Spotlight On: Jennifer Smith

Name of Business: Eco-Office Gals
Type of Business: Green Virtual Assistant
Web Site: http://eco-officegals.com
Email: SCAeAdmin@gmail.com

Tell us more about your woman-owned business.

Eco-Office Gals' most important commitment to small businesses is to provide green Virtual Assistant services. I strive to help other small businesses become paperless by using various forms of electronic media while also offering eco-alternatives when tangible products are a must.
Why did you decide to start this type of small business?

After 10 years in the real business world, I was tired of the resistance I received from the public and private sector to go paperless. When the opportunity came to start my own business, I started with the foundation of my Administrative background built it into a green business!

What makes your business unique?

There are many Virtual Assistants online that are very qualified in their niches. Eco Office Gals is unique because my niche is to be green and paperless. I will not take on projects that are paper monsters or harmful to the environment. I want to reduce the environmental impact of businesses.

Can you share with us the challenges that you have encountered related to starting a business?

Numbers. I am not a numbers person. I can complete basic budgets and pay bills but understanding the money side of business is not my strength. This will be my first tax season as a business owner and I will be seeking out help! LOL

Also, when I first started my Virtual Assistant (VA) business, the overseas competition was frustrating. Competing with Virtual Assistant sweatshops that will churn out work at $3 hour was hard to beat. I had to work hard to rise above and prove I wasn't just another VA in the masses.

How did you overcome these challenges?

I don't know that I can cure my numbers challenge, except with an accountant. For the latter, social networking was my key. As I formed casual interest relationships with people through Twitter, ning groups, yahoo groups and other networks, the relationships developed into business partnerships.

What has been your biggest success thus far?

Partenering with some wonderful clients at the end of 2008 and looking forward to more in 2009!

What is your favorite free business resource?

Echosign, it's a paperless contract resource. I love it and all my clients have come back and asked about it. You can e-sign 5 contracts per month for free.

Can you share with us something that very few people know as it relates to your business?

I am self taught in just about every skill I offer. Almost everything I excel in, I taught myself. You won't find a bunch of certifications on my site, that's just not how I work. However, with that said, I am upfront about my abilities. I am not afraid to admit that I haven not used a specific software program or that I don't know how to complete a project but I am always willing to learn. I'm not afraid to learn!

What words of advice would you provide to others who are considering starting a business?

Take a good look at yourelf and see what it is you know how to do well, then figure out how you can grow that skill green. When I wanted to stay home, I looked into all the MLM's and Direct Marketing. It just wasn't for me. I've been an Administrative Assitant for 10+ years, it's what I know how to do. Also, give it time. It took me almost a year to get my first client! It drove my husband crazy. He didn't understand why I spent day and night online and didn't make a dime!

Do you have any special offers for those reading this interview?

Through the month of February, mention "Pink Heels" when you contact me for 50% off all small creatives (web buttons, banners or blog header creations)

Would you like to be considered for an upcoming "Spotlight On" post? If you have a web site and a business Up & Running story, please email Jennifer Moore at Jennifer@Pink-Heels.com. You can be located anywhere in the world as we are creating a global network of fabulous women!