We’ve had some interesting discussions in the VA network I belong to about client expectations of VA’s and the notion that some clients are not fully aware of how best to ultilise a VA. Some clients think they need someone local who can come to them and that they can actually ‘meet’ face to face. Although I am personally not adverse to going onsite and doing work for clients from time to time, the fact is most tasks can be done virtually. But how does this get around the lack of personal contact present in traditional business relationships? I have clients around the world and around Australia, some of who I will probably never meet. However, I have spoken on the telephone to a few and kept in regular touch by email with the majority, even trading photos with my New York client to bridge that gap. I also make sure there is a photo on my website and in my newsletters to try to overcome the impersonal nature of the electronic medium. I’m interested to hear what others have to say about educating clients, working virtually and how to overcome the trust/personal contact issues, both from a VA and customer perspective.

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