As a child, I loved it when my grandmother would give me things to type on her ancient manual typewriter. In high school I took typing and shorthand – those classes that many thought were boring - but I loved them. Later, I would type term papers for my aunts. It seemed only natural that as an adult, administrative support would be my chosen profession.
After 20+ years providing senior level administrative support in the military and corporate worlds, I longed for something different. Like so many of my AssistU colleagues, I read an article by Anastacia Brice in an administrative professional's magazine about virtual assistance and knew that I had found my answer. I graduated from the VTP in 2005 and haven't looked back. In 2008 I also completed the Certified Professional Virtual Assistant (CPVA) exam.
The entire AssistU experience has been more than I could ever have dreamed of. I learned so much about myself, as well as how to create standards and boundaries, how to build a strong practice, and about the principles of the Law of Attraction. The amazing-ness (I know – that is a made up word) didn't stop when I graduated - this community continues to support and "feed" me each and every day. There truly is no competition here - just lots of love, support, and lessons to be learned. I am grateful for the experience and for the continued opportunities AssistU makes possible.
Today, I have a thriving practice and work with fabulous clients. I live a more balanced life and control my own destiny. When I'm not supporting clients, working on my business, or leading VTP classes, you'll find me hanging out with my beloved husband and our wonderful children.
Additional Questions Answered By Lorri
1. Describe what you do as a trainer. What do you love most about it?I am a tour guide, walking students through their VTP journey and pointing out important and interesting features along the way that will help them to create the business of their dreams. It is amazing to watch students discover the endless possibilities that are available to them once they gain some clarity about themselves and what they want to create.
2. Exactly what does AssistU bring to the table in training VAs that will give them a different perspective than any other training could?
There really isn't any other training out there like AssistU. The standards are very high, you will learn more about yourself than you ever thought possible, and as a result, you will gain the tools you need to build an amazing practice. We don't give you what you need to start your business - we teach you how to create what you need.
3. In your opinion, what does it take to be successful in the VTP?
You have to have a real thirst for learning new things. Part of that involves having an open mind – you have to set aside what you already know (or think you know) about how things work and open yourself up to the concepts and tools we introduce you to.
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 the best decision is that you've made in building your own business?
Without a doubt, my decision to attend AssistU was the best thing I could have done in building my business. I firmly believe that I could not have built the successful practice I enjoy today without the foundation I learned to build at AssistU.
5. What one piece of advice would you give to anyone considering the option of starting their own VA business?
Understand that while being a VA can be incredibly rewarding, it isn't necessarily easy and it doesn't happen overnight. You have to be willing to invest in yourself and work smart.