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Should EVERY Business Have a Facebook Fan Page?

January 5, 2012 By

I am frequently asked: “Should ALL businesses have a Facebook Fan Page?”



That is a GREAT question!

At our initial meeting with a potential client, I find many business owners want a Facebook Fan Page for the following reasons

1) Everyone has one

2) It will be archived by Google

3) It is part of a larger marketing strategy

I have encouraged clients, who are confused, to get a plan in place to determine how we can best help them. There have been occasions, when they call me and say “I don’t think a FB Fan Page will help me because of…..”.

I find, the plan will not only give them a strategy, but give them a target market beyond their Facebook friends’ list.

To be 100% honest, my clients who had a marketing strategy in place, and utilized the Facebook Fan Page as a tool in that plan, were generally more successful in their overall business, than those who created a Fan Page because they felt it was the “right” thing to do.

(There are MANY incredible strategist, coaches and mentors on Inside919 who can help us get that strategy in place!)

So, my Angel vote is: NO, not every business should have a Facebook Fan Page.

What are your thoughts? Do you think EVERY company should have a Facebook Fan Page?

Thanks ahead of time for your feedback!










Angel Lebak ~ Virtual Assistant’s Posts – 919 Business Networking – Local Business Owners & Professionals

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Who Are Your Trusted Advisors?

January 5, 2012 By

“Always surround yourself with people who are a lot smarter than you” – George Steinbrenner


That is an incredible statement, from a man I would NEVER think would take advice from anyone – but George Steinbrenner, does take advice….from his trusted advisors.





Yesterday was an amazing day for me. I attended two meetings, back to back. The interesting part? Both meetings gave me powerful insight into my business.



For someone who is incredibly comfortable behind the scenes, this is very different for me. When I have people (whom I trust and respect), view my “baby”…my business….I am vulnerable.



It was scary….but only for a moment



I soon realized that each of these business owners truly had MY best interest at heart. That was what made the difference for me. They truly didn’t have a “hook” to sell me something or promote themselves….they wanted to help.



And for the first time…in a long time…I allowed myself to receive that help.



That is the power of this network. Each of these amazing business owners, I met in some way thru Inside919.



How about you? Do you have trusted advisors? Do you have people who truly have your best interest at heart?



Get to know some of the people around this network….you will be VERY glad you did!

Angel Lebak ~ Virtual Assistant’s Posts – 919 Business Networking – Local Business Owners & Professionals

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Insid919: Top 10 Community Building Tips

January 5, 2012 By

I have been on Inside919 for about a year now. When I joined, there were 800 members, now there are up to almost 2,800.




It has been an incredible journey, and I have learned A LOT about myself personally, as well as in relation to my business. I have also met some of the smartest minds in their respective industries. The greatest part is that many are now beyond colleagues and now trusted friends.

I would like to submit to you the “Top 10 Community Building Tips”, that fellow Insiders encouraged me in when I joined last year.


I follow each of the below items and continue to reap the rewards of one of the most amazing communities. It is my desire that you would appreciate and benefit as well.





Top 10 Inside919 Community Building Tips



1. Be Present



Inside919 is different than other communities – it truly is a “Community of Relationships!” You will find as in any other business relationship, the more you connect, engage and find in common, the easier it is to refer business one to the other.



2. Be Transparent



We all know people (and or businesses) that present themselves one way online, and then in person are a completely different story. Be who you are….all the time. People will respect you more and appreciate YOU for YOU.



3. Engage



Get to know the amazing people on the network. Read a blog you like? Write a note to the author (their Name and Photo are is Linked) and/or comment on the post. This lets the writer know the content had value (good or bad). Also, it shows the other community members that you care beyond yourself.



4. Pull vs. Push Marketing



The nice thing about the in depth profiles on Inside919 is people can learn a lot about you BEFORE they ever read a blog post of yours, see a picture of your product OR meet you in person. They can also see if you have a product / service that they can refer to some of their clients. If they have a question about what you do – they will ask. :o )



5. Be Respectful



This is a large community with many different types of businesses, personalities, talents and understandings. Not everyone is going to agree with every post written by every person. It is okay to disagree – let’s do it in a respectful manner. Remember: part of our online reputation is how others “perceive” our interactions one to another.



6. Ask Questions



Personally, this has been one of the best ways I have met some of the most amazing business owners in the community. When I have a question – I post it in the “How Do I do…?” Forum.



Ask an honest question that you truly want an answer for. It is not in the best interest of your reputation to ask a question, while promoting your own product. We have many helpful Insiders here who are eager to help.



7. Be “Inside Link” for Others



Get to know the new Insiders who join the network. Make an extra effort to talk to the Insiders who are attending the Tuesday Local Coffee Breaks. The powerful thing that happens when you truly want to help others and make connections FOR them, is it builds your reputation as a person. The discussion about what “widget” you sell comes later.



8. Follow Thru with other Insiders



If you have had a beneficial meeting with an Insider, go to their wall and post a quick note about the meeting. It gives people who may visit their Profile later, another perspective of them.



9. Need a (Fill In the Blank)?



No need for YellowPages any more…if you do not have a good resource, for a need that you, a friend, colleague or client is looking for, you can search Inside919!

  • Click on the Insiders Tab (top)
  • White Box below the Sponsors
  • Type in the words you want to search for (for example: plumber)
  • All of the people who used the word “plumber” in their profile will pull up.
  • You can also click on Advanced Search, for a more in-depth search.


10. Use the Golden Rule.



No matter how old we get, the same truth still follows: “Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you”.



As we treat Insiders with the same level of respect, understanding and confidence that we desire to be treated with….this community will continue to grow and thrive.




Special thanks to the initial Insiders who encouraged me in these very tips over a year ago. My business and I thank you!



I hope these tips have been helpful to you as well!

Angel Lebak ~ Virtual Assistant’s Posts – 919 Business Networking – Local Business Owners & Professionals

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Thank You! A New Day for AssistantAngel – Virtual Assistants Raleigh

January 5, 2012 By

If you can dream it, then you can achieve it. You will get all you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want. ~ Zig Ziglar


This is a familiar quote we have heard many times from Zig Ziglar. I have experienced the power and success of this quote in the past year. A large portion of that success is due to the connections and relationships I have made here on www.Inside919.com.


AssistantAngel – A team of Virtual Assistants in Raleigh, NC has been in existence for less than a year. The explosive growth, changes and empowerment in my life has been incredibly humbling.


Here are few of the key life lessons I learned over the past year:


1. Do Not Despise Small Beginnings

I often hear people say “your business exploded overnight”. The truth is, the SEEDS for AssistantAngel began long before I ever opened the doors of my VA business.

I was working part time with a company in early 2009 and met many wonderful and passionate business owners because of this company. The interesting thing was, the parent company we all worked for went belly up. However, the RELATIONSHIPS that were built during that challenging season truly did set the foundation for future business for ALL of us. Today, many of my most trusted advisors I met during that season.


2. Surround Yourself with Positive People who have a Servant’s Heart

I can not list all of the people who have helped, encouraged and inspired me over the past year. There are too many to mention. MANY of them live and relate right here on www.Inside919.com. These amazing people do the same thing for others they did for me: encourage, build and teach to the heart of the small business owner. My goal is to be that voice of encouragement for others during what can be a very challenging time.


3. Local Tools Work

In this economy it really does come down to the local relationships. That is the power of what I have learned and experienced here on www.Inside919.com . I have met some of the smartest and most inspiring people on this network both online and in person. Inside919 is the first place I go to for training, advice and ideas. To be at the top of your game, connect with people who are at the top of their game.


4. My Clients Rock!

My clients are premier in their respective industries. I love to hear their passion and relate that passion and excitement via social media management. Behind the scenes, I am their biggest fan and loudest cheerleader. Their success is my success. I am very humbled by my clients’ trust in AssistantAngel. Many of these business owners believed in me when no one knew who I was which is something I will never forget.


5. Amazing Support Team

AssistantAngel’s growth has allowed me to hire a team of VA’s who support me. My support team are the top in their field of expertise. Their support and insight has truly helped expand AssistantAngel’s growth beyond what I imagined.


6. Thank You!

In the coming months you will see great and exciting new adventures from AssistantAngel. As we embark on these new adventures, I wanted to take this moment and say THANK YOU.


It has been a wonderful and exciting journey and it is only the beginning…..




Angel Lebak ~ Virtual Assistant’s Posts – 919 Business Networking – Local Business Owners & Professionals

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Benefits of Hiring a Virtual Assistant (or VA)

January 5, 2012 By

A Virtual Assistant (or VA for short) is a qualified individual who will handle the mundane administrative, marketing, clerical, bookkeeping, payroll, website, SEO or social media tasks for your business on a contract basis. The VA is not on the premises of your office, hence the term “virtual”.





Here are some of the many benefits of hiring a VA:



More Time



A VA can take those “tasks” that are weighing down on your time and your mind, and handle them in an efficient manner.



What is your time worth to you? What is going to take you 4 hours will take a VA 2 or less hours.



How can you use those additional 4 hours for marketing your business and getting NEW clients?




Return to your “First Love”



When most business owners started their business they had a passion and a desire to share their service or product with the world. If you had some assistance, would you have the freedom to share that passion again?



Make a list of the things you LOVE to do for your business, that bring you joy.



Make a list of the projects that WEIGH DOWN your mind, day after day. These are the items you will want to consider outsourcing to a qualified professional.





Money Savings



With the downturn in the economy, many companies can not afford a full time administrative or marketing support person.



A VA can be hired:

• Project Basis

• Certain Recurring Events Monthly

• Admin Retainer Option* (where the VA “becomes” the hands on admin of a business”)



(* In our company, when a client hires us for the Admin Retainer Option, often company on-site visits are provided.)



VA companies are paid as a vendor, so it is a tax write off for your company. Also, there are no additional healthcare, payroll and state and local taxes that you will need to pay. Not to mention, the cost savings of having another desk, computer, etc. available for an additional staff member.





Peace of Mind



When I see a client do that “EXHALE”…I see the spark go back into their eyes. They know they have handed off something that has been weighing on their heart and mind for some time.



They are confident the project is in qualified hands that will not only get the job done in a timely manner, but with efficiency and excellence.



What would you do with an additional 4 hours in your work week?

Angel Lebak ~ Virtual Assistant’s Posts – 919 Business Networking – Local Business Owners & Professionals

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It’s not about YOU!

January 5, 2012 By

One of the powerful things I have learned from Olalah Njenga’s Marketing With Ease system, “Think Like a Customer”. That is such a simple statement that CONTINUOUSLY keeps me in balance.




Recently, my DSL internet was out of service for over one week at my home office. The amount of stress, tears, frustration, lost revenue, time and re-organization, I had to adjust to in a moment’s notice was incredible.



The internet being out was one thing, but the Customer Service of my internet provider. That was another.



The internet provider kept “promising” to have it fixed by a certain day. That day came and went on three occasions. Each time, my patience grew less, and I spoke to a different supervisor at the company.



The saddest part was when I finally had someone who I thought was listening; she said “I can imagine how hard this must be for you and your business. If only you had told us it was your DSL initially, we could have resolved this much sooner”.


“If only you had……”

I was speechless, because I had indeed stated our DSL issue to various representatives throughout the company over the past week. The situation did get resolved a few days later.

But what really stuck with me, was how with the service out, and after making me jump through a bunch of hoops, they laid responsibility back on ME.



How often do I do this to my clients?


I could easily ask myself: Was there miscommunication somewhere that should have been avoided? Was there a particular point that should have been addressed? What could I have done better?

It’s more important to focus on what the customer values as opposed to what I think.

This is a great reminder to THINK like YOUR Customer. How would my customer want to be spoken to? Which form of contact is best for them? How much feedback would THEY want to receive?



It truly is a paradigm shift.



Although, this situation could have left a bitter taste in my mouth, things happen. That’s part of life. But how we handle those situations, or how our CUSTOMERS view us handling those situation is the true key to our success.


How about you? How do YOU think like a Customer?

Angel Lebak ~ Virtual Assistant’s Posts – 919 Business Networking – Local Business Owners & Professionals

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Tips for Determining the best Virtual Assistant Services for Your Business

January 5, 2012 By

“How do I know which Virtual Assistant services are the right fit for my business?” That is a fabulous question that I am frequently asked.



As the owner of AssistantAngel, team of Virtual Assistants serving clients in Raleigh, NC and across the United States, we offer different services to different companies, depending on the particular company’s virtual assistant needs.

Here are some tips to help you determine the best Virtual Assistant Services for you and your business.

1. Determine what your company Needs (in order of importance)

Is your focus your local market? Do you need a national campaign? Do you need a marketing strategy that your team will implement. Are you looking for a part time help? Help for a specific project?

Once you answer these questions you may recognize that you need a Virtual Assistant (VA) for one part of a larger project. After you see where you can fit the VA into your plan, it will give you more confidence when speaking to a VA.

2. Decide what tasks YOU and your staff do Well (and ENJOY doing)

Do you enjoy doing the in person marketing? Are you more comfortable being the behind the scenes person who likes to handle the details? Do you know how to update your website? Do you want to know? Do you care?
Do you simply want someone to do the administrative tasks for your business?

The answer to the above questions will help you recognize what YOU want to do versus what you WANT the VA to handle on your behalf. This is going to empower you as you communicate to the VA what they will and will NOT be working on.

3. Determine your goal in hiring a Virtual Assistant

Do you want a team member or a short term contractor? Do you want a VA who will give you insight and guidance or a “to do” person.

Often Virtual Assistants have lower pricing packages for longer term clients. Keep that in mind when speaking with a VA for the needs of a one time project.

4. Personal Connection

A Virtual Assistant is going to have direct access to a large amount of the confidential aspects of your business.

Is this potential Virtual Assistant a person you know, like and trust?

Even if you know this person via phone and email, it is VITAL that you go with your “gut” and determine if the VA is a good fit for you and your company’s goals.


5. Here are some examples of what a Virtual Assistant can offer your business

  • Social Media Management
  • Online Reputation Monitoring
  • Social Media Strategy
  • Newsletter
  • Press Release
  • Social Media Platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, InsideAreaCodes, YouTube, etc.)
  • Event Posting
  • Training
  • Strategy
  • Bookkeeping
  • Email Campaigns
  • Appointment Setting, etc.


Please Note: AssistantAngel’s focus is on social media marketing management strategy and reputation management. We are connected with Virtual Assistants all over the US who can help get you the services you need.

We receive a large number of inquiries each week, and frequently refer business to other VA’s across the country. (I do not ask for a referral fee when I send a potential client to another VA. I do this so that there is no area of compromise for the needs of the business owner)

For more answers on Virtual Assistants, please see my other blog post: What are the benefits of hiring a virtual assistant?

Don’t be overwhelmed when entering the arena of Virtual Assistants. With some thoughtful answers to the above questions, you will be able to determine if a VA is a good fit for you and your business.





Angel Lebak ~ Virtual Assistant’s Posts – 919 Business Networking – Local Business Owners & Professionals

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Don’t Judge a Meeting by it’s Cover…

January 5, 2012 By

I have the privilege of meeting many small and medium size business owners in the course of my Virtual Assistant business.



Here are a few of the life lessons I have learned recently that have helped my business in many ways.

EXPECTATIONS



It is vital if you are going to have a one on one meeting with someone that everyone is on the same page of what the goal of the meeting is. (I laugh to myself because I used to COMPLETELY misjudge what a meeting was set for).


Is the purpose of the meeting:


~ Truly an “ice breaker” meeting – getting to know what each
other’s business is and how we can best help the other in their business? (Note: this doesn’t always mean become eachother’s client or purchase each other’s product)


~ Sales pitch? Am I ready to see 6 examples of your latest product line?

~ Is the person looking for “free counseling” or advice ?


~ Follow up or planning session with a potential client and
they need advice on how / when is the best time to implement their social media and marketing plan?

Once this purpose is defined both parties are in a better position to truly engage in the meeting at hand.

TIME


Be respectful of each other’s time commitment. We are all busy with family, life, business,
marketing and training for ourselves and our business. You can always connect at another time at a Tuesday Local Coffee Break, via phone or email as well.


MONEY MATTERS


I am a firm believer in respecting
other business owner’s value. I made a decision early on in AssistantAngel not to accept any service as a “gift”. I want to honor those whose services I recognize that help my business grow. The best way to do that is to pay them for the service I enjoy and benefit from.

I am also very respectful of the
financial commitment for a one on one meeting for myself and the other person.

If I need an hour of strategy,
counseling or insight I schedule an actual appointment. I let the biz owner I want to make an appointment and inquire what their rate is. This is a great way to have a very honest discussion of needs and insights.


DON’T JUDGE A MEETING BY ITS COVER

After all of the above have been established: (Expectation, Time and Money Matters) I have learned to RELAX and let the meeting flow.


I may “think” we will talk about 3
things, when really the conversation goes in an amazing new direction.

The truth of the matter is, we are
all different. Everyone has different talents, giftings and insights. I have found my most wonderful meetings with fellow business owners were the one’s that went NOTHING like I originally anticipated.


So my encouragement is this…take the
time to plan an effective one on one meeting with a fellow business owner and truly enjoy the process. You may be pleasantly surprised by what you learn about them…and also about yourself and your business!




Angel Lebak ~ Virtual Assistant’s Posts – 919 Business Networking – Local Business Owners & Professionals

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Thank YOU from AssistantAngel – Virtual Assistant Social Media Raleigh

January 5, 2012 By

It is written, “to whom much is given, much is required” that is an eternal truth that I do not take lightly.



As I look back on this past year, I am amazed and humbled by the growth of AssistantAngel. It has been an incredible journey, with many more roads to travel. I have experienced my one man (girl) shop turn into a Virtual Team focusing on Social Media. I have been humbled by the trust of some of the most amazing business owners locally here in 919, across the country (and Canada). To see their online presence blossom and mature is such a privilege and an honor for me.

I wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone’s encouragement and support over the past year. Many of my trusted advisers, I have met online and here in the local area (particularly www.Inside919.com). I am convinced my business has blossomed because of their insight and encouragement.

There are MANY new and exciting opportunities in 2011. Thank you for your confidence and taking this wonderful journey with me and my amazing team of Virtual Assistants

~ Angel



Angel Lebak ~ Virtual Assistant’s Posts – 919 Business Networking – Local Business Owners & Professionals

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Does every Connection Count? 3 Tips to Value Each Connection

January 5, 2012 By

The more my virtual assistant business grows, the more I recognize the importance of valuing EVERY connection. You never know when a conversation or response will lead to potential business or friendship.



Here’s a recent example. Early this year, I received a call from business owner in Arizona. We corresponded a few times, and truthfully, I wasn’t a good fit for what his VA needs were at that time. I recommended he go in a different direction. I never heard from this gentlemen again.



In the LAST WEEK this business owner offered me 2 referrals. When I asked him WHY he referred me to 2 people in one week, he responded, “Because you were so helpful when I needed it, and didn’t push me into making a decision”. Duly Noted




3 Tips to Value Each Connection

1. Value their time – “THANK YOU!” The potential clients are taking the time to reach out to you about your business. Chances are they have researched you online, and merely want to make a final decision one way or the other after speaking with you.



2. Offer a Solution – “HERE’S A RESOURCE FOR YOU!” I refer a lot of business to other business owners. If you are not a good fit for the potential client, or you can’t help them, direct them to someone who can (a competitor, another business owner who specializes in what they are looking for).



3. Be Honest – “TRUTHFULLY SPEAKING!” Know your business boundaries. When can you realistically handle the clients needs? Fully understand your expectations and your clients’ needs. If you truly do not have the time or desire to handle the client inquiry, be truthful and let the client know that. People respect honesty. It is a rare jewel in today’s business arena.



By showing we VALUE each and every connection, everyone will benefit. We NEVER NEVER know when that will lead to business down the road, either by that person or someone THEY refer to you.











Angel Lebak ~ Virtual Assistant’s Posts – 919 Business Networking – Local Business Owners & Professionals

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