New business mailings

[Homemom2]

I am starting my own VA business. I am putting together a package to mail out to local businesses letting them know what I do and how I could be of assistance to them. I was wondering if anyone else has done this and has any suggestions what to include, and if I should also include my full resume, or possibly note in the information that I would be happy to provide a resume for their review if they would like. I was also thinking I would.

Any ideas or suggestions are appreciated. Thank you.

[tenXmom]

I send postcards - sometimes oversized, other times regular with or without an envelope - I have a better response rate than when I sent fliers in an envelope

I don't include or mention my resume, it's on my web site but not a public link (if somebody really wants to see it I'll send the URL, same with references)

Your mileage may vary

[Homemom2]

Ok, great thank you! I love the post card idea! I had thought about that before and note that I can send more info per their request, just wasn't sure if Clients would make the decision to contact me by giving them an overview of my services or if they would want more info., don't want to overdose them with TMI! Thanks again for your input!

[angienewton]

I don't work with local companies yet but I wonder if you might be better off calling to set up an appt. OR going in person to the business to introduce yourself. Most stuff that comes in the mail these days just gets thrown in the garbage and since you'll be promoting yourself as a virtual assistant most local business people have no clue what that is and you want to be able to get their attention quick. Just a thought!

[KristenG]

Originally Posted by Homemom2

I am starting my own VA business.

Congratulations!

Originally Posted by tenXmom

I send postcards - sometimes oversized, other times regular with or without an envelope - I have a better response rate than when I sent fliers in an envelope

I love the postcard idea. With an eye-catching photo, graphic or design on the front, hopefully the recipient will at least take a quick look at it. More than you'd get with just a plain letter for sure.

Originally Posted by angienewton

I don't work with local companies yet but I wonder if you might be better off calling to set up an appt. OR going in person to the business to introduce yourself.

I think that these approaches work well when combined with the direct mailing. You could send the postcard and then follow-up with a phone call. It would give you a good ice breaker because you could say, "I'm just calling to follow-up..."

Or, if you decide to call the person first you could follow-up by mailing a postcard or regular card that thanks the person for taking the time to speak with you. If you wanted to drop the stuff off at the person's office, you could also line this up during your call. Say something like, "Would it be OK if I dropped off some samples of my work and more information on my services?" If you get a yes then you can hand deliver your package and if you get a no you can send the info. I'm not one for just dropping into someone's office unannounced, so with this approach you are at least asking first.

Best of luck with your new venture!

[Homemom2]

Thank you all so much for the input! I am new to this forum and appreciate the response. I've worked with several of the businesses I'm targeting in my area (I worked for the Chamber of Commerce), so I thought I would see what response I get from them (while also looking online). I think following up with a quick phone call is a great idea, in case they've been "too busy" to contact me. I think I'll start out with the postcard mailing with some kind of clip art or something to get their attention.