Here’s your copy, hot off the virtual press
Yay! I’m so glad you are grabbing a copy of the Stop Settling Manifesto re: Who is taking care of who?
Now just click the book cover to download your free PDF and earmark about 10 minutes to give it a read – heck, go ahead and dive in right now then you don’t need to worry about finding the time to read it later. (It’s only 14 pages – you know me, i like to keep things short & sweet!)
(Note that our servers are pretty busy so it may take a moment to download.)
Be sure to save the file to your hard drive so you have a copy on hand.
And a favor if you don’t mind? I’d love to hear anything that this manifesto has stirred up for you – any questions, ideas, eeks, tears, cheers or boos.
Just go ahead and post here on this page or feel free to email me direct if you prefer – my email addy is tina [at] onlinebusinessmanager.com. I’m on a mission to make sure that you get the right virtual support team to create a thriving business (and have a few things brewing to make this happen.) Anything you have to share helps – so bring it on! 
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{ 204 comments… read them below or add one }
Tina — WOW! It’s always interesting to me how things “just happen” to fall into my lap (or inbox) at exactly the moment I need them. I’m in the process of changing my own business model, and in doing so find myself working to build a small but mighty team of VAs to support my growth. Your “Manifesto” really laid it on the line for me and brought instant clarity around a couple of issues I’d been struggling with. Great job, as always … thank you!
Great content Tina.
From the VA perspective, it’s just as difficult to agree to work with a new client and have THEM disappear, or never provide the information you need to get anything accomplished. I always ask a new prospective client to create a list of priorities – of what they want to accomplish. With that I can then recommend solutions to get them there.
I think it’s also important to remind entrepreneurs that when they hire a VA, they are hiring an independent contractor and not an employee. As well as the fact that if they only expect to need 10 hours of support a week, and ask for 60, that the VA may have problems meeting their needs.
Being a VA is very rewarding and fun, especially when you can take a person to the next level in their businesses!
Thanks!
Great Stuff, Tina! Over the past 5 years I’ve dealt with each of the scenarios / owners you describe and it’s always a huge relief when I finally admit that either the client or the virtual team member isn’t working out. When I don’t settle, everything suddenly looks brighter. Thanks for the reminder!
Great report Tina!
Excellent, easy read and just about the right length to get through quickly although 10pgs was scary at the beginning, so good thing you said 10 minutes to read.
Looking forward to your hiring checklist although what I really need is what comes next, i.e. checklist to bring someone on board the right way as I’m hiring a copywriter assuming next project works as well as the first one.
Tina – this manifesto is SUPERB! You hit the nail on several heads and I’m going to make this required reading for future clients.
Defining the ‘Ostrich’ and the ‘Control Freak’ will be extremely beneficial to those who truly wish to work effectively and successfully with their support team. Nice work!
Tina, This is fantastic. It is really a great read. Thanks for all that you are doing.
Stacey
Thanks for the report Tina. The team issue is a tough one. I’m with Pam and believe I will make this required reading. Thanks for simplifying and putting it down on paper!
Tina!!!
What a great mantra!!
This sentence sums the whole VA/Client relationship in my mind!
” They should be demonstrating – in every little thing that they do – that they CARE.”
Thank you Thank you Thank you..for writing this.
So many of us do settle because we haven’t quite got our arms around this “virtual” thing yet. Many of my clients are the for the 1st time trying a VA. Testing the grounds.
Partnership with a client needs to be a win/win for both parties!!!!
~Annette
Tina, what an excellent “guide”. Thank you for sharing and pointing out the ostrich and control freak scenarios. Made me think about myself and our business.
Fantastic report, Tina! I really like the analogy of the ostrich and the control freak and think it will help manage expectations and help find the best way to work to support an entrepreneur.
I think I have an EEEK! I need to do some firing and then some hiring. Can’t wait for that checklist!
Hey Tina,
Great stuff. When you’re crazy busy, the temptation to hire immediately is strong. Good enough, never is.
What about a hybrid of the ostrich and the control freak? What a visual
elana carter
As always you have your finger on the pulse of the industry. Great Manifesto!
Great Manifesto, Tina. And it came at the right time too. I am sure it will help a lot of people.
It feels I am a mix of the ostrich and the control freak… scary, huh?! Now I now what to work on!
Thanks for this!
Nathalie
The scenario is the right one, Tina! I admit that either the client or the virtual team member isn’t working out. We still there, throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping it will stick. And no one hat the right receipt! Everythings seem a casuality. Suddenly!
Rita
Hi Tina,
I am brand spankin’ new at the outsourcing journey. I have been afraid I cannot afford the good solid help I need.
After reading your manifesto I can see why I have this unsettling feeling you spoke of. My Virtual Assistants are affordable. Now I wonder if their low rates are part of what has me unsettled?
I also keep wondering if I have hired people who understand or are at least interested in the type of work I do. If not, how then, will they make my business go from average to fantabulous?
Wow! These are such brand new feelings and thoughts I am having, it’s kind of scary to be honest.
Thanks again Tina!
I enjoyed hearing your thoughts on this topic.
Thanks for the information. easy read, thats always good. The little pl, just getting into online business need help. and this will help. I just want to know where to go for a great VA. Thanks
I have expressed to all my new hires – here in house not the vitual ones, although why not? – that their job is not “chief instructor” “housekeeper”, “bookeeper” etc, but thier job is “worrier”. In other words, I would like
whoever I hire to WORRY for me. Thier job is to WORRY so I do not have to.
In: Worry about our customers and guests, worry that their is no toilet paper in the guest powder room, worry that the sales tax has been filed….worry worry worry. Then I can be so free to actually take care of the WHAT.
Maybe you can add that to the manifesto. It’s like “careing” as much as I do, but truthfully, it’s the constant worry that my employees are not taking care of things, and believe me, I am NOT a control freak at all. Just not great at hiring – YET. I’ve been a bit better at hiring the virtual’s than the physical team members so far.
Thank you so much, Tina, as always you are providing hope to entrepreneurs everywhere. Very encouraging, clear and helpful manifesto.
Consider me officially “bopped” on the head!
I’m in a transition from running the team, to stepping back into being the strategist and creating new content again, and letting the team learn how to run itself (with assistance…yes I have a wonderful coach for this, thanks Cindy!)
It’s more than just a “who does what” transition…it’s a mindset change on all sides. It’s not always a smooth transition, but I’m already seeing the benefits and I’m holding the vision for the true freedom I want, freedom from “running the business” and being the “go-to” person all the time.
Fellow business owners, please know that hiring your first VA, building a team, taking the team to a more autonomous level — all of these steps require change not just with the team, but within yourself, too. Be patient, with them and with yourself. You’ll get it (and so will they) — it just takes time!
Terri Z
Great report Tina! I’ll be sharing this broadly. Seems like communication and clear expectations are key factors in a great VA/biz owner relationship. Looking forward to seeing how you can help us all with this!
Hmmm, loved the visual of the ostrich and the control freak. Perhaps I’m a cross between! Great reminder that every entrepreneur needs help and its our job to communicate our needs to our team. Sometimes this critical step is missed when we’re busy or feeling overwhelmed.
Great manifesto!
At this time in my business (5+ years) I could choose to hire a team to help me to the next level OR I could go it alone and restrict the number of clients to what I can handle alone OR I can manage my existing clients and funnel the new clients through a VA Team that I already belong to. I know myself well enough that I am not comfortable as a Manager of a Multi VA Team, I do not want to stagnate with present clients and turn new business away but I do want to incorporate new clients into a VA Team provided that the Team communicates and has all it’s processes in place and encourages commitment and a team environment. As a “team member”, I have encountered both the Ostrich and the Control Freak. And neither scenario has contributed to my feelings of being appreciated for going the extra mile to support the Team and the VA Company or nourished my desire to be a valuable team player. Your short eBook is a good read and hits the nail right on the head. I am hoping all the Multi-VA Teams can access your book and it will clarify to them what it takes to make a good team that will step up to the plate and help their businesses soar!
I absolutely love this Manifesto! I know that I have worked with Ostriches and control freaks and all forms of entrepreneurs in between. This is great information so I can identify the type of client that I work best with. Thanks.
love that you guys love the ostrich vs. control freak – almost makes for a cartoon idea hey? LOL.
trying to think of a name for what the ‘in between’ would be – that sweet spot between being an ostrich or control freak… hmmm, would love to hear ideas if you have them.
ashley – we’ll be talking more re: the hiring/firing side of things in the near future (doing a free video series first week in july, will share more there for sure then)
mary, awesome re: your ‘paying your team to worry for you. curious if you’ve been able to let go of the worry? i know i still struggle with that at times…
terri – mindset indeed, that is the toughest part i agree
Excellent report Tina! It provides sound tips, advice and is certainly food for thought not only for existing OBMs but also for others, VAs in particular, with aspirations of becoming one. Thanks for sharing!
Just reading your manifesto (wahoo!). I think your “characters” are unfolding ….
Hawk (control freak)
Ostrich (head in sand)
EAGLE (thriving team, know where he/she’s headed and secures the right team to support that direction)
Three fun characters to play with eh?
Thanks for putting this message out there. About time!
Karri
Good stuff!
Scheduling quarterly ‘how are we doing’ sessions might prevent a lot of the ‘settling’ on both sides of the fence.
If the response is that things are going well, then what better time to ask for a testimonial. If one isn’t forthcoming or doesn’t match expectations that’s a clue that all’s not well in the ‘partnership garden’.
Asking for a testimonial is a more tactful and gentler way of teasing out of a client exactly what they think.
I think we all know instinctively when a partnership isn’t going well… it’s the pain of dealing with potentially ‘difficult conversations’ that most people run a mile from. The fear of it is usually greater than the act itself.
Being honest with yourself is as important as being honest with your client.
I am neither an “Ostrich” nor a “Control Freak”…BUT I have certain standards that I need met.
I would love to have a VA, or some team members who can create such visually appealing and user friendly media as your team has done for you…but I don’t know who those VAs are!
I have done extensive searches through VA directories and most seem to be lacking on the skill to CONSISTENTLY create clean, visually appealing landing pages, newsletters, PDFs & eBooks, etc.
Tina, what I would really like is the names of some VAs who can create landing pages, newsletters and PDFs as beautiful and professional looking as yours.
Thank you for your help…you are a godsend!
Thanks Tina!
Not at the hiring stage yet, but seeing it is the first step to making it happen! My motto is: prevention is the best remedy when it comes to business mistakes!
Bonnie
fabulous resource! I second an earlier comment that will make this a required read for new clients.
Tina
I think this summary nails it for me
“There is no longer any excuse to settle – and if you truly want to create a thriving business you need to take the bull by the horns and get this team thing figured out once and for all.Don’t let good enough be good enough anymore.”
Too right – excellence is now the name of my game
Thanks for the report
Bev
This is a great start to considering WHY and HOW entrepreneurs can build a team and not struggle along doing everything as a One(Hu)Man Band.
Tina, This is great information and very true. As a VA that is starting her own team, I have seen both sides as well. Unfortunately a lot of the planning individuals do for their business is often left behind as business takes off. There is a lot of planning that needs to go into adding to your team. Once the decision is made to add to your team you need to be able to manage (not micromanage) and give that person the trust and the tools to get the job done.
Tina, this manifesto is perfectly timed for me. I just hired my first VA last week and look forward to partnering with her to leverage her support in my current business and next to grow my business.
Your insights are very insightful and I will certainly come to the working relationship with my VA with an eye towards being an Eagle (I liked Karri’s analogy for the inbetween spot).
Thanks!
Hi there Tina,
FAB piece of work, this manifesto of yours. I’ve been in nearly all the categories you describe (well, not so much spaghetti on the walls around here, but still . . . ) and have been on both sides of the equation with clients, too.
I most often have been stuck at the point of either not knowing what needs to happen next in my business (therefore, can’t ask for it from VA) or by the time I’ve done enough research/training to know what needs to happen next, I’ve already done the steps in the process of figuring it out. Or, in the case of learning a new system, the training it took isn’t easily transferrable to a VA unless she also attends the training, which might not be available again for many months, and is often expensive.
I’ve also been stuck at that tipping point between not having enough income to support hiring someone (and/or pay for fancy training) but not able to move to higher income unless I hire help. That one is tricky!
Your clear description has stirred up new thoughts, though, as I move through just such a tipping point in my business. Thanks much.
Great read Tina! I am going through some of what you said right now. Thanks for letting me know I’m not the only one out there.
Hi Tina,
I absolutely love your book! You truly believe in a client’s success!
-Sana
Hi Tina,
I’ll tell you, I’ve taken courses this past year with some pretty big names out there in the mentor coach arena. Each of them has promised to provide the secrets to success, and each has attached a pretty hefty price for their information.
Although each of them has spoken about hiring a VA or an office manager when you get large enough, not one of them has been able to explain how to do this. Not one has been able to explain how to shift ones mindset from the employee mindset we were trained to have where we do all the busywork, and change over to a business owner mindset where one is able and willing to delegate work to others.
Of all these big name mentors, the closest anyone has come so far, was to say you hire help with administrative talks first. That was it… and compared to other answers I’ve received, I considered this was substantial information in comparison. So, as you can imagine, I’ve been overwhelmed and frustrated trying to figure this stuff out, and very seriously going broke in the process of trying to find the information I need to get my business off the ground and grow it.
So, having come across your manifesto a short time ago this afternoon, I’m finding myself feeling very elated at the moment to have found there’s someone who actually understands what those like myself are missing in our understanding and is able to explain it as well as being willing to share it with us.
I am very grateful to have come across your website and your information. I’m hoping that with better understanding of how to hire people and grow a business into a profitable enterprise; of how to delegate effectively and plan for my businesses growth, that I’ll replace this sense of overwhelm that I’ve had for so long now with having so much to try to figure out despite spending so much on help that hasn’t helped with a sense of confidence.
I’m hoping that as I gain the awareness that I don’t have to do it all myself, that there are people who are willing to help me be successful, that I’ll find a sense of relief and confidence in growing this business I’ve been trying to get off the ground.
I’m very grateful for what you’re sharing, and so looking forward to the videos…
There was lots of great info and food for thought in this manifesto. The two questions you should ask yourself before you begin hiring were excellent. I found this quite useful content.
I don’t want to be an ostrich or a control-freak. Instead, I will spend time to hire those who are a good fit, be very clear on what must get done along with time frame, and then get out of their way. I will of course be accessible should they have questions.
hawk, ostrich & eagle – love it! trust karri the wordsmith to come up with something so fitting
eleanore you remind me that there is a big difference between having standards and being a control freak… i think i’ll do a video on that actually as it is really important to have high standards imo.
i’m also going to do a video sharon re: being able to afford someone – it can be tricky indeed!
and glenn… what you shared is exactly the reason that i’ve decided to focus on this. its been annoying me too for years that we always talk about ‘needing to hire a team’ but not really helping people do it… my goal is to make that simple/doable for you and everyone else. you brought a smile to my face with your comments, great to hear that they are hitting home for you
Great report! You really made it very clear about the 2 types of entrepreneurs when it comes to managing/hiring/leading a team or an assistant. I have been at both extremes before. Thanks for the insight!
Great content. I cant wait to learn more about becoming an online business manager.
This is exactly what I have been looking for. Now I know I will use this method to find and hire the right VA for my business.
Thank you.
You’ve taken on an interesting challenge. I am always curious about the initial impulse that drives us to move towards our calling and in the virtual world that kind of movement happens in virtual time, which means it is lightening-fast! Congrats on seeing where you best fit in that scenario … I look forward to reading your perspective on how best to evolve a sense of collaborative team work.
Dr. Janeann Dill, phd, mfa
Can’t wait to read it!
This is great… I’ve been struggling to get a support team in place and making some of the mistakes you outline. BUT, I find that the fault, for me, is not having the clarity of what I want from my team, but not knowing how to find the right team. I’m frustrated when I hire a VA and she disregards the system that’s already established. OR takes 5 times longer to do tasks than it should (since I’ve been the one doing them, I know how long it takes) etc.
I get that often it’s us business owners getting in our own way, but it’s also because there are a lot of folks wanting to be a VA but aren’t really up to snuff so to speak.
This is a tremendous help!
Thank you for sharing this information – timely and needed.
All good points, Tina. As a solopreneur just putting a team together this year, I’ve found the first thing a good VA has done for me is take the day-to-day stuff off my plate so I can put time into business development. I hope to come back to her with more direction now that she’s given me the space to create it. So having a good team, providing a vision, propelling a business all seem to feed into each other in an upward spiral…
Bottom line: without the VA I wouldn’t even have time to think about where my business is going. Without that time to plan, I wouldn’t be able to turn my VA into a business manager.
Hi Tina
I’ve been in business less than a year, and I really see the need for a team. I am overwhelmed by all the details necessary and I can’t hold everything in my head at the same time. I haven’t made any money yet, so I can’t hire a web designer or a business coach. I must do everything myself until I can afford help. It’s like there is a giant wall I must get over before the business gets rolling. Knowing who to turn to when I can start building a team is a releif. Thank you for this manifesto.
Ben
Tiny,
What a fabulous, simple way to understand these challenges. You’ve made it so clear how to stand back, reframe the issues, and move forward in a systematic way that creates opportunities for success over and over again.
Thanks so much!
Linda Feinholz
Super job on this manifesto, Tina! Like you, I’ve been on both sides … helping biz owners grow their 6- and 7-figure businesses as well as building my own team to support me. You’ve put it all together very succinctly.
When I read David Neagle’s email bringing me to this page, I was shocked at the problems people have faced with virtual team members (I mean, stealing lists?). I have been resisting letting go of control to a VA and so I’m really grateful for your report — I will feel more protected and willing to relinquish control so I can grow my business even faster. Thanks!
Hi Tina – Like you, I get on a soap box about this topic. I eagery printed out this timely manifesto and can’t wait to read it at lunch today. Awesome need you are filling…thank you!
Kendall
Thank you Tina for offering us such a valuable report. I heard of it through David Neagle, who obviously thinks very highly of you! A good person to recommend you!
Thanks again, Joan
Thanks Tina – a very timely report for me as my business, and therefore my team grows!
So true what you said that 90% of the ‘problem’ lies with us as the business owner, in our expectations, and mis-communications!
Much appreciated
Tanya
As someone in the process of building a team, I found this both timely and very useful. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.
Tina, thanks for writing this – it’s the perfect starting point for someone just dipping her toes into expand-the-team mode. So your next manifesto will include even more, specific tips? (hint) Thanks again!
Excellent
Tina,
Got this today, and read it immediately. I have been working with some clients in building their teams, and the advice you have here is right on target.
Many (if not all) of my clients are leaning towards control freak, and taking the time to find out what they want and how they want it really helps when training a new team member.
Great manifesto!
Terry
Yikes! Looks like I’m a split personality between the ostrich and the control freak. Can’t wait to see your Thrive Hiring system. Boy, do I need help. :-}
David Neale sent an email sharing this information. New to this whole subject and very intriguing. Thank YOu.
Marilyn
I cant wait to read this! I am going to get all of my stuff from your printed and in a binder so it is at my fingertips from now on!
Bravo Tina!
Another compelling, concise, insightful piece that is already helping people, just based on the comments so far!
I totally concur – Business owners who make an effort to choose their teams carefully, communicate clearly, ask for feedback to create more efficient processes, and make sure to provide the information their VAs need IN A TIMELY MANNER (think I’ve been there??), to keep things moving forward, will be rewarded with happy, productive teams.
Then they can reap the benefits in loyalty, trust and the sheer excitement of sharing their success!
Can’t wait to see the hiring checklist and whatever else you are cooking up next! (Love the “bop you on the head” line too!)
Lynn
Thanks Tina,
Perfect timing, as my business grows I need more support and have been hesitant to hire. This gives ma a solid foundation to venture out and hire some help wisely.
Cathy
I found some interesting communications tips and tricks that I definitely needed! I have to remember that other people do not have the program framework that I do in my head. In order to get the things done that are needed to move forward, I need to list them out and have the checklist of things needed and dates needed by clearly defined!
Thanks for this nice little awakening manual!
Dennis
PS Do you have some candidates that would be great to help with a youth/various ages group for churches?
Tina,
Thanks for this! As a former Office Manger/HR person, this is right on!
Building the right team will allow you to reach your goals is less time!
Looking forward to more.
Sheila
Interesting paper. I am preparing to be a freelance proofreader and it was helpful to read about some of the issues I should be alert to as I begin this work.
Thanks so much for this. I’m grateful! Perfect timing as I am just starting to work with V.A.s and learning some hard lessons. Looking to build a team I can count on to do what they say they will!
It’s one of my pet peeves — when someone promises to do something and I’m counting on them then they don’t deliver.
Perfect timing. I’ve been needing to hire a VA but have been dragging my feet about the whole process.
Thanks for the free report, Tina. Very well written and validating that I am not the only one who has been settling for a good enough – but not great – VA. It seems every time I am about to consider looking for someone else, she comes through on something and I put this on the back burner. I look forward to receiving your checklist and getting more inspired to hire someone that is better than just good enough! Thanks again! Janet
What you need always seems to turn up just when you focus on it…. I am just about to start out with my own business and this will be of great value. thank you
Tina,
This is a SUPER ebook. I can’t believe you are giving it away!
It’s a shame for any customer to “have to settle.”
There is an excellent virtual world, just waiting to belong to a cooperative team and join forces to thrive.
Thanks for providing much needed information!
“Someone I can trust who cares about my business.”
Thanks for giving me a break from reality with this far-fetched utopian fantasy.
I second Ben’s comments (#50).
Thanks, Tina. Informative, readily implementable ideas, and very well put together. I’m sure I can use what you’ve provided to get better results from our virtual staff.
Thanx Tina!!!!!!!
Your manifesto was enlightening and empowering!!!!! thanx for sharing your wisdom with us!!!!
Thanks Tina!
I’m not at the hiring Stage yet, but this gives me a good plan to follow once I take that step. My goal is to hire a team of VA’s because a VA may be GREAT at several things, but ultimately only LOVE certain things they do. I want to hire a VA that’s not only GREAT at what they specialize in, but also LOVE it so I’m working with someone who also LOVES what they are doing!
Thanks again!
Thank you so much for sharing this very informative perspective of the ins and out of hiring a VA. I am at the point where I need to outsource my not so favorite things to do in exchange of my favorite things I love to do
I appreciate the insight that you were able to so clearly express and I know that it will help me find the VA that will be a great fit and a mutually profitable relationship!
Cheers to your Health,
Christina
Hi Tina,
I found you through Alicia Forest, one of my very first coaches as I started my online business. This report hit me square between the eyes because of one thing (actually there were lots of things I learned, but this is what hit me the most). When you said, “At the end of the day this is all that matters when it comes to knowing whether or not you have the right team for you and your business: Is your team taking care of you, or are you taking care of them?” Ugh. Hit me square between the eyes because I don’t feel I’m being taking care of but it’s the other way around.
Thank you for sharing this report – it has opened my eyes and confirmed some things I’ve been feeling.
I can tell you know your biz, Tina. Loved the description of the ostrich and the control freak. I’ve been both and think I’ve matured enough in my biz to move towards center. And, I’ve experienced every one of those nightmare stories and have settled. In fact, I know dozens of coaches who want a good VA and haven’t found one even at decent fees. So, I’m glad to know about you.
Very timely! I’ve already had a couple of “disasters” with hiring team members and was thrilled to see this resource! The fact that David Neagle recommends it was compelling enough to sign up for your info!
Wishing you great success!
Shannon
Great info, Tina! I could see myself being an ostrich and a control freak. I’m interested to know what kinds of things one does to take care of their team.
“Good enough could be the death of your business…” is so true. Settling for mediocrity can be so, well, comfortable at times. Thanks for the reminder and great resource!
Good timing Tina – I’d love to be working with a VA who cares as much about my business as me. I don’t even know where to begin to find that person or to figure how how they can help me!
Perfect timing! It’s time to revamp and change everything I’m doing.
I’ve been thinking about a “VA” for a long time, and this will help to give me the incentive I need!
Thanks!
You’re so right! “Good enough” isn’t. Thanks for taking this bull by the horns — more business owners will thrive as a result. I’ll be in touch!
Thanks so much for sharing this wonderful information!
since you’ve got so many positive great responses…( and I totally endorse all of them!), I think you’ll be secure with me telling you that I think the proper way of asking this question(“Who is Taking Care of Who?”) is “Who’s taking care of WHOM?”…for all of us out there that are English-grammer-inclined…to call it nicely..
Thanks Anca, I know my grammar is off on this one (and probably many other places as well, hehe)… I certainly don’t mind the feedback.
Reading you manifesto was like a roller coaster ride, making me relieve many ups and down in my business life. I am a recovering ostrich
) with streaks of a control freak, so finding the right team for me and learning to let go has been a learning curve.
I love the “is your team taking care of you?” question. What a great way to check if everyone in your team is the right fit for you. Thanks a lot for writing this Tina.
thanks tina for some clear ideas for me to ponder as I look to hire my team!
I have had a very successful business in the past although not an online business. Two points that resonated with me :
in building a team you need people that are committed to your passion
and
let them perform the activities that they are expert in while you continue to clarify your goals with them.
joan Cavanaugh Boardroomgolf.net
Yes, clarity of goals, expectations, and processes for evaluating both are key. thanks for guidance!
Ask and ye shall receive! I have been reflecting on how I am needing more support in this area..and here it is! Thank you.
This Manifesto could not be more timely for me in my business since I am in the middle of a Quantum Leap and a new team member is at the TOP of my priority list.
Well done! And Thank you!
Stef
I just love your “tell-it-like-it-is” tone to the Manifesto…I think it’s so important to speak the truth so we don’t waste time (=money) and get connected to the right team members. Thanks for a great read and I will definitely be applying these concepts…
I’d like to explore this more.
Tina – Create material and applicable information! Every solopreneur should read this!
Excellent, thank you for sharing this Tina. Much to think about as I add new members to my team.
Your points on hiring and team apply to a bricks and mortar business. The point of not having the right team will suck the life out of you and your business and not havving a team that desires sucess as you do resonate with my business experiences as a spaghetti thrower.
Thank you Tina. I am just starting out, so this info. if very insightful regarding the territory ahead!
Hi Tina,
thank you for sharing the ostrich/controll freak types. In my own business I just made the first experiences with my virtual team members, after I understood the concept of how a virtual team could help. In your manifesto the point – I need to know where I want my business to be headed towards – met me at a sensible area.
Tina,
I recognized myself in both the ostrich and the control freak. Looking forward to hearing about Thrive!
Juliet
Thanks for the information. I am just exploring the idea of hiring a VA or assistant and find it a daunting task. Building a business, low cash flow, not sure what I need or willing to let go of, not sure where to go to find the “right” assistant. I am getting coaching so some of that is clarifying. Your report is encouragement to really get my act together so I can be a good leader and truly get support for my money. Thank you.
Thank You So Much For this Free Pdf “Stop Settling Manifesto”. I’m in the Start Up Phase of My Non-Profit “Project Unite” and I Will Own For-Profit Businesses Also. So, This information is So VALUABLE.
Nedra Hooks
P.S. I didn’t know you can hire Online Business Managers? Last Year I Finally Found Out What Entrepreneurs Meant When They Said Hire a VA. The Only VA I knew of was Virginia and Veterans Affairs, lol.
As a va who who has been managing the other members of the team, I thank YOU! for shedding more light on our game and inspiring me.
Thank you for your insight. It has me think about how best to approach my work in the future.
Awesome job Tina.
I was just having a conversation with my coaching group about what to look for when hiring, so I will pass this onto them because you did such a great job!
Blessings,
Therese
Thanks SO much! I am about ready to hire my team and this will definitely put me ahead of the curve in starting off with my team right from the beginning!
Have a great week!
Julia
Thank you Tina for your insight, your clarity and your generosity. I have been researching this topic for some time and this is THE BEST information I have found!
Patricia
Thank you for this info which has clarified for me the importance of recognizing the context in which my team will operate. Now I need to think about the specifics of what I need and figure out the best combination of people to provide that. I’m looking forward to learning more at your teleseminar this afternoon.
Simone
Thanks, Tina — I have been following you for quite awhile. We finally have a good VA team helping us with our business and we are always looking for ways to be more clear and work more effectively with our team. We are looking forward to the day when we are in a position to hire an OBM!
Thanks for all you do,
Paul
As always, thank you for taking this on. As a tech-geek-VA who loves to do, CLARITY from the client in the WHAT is key in order for me to run with the HOW…. CHOMP CHOMP CHOMP
Tina thanks for this, it’s great. I am always looking for great advice like this and ways to build a better business.
Your talent and support is awesome,
Lyn
Sydney Australia
I’ve been on both ends of this spectrum, not knowing and being clear on what I want out of someone and also being very clear and not getting.
I guess that makes the entrepreneurial wins that much more exciting.
Kevin
For lots of us, it was much easier to be an effective leader in the corporate world rather than in our own business (where the biz is a much more personal representation of ourselves in the world).
But I’m making progress, Tina, with help from your straight talk. (Besides, I don’t want you coming to BC to bop me on the head!)
Cheers,
Sheila
Great info – Thanks!
Hi Tina,
I truly appreciate you offering tips, resources within this site. The challenge I’m getting with prospects is that they call me for OBM services, but really want a VA that can do multiple VA roles (social media, video configurations, write and create sales pages, schedule, coordinate, record teleseminars and post on website) etc. I always ask if they know the difference between a VA and an OBM, and help educate them the differences, so I can launch into how I can partner up with them as an OBM.
So send me the Thrive Hiring CheckList because I am often seeking out VA’s for certain roles!
Thanks again, I’m proud to be a part of this organization!
xoxo, Ana Lucia Novak
Thank you for this wonderful Manifesto. It’s a treasure trove of information which has come at exactly the right time for me.
As a career administrative professional with entrepreneurial blood running through my veins, I’m at a point where I NEED my own administrative support, and I’m now utilizing the support of VAs in my business. I’m very excited about the potential for an OBM to join my team and take care of all of the details moving forward. Thanks for all of the resources and helpful information!
Thanks for a great report
Excellent information – I cannot wait to get into it.
Thank you for sharing this valuable information!
Tina,
Hope to see you again at Smart Women in November! I am checking out your VAs list here to see where to go with my next hire! Can’t wait to get your checklist as I know it will be super!
Enjoy!
Teresa
I am so excited, this is exactly what I have been looking for, I continue to struggle and fight for good communication skills. Being so busy does not allow me to do the necessary research and guide me in the appropriate direction so that I can give my business partners all they need, and allow them to feel very confident in their decisions.
Thankyou
Cindy
What great info to keep in mind when hiring and working with staff! Thank you and I can’t wait to get my hiring checklist!
Since I am currently trying to transition from offline administrative work to being a VA, this will be very helpful. Thank you.
Thanks for sharing your insight!
Thank you for creating this
Wish I had gotten this sooner. I could have really used the help long before now.
Thank you so much for your great info – I am a business coach and I will share this info and your pdf with my clients.
)
Luv it
Tina,
Thanks for sharing the all this great information, including the videos…
Looking forward to your hiring checklist…
Tina
Thanks for sharing. One of my clients, Janet Falkenberg, told me about you and I am glad she did. There is a ton of information here.
Looking Forward to the checklist!
jack
I’m looking forward to learning more about hiring a VA! I need help!
Thank you so much for offering this report. I am a solopreneur that is needing help and I have been thinking about hiring a VA. I have never hired anyone before and now this all makes sense. Ostrich or Control Freak…hmmm…tough choices.
One of my colleagues, Lena West, suggested I check out your site and I am very happy she did. Looking forward to your hiring checklist to make this process that much easier.
This was a great piece, thank you.
“Imagine the power of that for a moment… having someone actually CARE about your business as much as you do.” — This is funny, because I feel this way about the business that I’m providing virtual support to. So I absolutely understand the passion that comes along with finding the right business to work with. My client has told me I’m godsent, and I’m not allowed to ever quit!! I find myself so drawn to the business, wanting to find ways to make it even better.
The only thing I wish to change about this position is that the pay is much, much too low due to low sales and poor money management of the current business owner, and a host of other reasons. It’s really a paradox… this is easily the most enjoyable work I’ve done in my career, but the pay is the lowest. I would love to figure out how to reconcile that, with my client (she has had ~6 VAs walk out on her previously). My heart goes out to her, and I’m using my mind to come up with ideas on how to turn this “barely thriving” wonderful gem of a business into the full potential it could be. The owner achieved low six figures in 2009 but has plateau’d since then…and I strongly believe this is a 7-figure business waiting to be unleashed.
Some great content. Lots of insight from someone who really knows.
Great report Tina! Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
Tina,
I love the perspective of your report and I’m looking forward to building my team with your help.
Thanks a bunch!
Nice Report!
Wow Tina- Your name just comes up over and over again in conversations. You really are on to something!
I appreciate you taking a stand for entrepreneurs and encouraging us not to settle, because we all know that it’s easier to be complacent that keep tweaking until it’s perfect.
Thanks for the push!
Sarah
Tina, this book was written for me! Now, I have the mentor and the plan that
‘fits’ me / hurray! Now, I’m ready to implement. Thanks for your report… sure
does clear up a lot of confusion!
“Good enough could be the death of your business” is so true. As a business owner who has tried unsuccessfully to get a good VA this report was great food for thought. Thank you!
Thanks Tina! I’ll read the manifesto right now!
Thanks for sharing this manifesto. It’s insightful because it gives business owners insights into what they need to figure out about their business needs before hiring anyone to work with them. Your manifesto also gave me more questions to ask potential clients to make sure I’m the right VA for them.
Thanks for sharing such a valuable resource! This will save so much time…and as we all know that’s priceless!
Tamara
Thanks Tina,
From a Virtual Assistants point of view, this will help determine the business entrepreneurs needs and what questions I need to ask of them.
Perfect manifesto and I must whole-heartedly say – “Ditto, Ditto, Ditto”. Not only hiring the right team, but also knowing what type of team leader you are (yes, I confess I’m a control freak!) is critical to your virtual team success.
I am a Control Freak… but I won’t hire because I want to control everything. I can’t believe anyone else would care about my clients like I do. Thanks for the information to ponder over!
Hi Tina,
loved you book – so reassuring to know that people I hire really want me to succeed. I’ve been at start-up stage for far too long, because I’m really time-poor at the moment. So I’m thinking that the only way to break out of my stalemate is to get someone to work on my project with me, especially the technical stuff, and, as you said, the how.
Thanks
Marlowe
This is such a useful document – thank you. I totally agree that having the right support team (and knowing how to use the effectively) is critical for the success of any business. I look forward to reading your hiring guide as well!
Thanks again.
Thank you so much for sharing this invaluable resource!
Thank you so much for helping people apply sane, simple strategies to hiring and working with VAs, and for providing excellent training AND a way for clients and providers to find each other.
Keep up the great work!
Thank you so much for all the great advice you post. Because of your advice I am finally moving my business in the right direction.
Great read, Tina. As a VA I really related to a couple of points…
Your ‘recipe’ for working with a team:
“Entrepreneur provides the WHAT
Team provides the HOW
Combine ingredients to create a thriving business.”
It really can be that simple!
And your statement that a team needs to care about the business owner and their business.
Yes – we do what we love and want to help our clients succeed, it is very rewarding!
Here’s to more of the above type of entrepreneur/VA/team relationships.
Tina, what a great read and very practical as I am in a verge of doing just that…hiring a team. Thank you much.
Need Business Manager… Google Me ! Bay City Mi.by e-mail only.
Hi Tina, Great Manifesto – awesome content and design. I’m new to leveraging, outsourcing, etc. so see myself as both the ostrich and control freak – would love to receive your guide on hiring a VA. Thanks, Christy
Absolutely love the ending to your manifesto! I just feel like I have been bopped.
Thank you Tina
Thanks for this report. I look forward to the checklist!
Hi Tina,
Excellent report.The information was very informative.
Hi Tina,
Thanks for the wonderful insights. Although I don’t need an online business manager (yet), I’d be very interested in knowing of any recommended resources you may have for the other services you mentioned, such as VA’s web designers, writers, etc.
Thanks much!
Tina! Thank you so much for sharing your insight! This is a great reminder about how teams really do matter and people can make or break a business. I’m setting up a VA business as we speak to help health professionals! I look forward to its growth and great to have this piece of informatin AHEAD of time.
What a wonderful gift and great strategies. Thank YOU.Jamie
Tina! Tlhank you so much for sharing such a useful manifesto. I have for some time been sceptical in using the word VA (Virtual Assistant) to describe the kind of service that I want to show potential clients that would visit my site for the simple reason that what has become to be a technical word for a VA are those offering a kind of service that caters more on the Administrative aspect of the business. And although some VA’s are targeting different niches, but they still all fall under either an administrative assistant, executive assistant, secretary, legal assistant, and etc. which is quite short of the type that I am doing or that I am offering. And quite frankly, for lack of a better word, I was using the word for some time.
Now, the word Online Business Manager shape what now is to me an unrivalled word that best describes what I am doing or can do. Subsequently, I am now in touch with people who has my same feather.
love that Manuel – it’s amazing actually how much our “title” sets us up for what we can do for our clients, and what they expect of us. love that you’ve connected with being an online business manager.
Great Manifesto, Tina. And it came at the right time too. I am sure it will help me and a lot of people. it has given my some great ideas to think about
Love it! Very insightful…and helpful. Thank you.
Tina – thank you for sharing this! There is a LOT of great information here. It is like you were reading my mind.
your enthusiasm, can do attitude and brilliant tips really help making biz online more fulfilling and fun… thank you…
mary
This couldn’t be timelier. Although, I must say, I’m an ‘Ostrich’ with some things (mostly tech related – just get it done! I don’t care how!) and a control freak with others; there are so many graphic production tasks I could use help with or outsource, but explaining them just makes me want to take a nap and/or I don’t think anyone will do it correctly, even though I’m not that great with detail-oriented work myself!
thanks for the manifesto. Timing is great as I look to accelerate the growth of my business by getting great help in areas I suck at!FInally realised “resistance is futile”
“resistance is futile” – LOL. always love a good star trek reference Beverley
Tina, Thanks for report. Good insight as to needing to know what it is we need from our VA. Lookong forward to your checklist. Cindy
Great info. Clarity & direction are soooo important!
As always, Tina, you have such wonderful words of wisdom!
Thank you so much!
s:)
Tina, thanks for putting this out there. So many people I’ve talked to say they really need help and don’t know what to do to get the right kind of help, or what to do with it when they do get it. Now I can send them here! I don’t know which is more important – learning how to outsource without being an ostrich or control freak, or, on the other side – learning how to be a proactive part of a team that knows how to take care of the client’s business.
Hi Tina!
This was a GREAT manifesto – having been through the “Cycle” more than once of trying to find a support staff that’s a FIT for me I’m once again on that place in the spiral of growth where it’s clear that a change has to be made and that good enough isn’t any more. I’m looking forward to getting more of your wisdom around this topic and discovering if it’s really time to uplevel now beyond “throwing spaghetti at the wall”,put on my big girl pants and step up to engaging the services of an OBM.
Keep bringing the light!
Amethyst
Need an online business manager and a virtual assistant. Should I have person take your manager course and do some virtual assistance tasks; or hire as virtual assistant?
Tina, superb!! So well said, and you captured the heart of what can be so frustrating for both sides… That chasm between someone who needs things to be done… And the people who can and want to do them! Thanks for building a bridge!
Tina,
I am just getting to learn about OBM’s and am so anxious to learn more! Hiring is my biggest challenge and I am so excited to learn from you via your checklist. Thanks so much for always sharing!!
Awesome !!!
We always want to believe … perhaps to in somehow overcome our fears and to avoid to recognize that we need to go deeper to find out the real needs, to be present in the moment for fluidity… To gain perspective and to keep it real … easy to say it but not so easy to do it.
Thanks for sharing !!!
Thanks Tina, This was really helpful in reminding me to get clear what I would like help with and to clearly state my business goals. Yes I am a control freak mostly because I am not clear on my needs in a way that I can get the support I need. This helped me get clearer.
This is really the transition I am living right now.
So true when you say :
Once your team members are clear on the WHAT, then they can take care of the HOW
Thanks!
Hi Tina,
I think you and your work are great! You provide clear, concise guidance to entrepreneurs like myself who can’t do it all but keep trying to. I’m just now preparing to hire a VA and would appreciate your checklist.
Tina — Thanks! This was a great read. I love how you break down and simplify the two types of business owners. I know for one that I fall into the Control Freak category and try on a daily basis to learn to let things go. As I being to build my OBM business, having your hiring check list would be a fantastic resource to add to my tool belt
Amy
Thank you Tina for sharing this. I may have read it when you launched it the first time and I’m glad I read it again. I look forward to the checklist.
Danielle
Thanks so much Tina – I’m completely ready to give up the do-it-all-myself approach I’ve been using for the last 3 years in my online business. I look forward to creating my own awesome team!
Jess
Love that Jess – very tiring to try and do it all ourselves.
I am looking forward to digesting all the fabulous information that I have gained from your site today. What a wealth of information… a wealth building source of information that is ! Thank you for all you do for the other people in our business, this is mentoring to the nth degree.
Tina! Thanks for the great information. I just created a list of all the energy sucking things I want off my plate and all the things I have others doing that aren’t getting done the way I want them to be. Now I have a great list of requirements for hiring a VA. Can’t wait to compare/merge this with your hiring list! Just connecting with you in Miami to get this information made my trip worthwhile. Thanks for getting me started on the How to my What.
You. Rock.
I love this! It will make the points I have been trying to make to my husband.
Thank you!
Brenda B
Excellent information and I love your “matter of fact” attitude. Not theory, just good info to help those reading reach their personal success.
love your work and I have done some work with your sister who is a dream to work with!
Kerri is the best, would love your check list. my best, laura fenamore
Tina – What a tremendous you are sharing. Yes, i can be an Ostrich and yes, I can be Control Freak and your words have given me much to ponder as I move forward with my fledgling business. Thank you so much for providing some guidelines!
The one line that struck me was the entrepreneur who had to apologize for not being the leader she should have been. I definitely will have to step up and make decisions in order to truly leverage the support I’m looking for in a team. Thought provoking ebook (and funny!).
Great article.
Pls send hiring checklist.
Thanks!
Can’t wait to see what’s in this book!
Working to stop the Ostrich to Control Freak swing. Reading your ebook helped a lot.
Thanks
Thanks for the great info, Tina! I appreciate how you define exactly what an OBM is (vs. a VA). Everyone tosses the term around, but I never fully understood the difference and how to know when I need one. I look forward to seeing your hiring checklist as well.
I love the clear headed way you share information. You get to the crux of issues quickly! I’d love to get your hiring checklist!
Tina,
I love the title “Who is Taking Care of Who?”!! That is so my life.
Looking forward to your checklist, as I’m about to hire on a new person.