They also take care of their own expenses, which again saves you money that you would normally have to spend on benefits, source deductions and lost time wages.

Most VA's are self-employed entrepreneurs, and unlike a staff member, they have a vested interest in success of your business. They work with you to help you keep up and to grow. To most, it isn't simply a 9 to 5 job, but a career choice that they take great pride in.

Most VA's have local client lists, but are also able to assist 'from afar'. By using any of communication devices available today (ie. phone, fax, email, etc), projects can be accomplished without ever having to meet face to face. And, with growing ease of Internet, finding a VA almost anywhere in world is quite simple to accomplish as well. By simply typing 'virtual assistant' into any search engine, you can locate one person who can take some of load off of your shoulders.

Whether you are a home-based business who needs a website developed, a small business that is looking for a way out from under paperwork or are part of a large corporation that has an extra assignment that no one seems to have time to do, a Virtual Assistant can be answer to your problems. They can be your sounding board and offer feedback and advice when a fresh perspective is needed.

After project has been completed, I like to send a personalized, hand-written note on suitable stationery.

Now… where to go from here? Just because this particular project is finished, it doesn’t mean that you should just put their file away and forget about them. On contrary… you have to stay in touch with them. If they have used your services and are very happy with outcome, they will probably need you in future, or know someone who does.

If you happen to have client’s birth date, send them a nice card on their special day. If you don’t have that date, there are still other ways to stay in touch. One is to send a card on special holidays, such as Christmas. With these special holiday cards, it is not recommended that you send a business card with it. These type of cards should show that you care and don’t have an ulterior motive to your action.

So, what about rest of year? They say that you need to be in right place at right time to take advantage of some opportunities. But if you aren’t in right place, forefront of you client’s mind when they may need your services, you may lose out. You need to keep in touch with them throughout year. You need to send them something that they will hang onto.

The most cost effective way to do this is to send them a newsletter. If you have a business that is online and you have cyberspace clients, start an online ezine and send it out on a regular basis. Fill it full of great links and articles to help your clients. And, it doesn’t hurt to mention their business in an issue. For local clients, put together a print version of your newsletter and keep them informed about what is happening with your company and your other clients. Again, putting a free mention about their business will be something that they will really appreciate.

Staying in touch with you clients and contacts is vital for repeat and referral business. When time comes that they, or someone they know, are in need of your product or service, make sure that they remember you, your business and how you can help them.