From the beginning, AAVBA's goal was to have 80% VBA's working by the end of 2008.
We knew we had to do something different in order to make this happen. It could no longer be "business as usual".
We looked around and spoke to many attorneys and VBA's prior to setting up our organization. We wanted to know why weren't attorneys calling VBA's? We wanted to know what marketing methods were being used by VBA's to advertise their businesses? We wanted to find out the "proven" methods VBA's were using to get attorneys to call.
This is the result of our poll.
Why weren't attorneys calling VBA's? Attorneys told us they had no idea who or what is a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant.
What marketing methods were being used by VBA's to advertise their businesses? This is an industry secret only available to AAVBA members. I can say that since using these methods, we have more VBA's working in the last two months than in the two years the VBA industry has been in existence.
What proven methods were VBA's using to get attorneys to call? Again, this is an industry secret only available to AAVBA members.
This past week was very busy for the members of AAVBA. We had some really great success stories to share.
As the CEO of AAVBA, I take my responsibility to our members very seriously. I want everyone to be successful. And I will do all I can to make this possible for them. I've been through this journey with them and I've experienced their disappointment and disillusionment of this business not going the way they had hoped. It's a desperate feeling to lose hope.
For them and for myself, I knew this had to change.
If we keep going the way we are, we are sure to have our 80% of VBA's working by the end of 2008.
And we can only have one way to go from there. All the way to the top!
It's hard to imagine being close to a large membership group such as AAVBA, but I am. I feel as if I know them personally. That is why, when one VBA gets a job, it's as if I get the job too! Their success is my success.
I could never imagine being successful if our membership group was not successful too. It doesn't make sense. At least not to me.
The day I stop caring about whether our membership group is working or not, is the day I stop doing this business. I'm no good to them if I don't do my absolute best for them.
In return, I know they will do their absolute best for their businesses and also for AAVBA.
There's always time to get on board with this great group of men and women who have decided to take their businesses and their lives to the next level.
To join AAVBA, simply go to www.aavba.org and click on Join AAVBA. Rest assured, you won't be disappointed.
Vikki
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Saturday, May 24, 2008
NACBA Convention (May 15 - May 18, 2008)
Recently, AAVBA (American Association of Virtual Bankruptcy Assistants) attended NACBA's annual convention in Hollywood, CA.
As CEO of AAVBA, it was very exciting to be an Exhibitor at the largest gathering of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys.
As a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, I was happy that our industry was finally getting the exposure it so badly needed.
I have to admit, when I first arrived at the Exhibit Hall, I was nervous. I had never taken part in a convention as an Exhibitor, let alone a large convention such as NACBA.
As it turns out, the Director of NACBA said this years' convention was the largest and best convention to date.
The Convention took place at the Renaissance Hotel and Hollywood and Highland Center. You can feel the excitement of being in Hollywood. We met people from all over the U.S. and also; one vendor whose office was down the street from AAVBA offices.
The weekend was busy. Many attorneys visited our exhibit and asked many questions. The new attorneys who had just started their businesses, were excited about the prospect of being able to start their law firm without hiring full time employees.
The seasoned attorneys saw this as an advantage to their firms. No longer will they have to hire "temp" workers to fill in for vacationing staff. This never worked for them anyway, most of the temp workers didn't know how to prepare a petition.
In the end, my goal to market to attorneys on behalf of AAVBA members was realized. What better venue than a Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney convention?
The goal of AAVBA for 2008 is to have 80% VBA's working and 100% by the end of 2009.
Wishing you prosperous days,
Vikki
As CEO of AAVBA, it was very exciting to be an Exhibitor at the largest gathering of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys.
As a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, I was happy that our industry was finally getting the exposure it so badly needed.
I have to admit, when I first arrived at the Exhibit Hall, I was nervous. I had never taken part in a convention as an Exhibitor, let alone a large convention such as NACBA.
As it turns out, the Director of NACBA said this years' convention was the largest and best convention to date.
The Convention took place at the Renaissance Hotel and Hollywood and Highland Center. You can feel the excitement of being in Hollywood. We met people from all over the U.S. and also; one vendor whose office was down the street from AAVBA offices.
The weekend was busy. Many attorneys visited our exhibit and asked many questions. The new attorneys who had just started their businesses, were excited about the prospect of being able to start their law firm without hiring full time employees.
The seasoned attorneys saw this as an advantage to their firms. No longer will they have to hire "temp" workers to fill in for vacationing staff. This never worked for them anyway, most of the temp workers didn't know how to prepare a petition.
In the end, my goal to market to attorneys on behalf of AAVBA members was realized. What better venue than a Consumer Bankruptcy Attorney convention?
The goal of AAVBA for 2008 is to have 80% VBA's working and 100% by the end of 2009.
Wishing you prosperous days,
Vikki
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Imitation is the highest form of flattery
When I was a new mother, many, many years ago, I wondered how my child would develop. What would his personality be like? What would his character be? Would he be a caring person? Would he be frugal? There were so many questions, that, at the time scared me to the bone.
But now, here we are 25 years later. He's a wonderful human being. He has many friends, from all walks of life. He's graduated from college and holds down a responsible position at his job. A job he appreciates. He knows this is not his final destination. He's a theologian; and as such, continues his studies to complete that part of his education.
You're probably thinking, "what does Vikki's son have to do with this post?". I'm glad you asked.
I knew that, for our son to grow up to be a responsible, productive human being, his father and I would have to lead by example.
So too, with the VBA Industry. For this industry to be successful, its' leaders need to lead by example. If the leaders do not behave in a way that is above standard, then we as an industry will fail.
If the VBA's who have been doing this career from the beginning, do not set a high standard in preparing petitions and running legitimate businesses, then the industry suffers. For themselves and for those who come after.
You can take 100 VBA's who are working and doing an excellent job for attorneys. But I tell you, it takes one to destroy it for everyone.
A wise man once told me, "you must command respect, not demand it". To be successful, this is the secret.
Lead by example. If you're a parent, you understand this. You know that when you are trying to get your kids to listen to you, you don't yell at them, if you do, they don't listen. But when you speak in a calm but stern voice, you will definitely get their attention.
Lead by example. Command respect, don't demand it.
By helping others gain position, you automatically win the respect of those who are looking up to you.
Vikki
But now, here we are 25 years later. He's a wonderful human being. He has many friends, from all walks of life. He's graduated from college and holds down a responsible position at his job. A job he appreciates. He knows this is not his final destination. He's a theologian; and as such, continues his studies to complete that part of his education.
You're probably thinking, "what does Vikki's son have to do with this post?". I'm glad you asked.
I knew that, for our son to grow up to be a responsible, productive human being, his father and I would have to lead by example.
So too, with the VBA Industry. For this industry to be successful, its' leaders need to lead by example. If the leaders do not behave in a way that is above standard, then we as an industry will fail.
If the VBA's who have been doing this career from the beginning, do not set a high standard in preparing petitions and running legitimate businesses, then the industry suffers. For themselves and for those who come after.
You can take 100 VBA's who are working and doing an excellent job for attorneys. But I tell you, it takes one to destroy it for everyone.
A wise man once told me, "you must command respect, not demand it". To be successful, this is the secret.
Lead by example. If you're a parent, you understand this. You know that when you are trying to get your kids to listen to you, you don't yell at them, if you do, they don't listen. But when you speak in a calm but stern voice, you will definitely get their attention.
Lead by example. Command respect, don't demand it.
By helping others gain position, you automatically win the respect of those who are looking up to you.
Vikki
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Education
I am a strong believer in education. For me, knowledge is power.
If you have started your business as a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, you know that you should stay on top of all that is happening in bankruptcy.
If you've been doing this since October of 2005 when the law changed, you know it's a lot of hard work.
If you are new to this field, you'll soon find out that running a business from your home is not going to be easy.
In this business, you should be proficient in computer skills. You are, after all, a VIRTUAL Assistant who specializes in bankruptcy.
If you got into this business thinking that all you have to do is data entry, you are mistaken. Bankruptcy petition preparation is so much more.
Also, if you want to be successful in this business, you should have other talents to bring to the table besides petition preparation.
One skill that you must have when contracting with attorneys is proper English.
One way to test your English speaking and writing skills is to take the Expert Rating exams which can be found at the AAVBA website. Once you log in, go to Resources and click on Typing Test Certification, you will be directed to the Expert Rating website. Once there, Click on Tests and Certifications, scroll down to English Language and there you will find 8 categories in English Language.
You should also know the legal aspects of running a home business.
Do not get into this business (VBA) unless you are prepared to do the work. It is a lot of work and it takes training.
If you feel you need more training, be sure and do all you can to set aside the time it takes to get the proper training. It will benefit you and your business.
Continued success
Vikki
If you have started your business as a Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant, you know that you should stay on top of all that is happening in bankruptcy.
If you've been doing this since October of 2005 when the law changed, you know it's a lot of hard work.
If you are new to this field, you'll soon find out that running a business from your home is not going to be easy.
In this business, you should be proficient in computer skills. You are, after all, a VIRTUAL Assistant who specializes in bankruptcy.
If you got into this business thinking that all you have to do is data entry, you are mistaken. Bankruptcy petition preparation is so much more.
Also, if you want to be successful in this business, you should have other talents to bring to the table besides petition preparation.
One skill that you must have when contracting with attorneys is proper English.
One way to test your English speaking and writing skills is to take the Expert Rating exams which can be found at the AAVBA website. Once you log in, go to Resources and click on Typing Test Certification, you will be directed to the Expert Rating website. Once there, Click on Tests and Certifications, scroll down to English Language and there you will find 8 categories in English Language.
You should also know the legal aspects of running a home business.
Do not get into this business (VBA) unless you are prepared to do the work. It is a lot of work and it takes training.
If you feel you need more training, be sure and do all you can to set aside the time it takes to get the proper training. It will benefit you and your business.
Continued success
Vikki
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Moving forward and onward
This morning I am thinking about how far we've come.
I say we, because I'm sure no matter where you were at 2 or 3 years ago, circumstances
have created changes which have affected your life one way or another.
I want this year to be different. For everyone.
We have a Convention coming up next month. I cannot tell you how nervous I am.
There is so much preparation required.
This is my first Convention where the Organization is the Exhibitor.
I've always imagined what it would be like to be on the other side of the Exhibitor table. I never imagined it would happen so soon.
I have always believed this would be a great career. I also knew it wouldn't be easy. Nothing worth having ever is.
Now that it's happening, I have to pinch myself.
I can't even begin to imagine what the remainder of this year will bring. I can only hope for good things to happen. For the Organization. For our Independent businesses.
And even though we run Independent businesses, we stand united as an organization.
Something that has been lacking for too long.
Wishing you overwhelming success!
Vikki
I say we, because I'm sure no matter where you were at 2 or 3 years ago, circumstances
have created changes which have affected your life one way or another.
I want this year to be different. For everyone.
We have a Convention coming up next month. I cannot tell you how nervous I am.
There is so much preparation required.
This is my first Convention where the Organization is the Exhibitor.
I've always imagined what it would be like to be on the other side of the Exhibitor table. I never imagined it would happen so soon.
I have always believed this would be a great career. I also knew it wouldn't be easy. Nothing worth having ever is.
Now that it's happening, I have to pinch myself.
I can't even begin to imagine what the remainder of this year will bring. I can only hope for good things to happen. For the Organization. For our Independent businesses.
And even though we run Independent businesses, we stand united as an organization.
Something that has been lacking for too long.
Wishing you overwhelming success!
Vikki
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Foundations
When you think of a foundation, what comes to your mind?
The foundation of my home comes to mind. When we first bought our home 11 years ago, the first thing I wanted to know was it on a solid foundation?
Turns out, that it was. To this day, it gives me peace of mind that the foundation to our home is as solid today as the day we bought it.
The first AAVBA training completed its session last week.
I applaud those who committed to give two weeks of their time to attend the training. I respect other peoples' time. I know we live in a hectic world and to be able to commit two hours each night for two weeks takes a lot of commitment and discipline.
The members who joined the AAVBA from the beginning are a special group. They have been given the responsibility of representing AAVBA.
AAVBA stands for support and service to the VBA. From its' inception, AAVBA strived to be a First Class membership organization.
We expect as much from our members. The individuals from the first training session are considered "founding members of AAVBA".
When we attend the NACBA Convention next month, we will be representing the Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant industry. We take this responsibility very seriously. We know that our actions, our demeanor and our presentation are a reflection of the members of AAVBA.
We will do everything we can to put our best foot forward for the VBA.
We expect good things to come from this Exhibit. We will be surrounded by Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys for 3 days.
When the Convention is over, we hope Attorneys everywhere will realize the important role and function of the VBA.
Our goal this year is to have 80% working VBA's. We are committed to doing all we can to edify the VBA Industry in a positive and First Class image.
The individuals of AAVBA come from varied backgrounds. Some have legal experience, most have Corporate experience, all have life experience.
When an attorney hires a VBA, they get an individual who has experience dealing in real world situations and will contribute proactively with the attorney.
It's a WIN WIN situation.
Vikki
The foundation of my home comes to mind. When we first bought our home 11 years ago, the first thing I wanted to know was it on a solid foundation?
Turns out, that it was. To this day, it gives me peace of mind that the foundation to our home is as solid today as the day we bought it.
The first AAVBA training completed its session last week.
I applaud those who committed to give two weeks of their time to attend the training. I respect other peoples' time. I know we live in a hectic world and to be able to commit two hours each night for two weeks takes a lot of commitment and discipline.
The members who joined the AAVBA from the beginning are a special group. They have been given the responsibility of representing AAVBA.
AAVBA stands for support and service to the VBA. From its' inception, AAVBA strived to be a First Class membership organization.
We expect as much from our members. The individuals from the first training session are considered "founding members of AAVBA".
When we attend the NACBA Convention next month, we will be representing the Virtual Bankruptcy Assistant industry. We take this responsibility very seriously. We know that our actions, our demeanor and our presentation are a reflection of the members of AAVBA.
We will do everything we can to put our best foot forward for the VBA.
We expect good things to come from this Exhibit. We will be surrounded by Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys for 3 days.
When the Convention is over, we hope Attorneys everywhere will realize the important role and function of the VBA.
Our goal this year is to have 80% working VBA's. We are committed to doing all we can to edify the VBA Industry in a positive and First Class image.
The individuals of AAVBA come from varied backgrounds. Some have legal experience, most have Corporate experience, all have life experience.
When an attorney hires a VBA, they get an individual who has experience dealing in real world situations and will contribute proactively with the attorney.
It's a WIN WIN situation.
Vikki
Monday, April 7, 2008
Monday, Monday
Personally, I love Mondays. Some people don't. I'm not sure why.
Is it because it's the beginning of the work week?
Or could it be we're sad the weekends go by so quickly?
I work from home. My office is a room in my house, so there isn't much distance between me and my work.
If you work from home, as many VBA's do, you know that discipline is the main factor in running your business from home. First, you need discipline to stay out of your office on weekends. Second, you need discipline to lock up your office or desk when the work day is over. Third, you need discipline to start your work day at the time you specify on your website (if you advertise a start time).
When I first started my business, I worked all the time. I was in my office at 7:00 a.m. and didn't close "shop" until 11:00 p.m. I think it's because I was just starting out and I wanted to make my mark in the Independent Contractor industry. Plus, there was so much to do. I believe it's true for all new Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) businesses.
But once I found my rhythmn and created a "work day schedule", I found more time to spend with my husband. And my dogs. Although our son still lives at home, in our back house, we never know if he is here unless we look out the window and see his car parked out in front.
So now, I start work at 7:00 a.m. and end my work day at 6:00 p.m. For a lot of people, that may seem like a long work day. The way I see it, I cut four hours from my original work day. That's a lot.
During my work day, I take an official lunch hour. I take three breaks a day. I schedule time for phone calls, answering business emails, and taking care of incoming and outgoing mail.
Aside from petition preparation, I also continue to do Notary Signing, and Field Service Inspections. For awhile, I did translations for medical appointments.
When there are two or three petitions on my desk, I spend a lot of time in my office. For various reasons. If the assignment is back east, I need to make calls to the attorney early in the day due to the time zone. If the attorney back east wants something completed by the end of the day, that means it has to be completed by 2:00 P.M. California time.
Where adjustments are required, I make them according to the client.
I have days I dedicate to marketing my business. One or two days a week, I run errands.
If there is any advice I can pass on it's this; when you're setting up your Virtual business, remember, it's a business. Schedule your time as if you were going to the office everyday.
I spent a few years as a Notary signing Agent. Back then, I would be ready to go on an assignment at a moments notice. My briefcase was stocked with my business cards, pens, journal and Notary forms and I kept it nearby, my blazer hung on the back of my office door, my printer was filled ready to print Edocs.
With petitions, I don't require as much preparation except to update my software, if required. I still prepare myself to go on a moments notice. An attorney close to my home office might call. You never know.
Mondays are good days. I like Mondays. It's the beginning of a new work week. And for me, a new work week means possibilities. Possibilities for a new client, possibilities for a new assignment. Why not open yourself to the possibilities? Who knows, you might get that one contract that will bring in assignments to keep you busy for months.
Have a great Monday and a great work week.
Vikki
Is it because it's the beginning of the work week?
Or could it be we're sad the weekends go by so quickly?
I work from home. My office is a room in my house, so there isn't much distance between me and my work.
If you work from home, as many VBA's do, you know that discipline is the main factor in running your business from home. First, you need discipline to stay out of your office on weekends. Second, you need discipline to lock up your office or desk when the work day is over. Third, you need discipline to start your work day at the time you specify on your website (if you advertise a start time).
When I first started my business, I worked all the time. I was in my office at 7:00 a.m. and didn't close "shop" until 11:00 p.m. I think it's because I was just starting out and I wanted to make my mark in the Independent Contractor industry. Plus, there was so much to do. I believe it's true for all new Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) businesses.
But once I found my rhythmn and created a "work day schedule", I found more time to spend with my husband. And my dogs. Although our son still lives at home, in our back house, we never know if he is here unless we look out the window and see his car parked out in front.
So now, I start work at 7:00 a.m. and end my work day at 6:00 p.m. For a lot of people, that may seem like a long work day. The way I see it, I cut four hours from my original work day. That's a lot.
During my work day, I take an official lunch hour. I take three breaks a day. I schedule time for phone calls, answering business emails, and taking care of incoming and outgoing mail.
Aside from petition preparation, I also continue to do Notary Signing, and Field Service Inspections. For awhile, I did translations for medical appointments.
When there are two or three petitions on my desk, I spend a lot of time in my office. For various reasons. If the assignment is back east, I need to make calls to the attorney early in the day due to the time zone. If the attorney back east wants something completed by the end of the day, that means it has to be completed by 2:00 P.M. California time.
Where adjustments are required, I make them according to the client.
I have days I dedicate to marketing my business. One or two days a week, I run errands.
If there is any advice I can pass on it's this; when you're setting up your Virtual business, remember, it's a business. Schedule your time as if you were going to the office everyday.
I spent a few years as a Notary signing Agent. Back then, I would be ready to go on an assignment at a moments notice. My briefcase was stocked with my business cards, pens, journal and Notary forms and I kept it nearby, my blazer hung on the back of my office door, my printer was filled ready to print Edocs.
With petitions, I don't require as much preparation except to update my software, if required. I still prepare myself to go on a moments notice. An attorney close to my home office might call. You never know.
Mondays are good days. I like Mondays. It's the beginning of a new work week. And for me, a new work week means possibilities. Possibilities for a new client, possibilities for a new assignment. Why not open yourself to the possibilities? Who knows, you might get that one contract that will bring in assignments to keep you busy for months.
Have a great Monday and a great work week.
Vikki
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