The virtual assistant industry is rapidly growing. However, there are many people that still have never heard of the term and do not know what a virtual assistant does. One of the goals here at Chief Virtual Officer is to educate people about what a virtual assistant can do to assist them in their business.

There are several definitions I've come across and yet many still do not convey to the solo professional just what a virtual assistant is and how a VA can help them in their business. Part of that may be because there are such a wide variety of tasks that virtual assistants do and some VAs only do specific tasks.

I like to try to make it as simple as possible for a prospect to understand the term virtual assistant by using terms they are familiar with. Most business people are familiar with the terms administrative assistant, executive assistant, secretary, office manager. A virtual assistant can be one or all of those things from their own office. The business person does not need to provide office space, equipment, or benefits. A virtual assistant works as an independent contractor and pays their own taxes. If the business person only needs assistance a few hours each month, a virtual assistant can provide those services and the business owner doesn't have to pay for a part-time employee.

So, how do you respond when asked - what is a virtual assistant? I'd love to read your replies. Help us educate the world about the virtual assistant industry.

Today I have a visitor. I've interviewed Vanessa Andruz, Virtual Assistant.

Tell me about yourself
I was an Executive Assistant for many years, but when I turned 50, I realized I was so tired of corporate politics…you know what I mean…so I decided it was time for a change. I researched different career paths, but none really seemed to “fit” until I found Virtual Assistance. I set up my VA business, and I’ve never looked back!

Why did you have these e-books written?
I did a LOT of research when I was setting up my business – such as what kind of business structure was best for me, how to set up my home office, how to determine my rates, the best ways to market my business and how to get over my fear of networking. It was hard work and took a lot of time. So, to save others all that research, I put what I learned into a series of e-books I call “The Adventures of Vanessa Andruz, Virtual Assistant.”

What is the series about?
It’s all about how to become a Virtual Assistant. The first e-book, Vanessa Has a Dream, describes how I left my job and decided to become a VA. It’s an unbelievable story, but I swear my adventures are as real as I am!

In the second e-book, Vanessa Becomes a Virtual Assistant, I discovered my company name – with a little help from the Universe and my mother - created a business plan template, and chose a business structure. As a bonus, I’ve included a link to a downloadable version of my business plan!

The third e-book is called Vanessa Sets Up Her Home Office. It’s full of practice advice on choosing the right office equipment and supplies for a VA business. There are research notes about computers, fax machines, scanners, ways to access the internet, and lots of good stuff. I even take my readers on a trip to my local office supply store in Washaketa, Wisconsin. What a fun place to shop!

My latest e-book, Vanessa Determines Her Services, Niche and Rates, includes a list of 300 services that VAs can provide – with the appropriate training, of course. I was amazed at how versatile VAs can be!! There’s also a downloadable Client Contract template.

What do you want the readers to get out of the series?
I hope that telling my story will give new Virtual Assistants the guidance they’re looking for when starting their own business. And I hope they enjoy the “personal touches” that I’ve included in all the e-books.

How can the readers contact you if they want further information?
They can email me, and I’m also on Facebook.

How much does your e-book cost?
Vanessa Has a Dream is free! Vanessa Becomes a Virtual Assistant is only $2.95, while Vanessa Sets Up Her Home Office and Vanessa Determines Her Services, Niche and Rates are very affordable at $4.95 each.

Where can the readers purchase your e-book?
They can find all of the books in my series at http://www.VanessaAndruz.com/Products.html.

Vanessa, thank you for stopping by my blog.

You are very welcome. Thank you, Sue, for having me.

About the Author:
Melodee Patterson of Short-term Solutions is a VA who, much like Vanessa, got tired of the corporate life and struck out on her own. She’s enjoying her role as chronicler of Vanessa’s amazing journey. (She does ask that you refrain from calling Vanessa a “fictional character.” Apparently Vanessa is a bit touchy about that fact.)

Vanessa Andruz

Book Summary:
The Adventures of Vanessa Andruz, Virtual Assistant series is not only full of practical advice for prospective Virtual Assistants, it’s also a fun story. You’ll meet Vanessa’s parents who live in Sedona, Arizona, where her mother reads auras for a living; Vanessa’s friend, Marci, an insurance adjuster unlike any insurance adjuster you’ve ever met; and Vanessa’s ex-husband, Mark, currently living with his “beach bunny” in Cozumel! Check out the series today.