S4:Ep 8, Sarah Rugg, Unlock Freedom & Flexibility as a Virtual Assistant

In conversation with Sarah Rugg, mum, entrepreneur, and VA guru. Back in 2005, when "virtual assistant" was a futuristic concept, Sarah left her 18-year corporate banking gig to become a VA and build a life on her own terms. It’s now become a booming industry for people looking for more freedom,flexibility and fulfillment from their work. Sarah explains more about the day-to-day life of a virtual assistant, the essential skills for VA success and common pitfalls for new VAs. Self-belief is key, along with a can-do attitude are the hallmarks of a successful virtual assistant. Sarah highlights the danger of “going it alone” when setting up a new VA business, and instead how working with an accredited VA trainer can be a game-changer. We wrap up our conversation with Sarah providing details on how to become a VA or hire one.  --- Key Takeaways:  Virtual assistant is a booming industry that offers flexibility and freedom. VAs can handle a wide range of tasks, including email and diary management, social media, and bookkeeping. Belief in oneself and a can-do attitude are crucial for success as a virtual assistant. Virtual assistance can provide fulfillment by allowing individuals to prioritize their personal lives and pursue their passions. Successful VAs possess qualities such as adaptability, flexibility, and a can-do attitude. Setting boundaries is crucial for VAs to maintain work-life balance and manage client expectations. New VAs should seek support and guidance to navigate legalities and gain industry knowledge. Accreditation from reputable organizations ensures a certain standard of training and expertise. Building confidence requires pushing oneself out of the comfort zone and having a clear vision or purpose. Becoming a VA can be a viable career transition or a part-time venture to explore a fulfilling career path. --- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Recipes for Success 00:59 The Rise of Virtual Assistants 08:11 Fulfillment and Flexibility as a VA 13:29 The Versatility of Virtual Assistants 19:26 Taking the Leap: Becoming a VA 23:05 Training and Support for Aspiring VAs 03:23 Conclusion and Season Wrap-up 24:29 Adaptability and Learning as a VA 26:42 Setting Boundaries for Work-Life Balance 29:03 Seeking Support and Guidance for New VAs 31:43 Understanding the Complexities of Running a VA Business 38:42 Building Confidence and Pushing Outside of Your Comfort Zone --- If you have enjoyed this episode of Recipes for Success, please feel free to support me by buying me a coffee!  ⁠⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Hthompson⁠⁠ --- Follow the host, Heather Thompson, on social media where she is known as "The Success Coach", a strategic career coach and business mentor for women. ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/successcoachheather⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathersthompson/⁠⁠ Check out my website: ⁠⁠www.thesuccesscoach.ie⁠ --- Connect with Sarah  Vi-VA - vi-va.co.uk My VA Business - myvabusiness.co.uk ---