MI:
You have an unusual background, tell us about it
and how it helps you as a VA...
JG:
I became involved in computer programming when I
was very young and that blossomed into a
"relationship" with computers. I also have
acquired a Paralegal Degree and Webmaster
Certification, both from Penn State University.
About five years ago, I was introduced to the real
estate field and it has been my primary focus
since that time. I started as the Regional
Webmaster for the eastern RE/MAX region and then to a
local office when the region was sold. All of my
experiences and education are quite helpful as a
VA. I feel that I am able to offer services beyond
that span beyond that of a "traditional"
assistant. I can fix a computer, troubleshoot
software, build web sites, and perform almost any
administrative task, amongst other things, thanks
to my experiences and education.
MI:
You seem to specialize in Web site development and
maintenance, what other types of things do you do
for REALTORS as a VA?
JG:
I have developed Listing Presentations in
PowerPoint, created flyers, CMAs, provided
computer training and support, typed
correspondence, designed ads and graphics, and
handled client databases in programs such as Top
Producer. I am willing to handle any task a
REALTOR might have for me.
MI:
How do you see your services as an advantage over
the typical on-site assistant?
JG:
Most on-site assistants work a normal set of hours
and as a virtual assistant, I am available during
non-traditional hours such as evenings and
weekends. I also can provide more services than
most traditional on-site assistants and have the
ability to send it anywhere for the client. I feel
that VAs are more like a centralized place to "get
it all" where an on-site assistant normally
handles general tasks.
MI:
What do you like most about working with real
estate professionals?
JG:
I enjoy the real estate business because it's
non-stop. Nothing is the same every day and I
enjoy that variety. I also enjoy it because
REALTORS seem to need direction and management
more so than other professionals, and I enjoy
being able to provide that guidance and management
to them.
MI:
So, are you saying that they are open to being
"managed" by you verses managing you as they would
a typical on-site assistant?
JG:
Yes. REALTORS need direction because their
business is hectic and confusing at times when
they have numerous clients at one time. They
appreciate the opportunity to have someone
organize and manage their business and streamline
operations. My goal is to help them automate any
many procedures as possible. When I first started
in the business, I found many still using
typewriters!
MI:
How would you describe the ideal REALTOR as a VA
client?
JG:
To me, the ideal REALTOR would be one who is
either "into" technology or willing to learn and
use it and be willing to listen to my suggestion
and implement them. One of my oldest clients, now
a good friend as well, has taken almost every
piece of advice I have given him and I am very
proud of him. It's a great feeling to see clients
advance themselves and their business as you work
for them.
MI:
Which functions that you perform do you think
would have the biggest impact on your REALTOR
clients' business bottom line?
JG:
I would have to say the first thing would be a
good web site with detailed listing information
and then a computerized listing presentation would
be second on my list. I think the flyers I have
created in the past have also been an added
benefit.
MI:
What special tools or infrastructure do you use to
facilitate your work with clients remotely?
JG:
I have communicated via fax, e-mail, overnight
mail, and also placed files on my website for
clients to download. One thing clients have been
requesting lately is computerized forms. Many of
them do Broker's Price Opinions and have to write
them out or type them on a typewriter. I have been
creating "fillable forms" which can be e-mailed
and filled without an external program necessary.
My plan for the future is to have a client
intranet where they can obtain files, data, etc.
via their own password. I find that sometimes they
need a file again, this way they can get it right
away using any Web browser.
MI:
What minimum technical skills and tools should a
REALTOR have before considering using a VA?
JG:
They should be familiar with the Internet and feel
comfortable using e-mail and hopefully understand
how attachments work in e-mail. I think they
should also be familiar with a word processing
program such as Word, and finally, they should be
using a digital camera. Other than that, the VA
should be responsible for keeping up with
technology.
MI:
Last question: What words of advice do you have
for REALTORS who are considering using a VA?
JG:
Take time to learn about the VA profession on a
site such as StaffCentrix. Then find several VAs
on the site with skills you are interested in and
interview them first via e-mail and then on the
telephone. Ask for references. Because the VA
profession is still considered a "new concept,"
you will find some new VAs who may not have a lot
of experience, but consider their "in office"
experience as well. Also, ask what kind of
equipment they are using.
MI:
Jennifer —thank you for taking the time today to
share with my readers your insights on working
with a VA!
JG:
Thank you for taking the time to interview me! I
appreciate the opportunity.
You can reach Jennifer via
e-mail at
contact@gatestechnology.com or by phone at
610-266-8756. Always remember to do a thorough
due-diligence before hiring any kind of assistant.
This interview is part of an ongoing series of VA
profiles designed to help you find that perfect VA
that will launch you to the top quicker and with
less effort than you ever thought possible!
