1. A life defining moment for me was when I was driving my car late one night, and my windscreen met with a jumping kangaroo. I rolled 3 times narrowly missing a huge pole, and came out without a scratch. Soonafter I adopted my personal philosophy "carpe diem" (seize the day).
2. I commuted to work daily by train for 4 hours to Sydney for 10 years. Back then I often dreamt about getting off those tracks and running my own business, so now I fully appreciate working from home.
3. In ’98 I bought a ticket to go to Europe for 6 weeks. 1 year later I returned to Oz with my husband whom I met and married in the UK!
4. As a kid I saw a scenic picture of the beautiful Greek island Santorini and one of my goals was to one day see it in real life. When I did this in ‘98 it was far more breathtaking than any picture I’d ever seen.
5. In my 20’s I did a lot of road trips with my BFF around Australia, seeing Queensland, Canberra, Melbourne, Adelaide and eventually even living in Perth. Now I'm grateful to be living near Sydney in the area I love the best! (see video below)
6. I was born in Oz, but like many, my origins are from eastern Europe. One of the benefits I get from this heritage is celebrating 2 Christmases (Orthodox) and New Year Eves which is a tradition I have gladly continued with my kids!
7. We have just recently returned to Oz after living in Croatia for 2.5 years. There I started blogging and my Virtual Assistant business. To find out more about my adventures, click here.
8. The most “dangerous” thing I’ve ever done was white water rafting whilst on holiday in Bali, Indonesia. It was either that or bungy jumping!
9. My music tastes are very eclectic – in my old tape (remember those?) and cd collection I had every music genre there is, but my all time favourite band is The Beatles, and the song “Let It Be”. You can listen to my DJ_VA tracks here!
10. More than 20 years ago I read a piece of writing called Desiderata by Max Ehrmann written in 1927, and to this day it still inspires me.
What interesting facts would be in your Top 10?
Alex
10 Interesting Facts About Me!
A Clayton's Secretary - not just a VA network
Recently, I was fortunate enough to interview Kathie Thomas, owner of "A Clayton's Secretary" (ACS), an Australian Virtual Assistant networking group established in 1994, now supporting members in 17 countries.
Anyhow, when Kathie agreed I was surprised and honoured as I know just how busy she is. Read on and you’ll see what I mean!
You are most welcome. Yes, I've seen the birth of the industry - not realising at the time that was what was happening. It never ceases to amaze me what we can do as VAs, and we're really only limited by our own abilities and thinking. It's not till a Client asks for some things that it occurs to me "here's something else we can do".
Some think we're employees or cheap labour and we're not. However, more and more are learning everyday that we are a professional industry in our own right, and that our value is in what we can achieve for our Clients, and the amount of time and money we can save them.
The origin of our industry is that the early VAs were actually corporate PAs, and we were used to second-guessing our bosses and knowing what their needs were. It's important that VAs today have a similar ability. They need to get to know and understand their Client's business and perhaps even the related industry, so they can provide the best possible service. As an example, I service business coaches and professional speakers, so I've even joined their industry associations so I can really get in there to understand their industry.
My latest book "It Happened By Design" kind of happened by accident – I guess like
my previous one which started out as a blog. I was going to write a different book but I still don't have enough material for it yet, and then this one just kind of jumped out at me. It's about real-life extraordinary happenings to ordinary people. Many of the stories within are things that happened in my own life, and I knew there would be others who had stories to tell, so I put out a call to authors worldwide for contributions and was thrilled with the result. You've achieved so much in your career already, even nominated Australian of the Year 2008 and again this year. Is there anything left for you to do?
I'm already planning my next book and have a few other plans up my sleeve, including looking at helping others to write and publish books.
If you could go back in time, would you do anything differently?
I'd probably market more in earnest. At the beginning I was so focused on just earning the $$ as I saw that as the immediate need. Had I realised how important it was to lay some foundations, I would have done a lot more of that too.
My grandmother - she's passed away now but was a strong influence in my early life and I still quote her today.
It's word association time:
Dreams - goals
Failure - success
Challenge - options
Business - life
For more information on all of Kathie’s services or blogs, visit her blogroll. Mrs Perpetual Motion indeed!
Alex
NEW YEAR - NEW BLOG!
After months of designing and tweaking it's finally here, the launch of my newest baby!
When I started blogging back in April last year, I really had no idea where I was headed with it but it's become something I really enjoy. I cut my teeth on my first blog writing about anything and everything personal and professional. Finding inspiration was easy as I was living overseas and starting up a new business.
Then I started experimenting with different layouts and accessories, throwing myself headfirst into the blogosphere. I joined various forums and networks, discovering the huge benefits of using social media, which opened up a whole new cyberworld to me.
Now I've got a decent general grasp, but find the more I learn, the more I realise there is to know. I come across something new only to have it lead me off into totally different direction and that's what I like most, discovering something new I didn't even know existed.
Anyhow, what you now see before you is close to what I originally had in mind when I decided to create my own site many moons ago. It's an ongoing WIP (work in progress) and no doubt I'll be constantly making changes, but for the most part, I hope it's the sort of blog you can get a good read out of and feel like you've benefited in some way.
I must take the time to say a big thank you to those who have heavily influenced me on my blogging journey. First up is the wonderful Kathie Thomas, founder of "A Clayton's Secretary", a great VA network I'm proud to be a member of. She basically helped kickstart my VA career, and was the first to suggest blogging might be the right platform for me.
Also many thanks to Lindy Asimus, Personal Business Coach of Design Business Engineering. Lindy has been instrumental to my development in so many ways that I don't know even know where to start! I doubt I would have learnt 20% of the things I now know had it not been for her constant guidance and patience.
There are also many others I have met along my cyber travels that have helped shaped me as a person over the past year, so to all of you I can only say a heartfelt thank you and wish you much happiness, health and success for 2009.
Now, make yourself a nice cuppa, kick back and take a look around, and please let me know what you think!
Alex
WHAT IS A VIRTUAL ASSISTANT (VA)?
A Virtual Assistant (VA) is a business owner who provides a wide range of office support services usually from home. Services can include word processing, administratrative and secretarial support, personal assistance, digital transcriptions, desktop publishing (dtp), online research and co-ordinating, just to name a few.
HISTORY OF VIRTUAL ASSISTANCE
Working from home is certainly not a new idea, and today it is fast gaining popularity for obvious reasons. Everything from increasing petrol prices, many hours of commuting, average wages, long working hours, frequent retrenchments and a need to better balance work and family commitments, has prompted workers to look at opportunities to earn a living from home.
Women in particular see the benefits of running their own show as it is the best of both worlds. You are still able to have a successful and rewarding career, without sacrificing the welfare of yourself or your family. You have the ability to work more practical hours that suit you and your clients best doing the tasks you prefer, are skilled at, or have the most experience in.
Due to the current economic climate, many professions are facing fewer job opportunities, however with VAs the demand has increased and it is now one of the fastest growing industries today.
While the history of VAs as a concept dates back to the 1970s, modern technology has made it easier than ever for office support professionals to provide services to big, medium and small business owners remotely from their own home office. Businesses have started to realise how cost-effective this alternative is, making the shift from hiring p/time or fulltime workers to outsourcing. This trend is by no means a passing phase, it is here to stay!
The history of VAs emerged from the 1970s as the idea of creating independent companies to provide secretarial services began. Then in the 1990's one innovative woman, Stacy Brice, envisioned a new twist on the traditional relationship between a secretary and her boss. She developed the concept of the VA as a partner with her client's business, as opposed to just a secretary who does administrative tasks with no real understanding of the company or its' business goals. By 1992, Stacy Brice had begun working as a VA independently from her home and a new industry was born.
In Australia, Kathie M. Thomas pioneered the VA industry establishing the first VA network called "A Clayton's Secretary" in the southern hemisphere. 
She started operating a home-based secretarial business in March 1994 and first went online in January 1996. In April 1996 she started a network of operators as her workload grew, bringing on board other women who also wanted to work from home as she was doing. When the group became aware of the new title "Virtual Assistant" being used in the US, they soon adopted that, alongside the title 'Homebased Secretary' and gradually phased out the latter title in the late 1990s.
A Clayton’s Secretary provides support, guidance and networking opportunities for those seeking work as a VA, as well as those looking to hire one.
ABOUT ME
Hello and welcome! Thanks for dropping by to find out a little more about me and what I do.
My name is Alexandra Popovic and I started my Virtual Assistance (VA) business in May 2008 whilst living overseas. I am Australian born and bred but I have been fortunate to have lived in places such as the UK, Perth (Western Australia), Croatia (Eastern Europe) and now Sydney.
I am married and the proud mother of 3 kids, which were my prime motivation for starting my home business as I wanted to do something I loved that is rewarding, without sacrificing the wellbeing of myself or my family.
I discovered social media over 3 years ago and starting blogging whilst overseas – you can read my initiation into the blogoshere here! On this blog you'll find a healthy mix of personal insights and posts relating to the VA industry, small business and social media.
I love writing, reading, challenging myself everyday and inspiring others to do the same. My life's motto is something I really believe and try to live: "Carpe Diem“ (seize the day) and describe myself as a geek-in-progress and socialmediarite! To learn more, see "10 Interesting Facts About Me!"
I'm a happy Twittaholic and you'll find me tweeting most days about anything and everything, usually with a dash of humour. ;) If you're on Twitter, come and tweet me hello. But be warned, I'm only interested in having fun, learning, positivity and interaction! Check out my welcome video below:
For more details about my experience and services, or to inquire about either my FREE 1 hour business consultation or social media evaluation, you can easily email, skype, or live chat with me via the right sidebar links as I'm always happy to discuss your support needs.
Have a great day!
Alexandra
BENEFITS TO YOUR BUSINESS
• The client only pays by the hour for the work actually done, at that rate of service
• There are no overheads such as office space and equipment, employee training, taxation, superannuation, holiday pay etc
• You have the flexibility and convenience of urgent work done outside of office hours, on weekends and public holidays
• VAs are already highly experienced in their field therefore no training in software or work processes is necessary
• If you are an International Client, you have the huge advantage of time difference. You can sleep whilst your task is being done and have it back completed by the time you wake up!
• You are working with someone who is also running their own business, and is familiar with certain aspects such as marketing and finances
• A VA wants to help you achieve your business goals, so they will take the initiative rather than wait for your instructions
• As a VA is working from home in a comfortable and secure environment, you will receive a better quality of service with a higher level of productivity
• You can easily increase or decrease the number of hours you require support depending on your requirements
• VAs are far more dedicated to providing great service to you as their business depends solely on your business
• There is no time or money wasted on personal days off or breaks
• A VA's schedule is tailor-made to your needs eg you can converse with your VA anytime of the day that is convenient to you ie early morning or evenings
• Your VA also has a network of other VAs which can be a great resource for additional services if necessary
• Once you develop a mutually trusting relationship with your VA, you have a partner in your business
CHECK OUT MY VA VIDEOS BELOW!
VIRTUAL ASSISTANT FAQs
WHY USE A VA INSTEAD OF A TEMP?
There are many differences between a VA and temp placed by a recruitment agency. The most important one is a VA's loyalties are first and foremost to YOU, their Client, whereas a temp is selected, reports back to and is paid by the agency.
As with a VA, a temp is also paid an hourly rate as agreed by the agency and you. However, the temp is paid that rate whether they are busy, doing menial tasks, or twiddling their thumbs. VAs are only paid by the hour for the work actually done with the rate according to that service.
Most VAs have extensive experience and skills, however temping (as the name suggests) is considered more as a means of filling a support gap temporarily or even a stepping stone. As such, a temp is not particularly reliable should you wish to develop a long term relationship with one person. You may find that the temp you've had before may not be available the next time you require assistance, so you will have to spend time getting to know and/or train another person.
Also, should you require additional assistance or a particular skill, your VA has access to many other VAs via their network, so you can be sure you will get the service you require.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM USING A VA?
Business of all sizes can benefit from using a VA. A large company may find using a VA for overflow work to be useful on special projects. Today many large companies are downsizing, so hiring a VA is a very cost-effective solution compared to a p/time or job-share employee.
Perhaps you have enough administrative work for 2 full time secretaries but they are highly stressed? What if your PA takes maternity leave, and you don't really require all day assistance but would prefer someone to just help you stay on track and organised? A VA could provide much relief to everyone!
A smaller business may choose to hire a VA for a specific task ie invoicing, online research, presentations etc. Business owners are very busy people, often multi-tasking and working very long hours, so this would free up much needed time allowing you to focus on the important bigger picture.
If you find you just don't have enough time or resources to do your job and market your business properly, hiring a VA to look after this area would be very beneficial.
DO I NEED TO USE A LOCAL VA?
Not necessarily. Due to the progress of technology and the internet, location doesn't impact our ability to do your work. It can be distributed via email, IM (skype), fax, telephone, post or you can elect to give your VA access to your network.
For international Clients the time difference is a huge benefit, as your task can be completed and sent back to you before you wake!
HOW DO I COMMUNICATE ASSIGNMENTS TO A VA?
Whatever you are most comfortable with, as tasks can be given via email, skype chat, fax, or phonecalls. The key to a successful VA-Client relationship is communication, and you will be given tips before you start working together.
HOW DO I KNOW I CAN TRUST A VA AS I'VE NEVER MET THEM IN PERSON? HOW DO I KNOW THEY WILL KEEP MY BUSINESS INFORMATION CONFIDENTIAL?
If you are considering using a VA, take the time to get to know them a little beforehand to see if your personalities will complement eachother. It is much the same as hiring any office support (except in the case of hiring a temp where that is left up to the recruitement agency). It is very worthwhile learning about a VA's character in addition to their skills and experience.
Also, in order to find out how a VA can best assist you, it is advised you take 15mins to plan out tasks you need to and are happy to delegate.
A VA's success depends solely on their Client's success and satisfaction. Without your business we wouldn't have our business, so it is within our best interests to continually provide top service to you. That also means we take our commitment to you and your business information very seriously. A contract is issued to you before any work is started, to ensure you are happy with all the terms and conditions. Also, signing a Client's contract is not an issue.
HOW ARE FILES SENT AND RECEIVED?
- Fax
- Post
- Courier
- FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
- Instant messenger (IM)
HOW DOES A VA TRACK THEIR BILLABLE TIME AND HANDLE EXPENSES?
Most VAs use a digital punch clock to keep track of time on each task. This is a highly accurate and effective method to ensure accurate billing and tracking. You can have as much or as little detail in your invoice.
Expenses specific to a Client’s project will be billed in addition to the hourly charge eg postage, photocopying (colour & b&w), faxing, scanning etc.
MORE QUESTIONS? PLEASE EMAIL ME!
BUSINESS ADVICE
Lindy Asimus, Personal Business Coach of Design Business Engineering, specialises in small to medium enterprise (SME) business coaching and posts on the informative popular blog ActionBites.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE FOR SME OWNERS TODAY?
There is a thought that the current economic situation means that there is a different approach needed for the small business owner to keep afloat. In reality, while there is even more need to be clear on managing all the parts of the business effectively, spending well and eliminating waste, these are practical approaches that should be followed even in good times.
Spending money wisely in business, and ensuring that there is good measurement of the metrics that apply to the different sections of the business, are important keys that let us know that we are on track to achieving great results. But we need to do more than measure – we need good systems in place to ensure quality standards, consistency in delivery, and a degree of predictability. There is never a time that this is not important in business... though sadly, it is most frequently not practiced. Indeed it is very usual for the small business owner to neglect some areas that are quite critical to the well-being of the business, and all who work there, and of course, this is reflected in the profitability, and even the value of the business as a saleable asset.
HOW IMPORTANT IS A BUSINESS PLAN?
The business plan is very important! That is, if by business plan, we are speaking of the document that is written and encompasses the blueprint of what the business is there for, what the values of the business is, what the purpose of the business is, and details the working plan for the business to follow over the next period of time, and into the future.
Very often the idea of a working business plan is confused with that fanciful document written for a bank with the intention of raising a loan, and completely useless to a business owner from the point-of-view of driving the management and team in how the business runs and grows profits.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIP YOU GIVE BUSINESS OWNERS?
My best tip to a business owner or anyone at all... is to know ... really know... what it is that you want.
This seemingly simple thing can be surprisingly difficult. Many people need help to pinpoint just what that is and to be able to articulate it into a working principle.
Without knowing we lack a compelling vision and focus and drive to achieve the life and the outcomes that are most important to us.
MORE QUESTIONS? CLICK HERE TO EMAIL LINDY
SERVICES
Click here for examples of tasks you should be delegatingPack 1 - 5 hours virtual assistance (+ 1hr FREE valid Nov & Dec 2011 only) $200
travel & accommodation arrangements, calendar & email management,
contact list management, scheduling meetings & internet research
$215
Tasks include: desktop publishing, Powerpoint presentations etc
$225
Tasks include: organising seminars & conferences,
special projects & troubleshooting
For payment options or more information, please click here to email me
"Social Media Kickstarter Profile" package
"Twitter OR Facebook Presence" package
"Socialmediarite Impact" package
To discuss your needs and details of pricing, please contact me.
* All prices quoted in Australian dollars ex GST
NOTE: Additional expenses such as postage, courier, faxing, photocopying (colour or b&w), scanning, binding, laminating, special supplies eg for printing of marketing materials such as brochures, photographic printing paper, labels, envelopes etc & international/long distance landline calls will be itemised on client's invoice.
PAYMENT FACILITIES AVAILABLE
Australian money order or cheque to “Alexandra Popovic”, Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) & Paypal
