Small businesses are always looking for ways to save time, money, paper, and especially in today's economy - gas. As a virtual assistant to solo professionals, I've come across several resources that have helped me and my clients save time and money.

One task that can take up time and paper is getting a contract or agreement signed. Time and paper can be saved using an online resource called Echo Sign. This service makes getting a document signed by both parties as easy as sending an email - and it can be done in minutes. There's nothing to install and a free account can get five documents signed a month. It's been very useful in my business, making the turn around time in getting documents signed almost non-existent. Also, there's no paper to print. Documents are stored electronically. Visit their website at EchoSign.com.

Are you always jotting yourself a note on a sticky note? Save yourself money and paper by using Jott.com. Jott converts your voice into emails, text messages, reminders, lists and appointments. Just pick up the phone and send yourself a Jott. Your Jott will be in your Inbox when you get back to the office. No more sticky notes!

Would you like to receive all your bills electronically and not deal with the hassle of paper anymore? Of course you want to sign up for any e-statements you can. Another great online resource is PayTrust.com. PayTrust allows you receive, review, pay and organize all your bills online.

Do you like going to seminars to learn more about your industry but find you can't afford the gas anymore? Teleseminars may be the answer you're looking for. Save gas by never leaving the comfort of your home or office. Check out Conference Call University at CCULearning.com.

Many solo professionals are saving time and money by using the services of a virtual assistant to help create and implement online marketing for their service businesses. Search for a virtual assistant in your area and see how he or she can help.

Today, May 15, 2009, is International Virtual Assistants Day.

The virtual assistant industry continues to grow as more solo professionals have a need for quality assistance to help them grow their businesses.

Some of the online marketing strategies we use to assist solo professionals are:

1. Blogs

2. Websites

3. Ezines

4. Email marketing

5. Social networking

6. Article submissions

7. Virtual event promotion

What would you like a virtual assistant to do for you?

Many solo professionals have concerns about using a virtual assistant because they aren't sure how they will communicate effectively. With an administrative assistant in an office, there's the one-on-one personal contact that most executives are familiar with. So how do you communicate with a virtual assistant that you may never even meet in person?

With today's advanced technology, the issue of communication is easily resolved. In addition to using the telephone, most solo professionals communicate using email. In addition, there are online collaboration tools, Skype, eFax and a host of other online tools to keep in touch.

There are some basic tips to keep in mind to ensure effective communication with your virtual assistant. First, let your virtual assistant know how you best communicate. Is it by phone, email, or some other method? Once this is established, your virtual assistant can be sure your primary communications are done by this method. Some of my clients prefer the telephone, others email. By communicating the way they prefer, the client feels more at ease.

Another important aspect of communication is to determine how often you want to communicate with your virtual assistant. Do you want Friday afternoon updates on a weekly basis by email? Or would you rather talk by phone every Monday morning? It's important to have enough communication with your virtual assistant so you feel your projects are being addressed and handled in a timely manner. This is especially important if there are deadlines to meet.

Perhaps most important is to be clear in your communications. Clearly explaining what you expect of your virtual assistant will make everyone's job easier. Communication works when both you and your virtual assistant are committed to making it work.