‘Virtually Yours’ manages those tasks that keep you from running your core business– such as administration, website design and desktop publishing.

It’s also a place where Virtual Assistants themselves can find support, guidance and clients!

Visit Virtually Yours

Rosie,  what was the idea that first got the ball rolling?

Five years ago I got the idea that some businesses would not always want to hire full time administrative staff, and other businesses have admin staff who are limited in their formatting and researching skills. So I explored the idea of running a virtual venture. I quickly realised that there was an entire industry of Virtual Assistants growing throughout the world, which utilised these concepts.

What got you excited enough about the idea to put it into motion?

I think I gained confidence once I realised that there were other people out there doing this very same thing. I was lucky enough to be able to start whilst working part time, which took away some of the fear factor. After about 12 months I realised that I would need to take the plunge and leap head first into this fulltime if I wanted my business to grow, so I did what a friend of mine recommended, which was ‘feel the fear… and do it anyway!’

Where did the name for your business spring from?

Naming your business is not easy! So many names are already taken and it’s not always easy to think of something which really captures the message you want to give. I had a brainstorming session and asked a few friends, and then out of the blue I came up with Virtually Yours, which was still available in Australia, and not used for any high profile companies overseas. I was very pleased!

How is Virtually Yours unique?

Virtually Yours is unique in that it is a business that thrives on the success of other businesses within the same field. I have my own clients whom I provide web and desktop publishing support to, but my Network, Virtually Yours Virtual Assistants, is something I really enjoy running, and in it, I can see like-minded, passionate, business women (all women at this stage) working hard to achieve their business goals. It’s very inspiring.

What was the most difficult part in getting your business off the ground?

Initially I didn’t have anywhere to set up my ‘office’, but a half enclosed spare room was put to the task, and was painted, (including the concrete floors), sealed, had power brought into, phone line added and then my equipment. It was great to have a new space created especially for me and my business.

Has any part of your business gone down a different path than you first anticipated?

Absolutely. I never thought that I would end up predominantly working in web design and desktop publishing. Nor did I think that my Network would attract members from overseas. I have international clients, international members and new areas of expertise. Almost every part  of the original idea has been expanded upon.

What do you enjoy most about running your business?

I actually love being able to work with other business owners. Both my clients and my network members bring me a lot of joy and a sense of accomplishment, as they grow and succeed. The flexibility to work when I am at my most productive is also a great bonus.

Do you belong to any networks that have helped you grow your business?

Yes, I have informal networks which I utilise along with BNI, my local Chamber of Commerce and I am a Rotarian. Rotary is a great resource where successful business owners come together to work on community projects. The wealth of experience and knowledge that can be tapped into at Rotary is incredible. Plus it’s fun!

What are your future goals for Virtually Yours?

I am working on growing the Network further and developing partnerships with complimentary organisations, for example CoachNetwork, who can benefit my members further. I am looking forward to having over 100 Virtual Assistants on my network.

What advice would you give another woman wanting to start a business of her own?

Feel the fear…. And do it anyway!