The Power of #Stoptalking, Issue #128

As a Virtual Assistant, when we’re out with friends, networking, or meeting someone new, we are often asked the question, “What do you do for work?” Sometimes, when this happens, we are not prepared with a well-thought-out answer. So we wing it … not a good idea! When we wing it, we tend to start talking and talking and talking. All that does is overwhelm or confuse the person we’re talking to. Sometimes both. There’s an easy fix to this:

1. Prepare what you’re going to say ahead of time, so you’re ready. I recommend the following: I’m a virtual assistant. I work with entrepreneurs and small business owners. I help them with their admin tasks like email newsletters, website updates, and PowerPoint presentations. Then Stop Talking. When we create a little space, the person we’re talking with will likely have questions or make a comment that will turn things into a relaxed conversation. So much better than endless rambling.

1. Learn to describe your work in a conversational tone. You want to sound natural when someone asks, “What do you do for work?” Memorize it so that it rolls off of your tongue and you don’t have to think about it or struggle to remember what to say. This is a chance to shine. Take advantage of it.

2. Practice out loud. You can’t get around this. You have to practice saying the words over and over and over until you know them as well as you know your own name. You can do this in the shower, while you’re driving, or you can practice with friends. Trust me – the more you practice the easier it will get. 

1. Don’t try to get hired. This is not the time to start selling them on your services. We’ve all had this happen to us, right? And the result is that the conversation gets awkward really fast and it starts to feel like a transaction. If they are interested in working with you, let it be their idea.

Set yourself apart from the pack with these four simple tips. Once you get the hang of this, you might be surprised by how many more clients are heading your way! 

Belinda Sandor is the Founder of The VA Connection where she works with new, aspiring, and established Virtual Assistants to help them build thriving businesses through her free online community, courses, and coaching programs. You can learn more here: https://www.thevaconnection.com/