Everyone has a different story as to why they set up their business. I’d like to share mine, so here it goes…
After having my little one, I was lucky enough to have the full year maternity leave. But by the time I was due to go back to work, I was literally clawing the walls. I couldn’t wait get back to what I enjoy doing. I was looking forward to having my routine again.
After working compressed full-time hours, running around to and from the nursery, as well as all the personal errands and tasks to do, it was taking its toll. I could slowly feel myself burning out and I knew something had to change.
It was in this role that a colleague mentioned that they were looking at becoming a Virtual Assistant. I had never heard of this before, but the seed had been planted. It took me about a year before I gave it any serious thought and it was at this point that I started looking into it properly.
What is a Virtual Assistant I hear you ask? Well, a VA is a freelance PA who carries out administration tasks for their clients. This can vary from minute taking to transcription to day to day admin. It depends on what the VA specialises in.
Anyway, back to the story… I had never thought of starting my own business before, but my husband encouraged me to give it a go. I could have given in to the fear of the unknown, but fear of missing out was an even stronger driver for me, so I decided to get out of my comfort zone. What did I have to lose? What’s the worst that could happen?
After I decided to take the plunge, I started researching and reading everything I could about being a VA. I took a VA course which not only gave me the tools and information that I needed to set up my business but also helped me with mindset. I had been an employee since leaving school, being a business owner would be completely different and I needed to prepare myself.
I created my website and began working on getting ZVA up and running before my little one started school. I launched in September 2017 as he had started school full time and I had more free time to dedicate to building the business and start working for clients. I hired an Accountant, purchased my insurance and prepared my contracts. I was all set.
What’s followed has been really fulfilling. I have expanded my knowledge in different industries and tasks that I didn’t have previous experience in. I now have regular clients. Securing each one has felt like a tremendous achievement for me. This has made my confidence in my skills and myself soar.
Since being on the VA journey, I have learnt new skills, been networking with new people and built great relationships with other business owners. I have worked on my mindset, I read regularly, and I tend to listen more. I also meet up with an accountability buddy to ensure that I am going in the right direction and keeping on track.
By networking with other business owners, going to training sessions and experimenting with new business channels, I am ensuring that I am continuing to grow as a business owner and as a person.
ZVA has given me the opportunity of continuing doing the work I enjoy but have the flexibility around family life. I can attend his nativity plays and school meetings without getting permission first. I just work around them. The perfect work life balance that I was looking for.
I would say that being a freelancer is not all coffee and lunch dates. You end up working longer hours and it is very hard to get started. But, if you are dedicated and hardworking, all the hours you put in will be worth it.
What is next for ZVA? Who knows, but I am excited to see.
Zoe Marden set up ZVA in September 2017. ZVA specialises in transcription, minute taking and copy typing. For more information or to discuss your requirements further, please feel free to email info@zva.org.uk.