Interview Daniela Herrera Toro

What circumstances made you look at becoming a virtual assistant? 

After reviewing my existing options and particularly with whom I was supporting at the time I took the leap of faith and registered my business in 2013. As January 2014 came to fruition, I quit my job and grew Adminallrounder into full-time capacity.

What challenges did you face before you started?

It was all exciting to be honest, as I knew that it was the best choice for a great future. However, the fear of proving to myself and others that I can do this, helped me with having drive and dedication.

What was/were your biggest fear/s?

When and who was going to be my first client, but before I knew it, the word spread and my existing 15 years of experience and reputation in the industry as an EA assisted me to quickly obtain my first few clients.

What is your advice to people who are thinking of starting up as a VA?

I would first ask myself, can you work on your own and manage your time like you do for your clients? If the answer is no, then I would look at starting in a team or joining a small start-up business. Do your research, where should you position yourself, identify what your point of difference is and how you are going to leverage this. Network….network… network…..get out there and speak to other people on what their business challenges are, educate others how a VA can be ROI to their business and spread the word that you are ready to hit the ground running.

What attracted you most about becoming a VA?

The constant challenges with new tasks, technology, the ever changing ways of streamlining a process, technique and the busy nature of the overall business autonomy.

How did you get started, what was the first thing that you did?

I went online, Googled virtual assistant, registered my business and built my website in a week! I then connected with 121 Temps for further support and information for industry connectivity. Finally – I emailed all my existing corporate connections to let them know my services, rates and availability.

Tell us about some options you considered but rejected.

Hiring a personal assistant to support me with my business – finding someone as passionate and reliable as you is tricky. Instead, I decided to streamline various tasks I was performing internally to save money and not waste it on the incorrect resources at the time.

What would you do differently if you had to set up now?

To be honest nothing, as the learning experience has been advantageous to where I have Adminallrounder positioned and with whom I am currently supporting.

What has been your biggest success to date?

Being asked to speak at the EA Summit in Sydney as a keynote speaker in May 2015 and now been asked to return to speak in Melbourne in December 2015.

How has being a virtual assistant changed your life or circumstances?

The benefits are endless! Flexibility with variety, all you need is Wi-Fi! and in general, working with a myriad of industry and professionals keeps me on my toes! I enjoy the pace, pressure and rewards at the end a working week.

What is your goal for the future? 

To scale Adminallrounder to 10 VA’s ( or more) nationally placed representing my brand and supporting others with their business goals.

If you had one piece of advice to give other VA’s, what would it be?

Do your research and keep up with the ever-changing trends with the type of support that business’ and individuals are needing. Network and engage with fellow professionals and business owners. This will assist you with your own personal growth and getting the word out that Virtual Assistants are Leading the WayTM.

How has the AAVIP helped you professionally?

It has become a great resource for information and opportunity to engage and collaborate with fellow members. It’s a platform for professional development and connecting with fellow VA professionals for my own business needs.

In Oct 2015, I had the honour in being asked to become a Board Member, and I said yes!

Website: https://adminallrounder.com.au

LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/danielaherreratoro

Twitter: allrounder_DHT