have a successful VA practice. These tools include everything from relationship/partnership skills to learning to set and abide by their own standards and boundaries. With AU, it's not about knowing the technology, but more about learning to be attractive so as to attract the right client for you.
3. In your opinion, what does it take to be successful in the VTP?
It takes hard work, communication, dedication, and the desire to always be learning. You can't be afraid to make mistakes, but more importantly, you have to be willing to learn from your mistakes.
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?
Is this a trick question? Applying for and getting accepted to AssistU, way back in 1998! :)
5. What one piece of advice would you give to anyone considering the option of starting their own VA business?
Don't let fear hold you back. Don't be afraid to fail. You've got to be brave enough to find out what works for you and to do it; you are inevitably going to make some mistakes. Learn from those mistakes and grow and shine.