Virtual Duality: Recent Episodes

Cydelle Stewart

Virtual Duality is the podcast for Aspiring and Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want the low down on whether being a VA is a viable career path for them, and if so, how to approach and excel in these digital streets!

How so, you may wonder? Well, I'm Cydelle Stewart and I used to be an Executive Assistant in the world of corporate and commercial employment. Subsequently, a former VA (for over 10 years), today, I’m an Online Business Operations Expert and the Founder of Virtual Assistant Agency Onit! Communications, with a small team, plus my own one-to-one clients.

I’ll be coming to you every week - solo or with a guest - to share expert insights, useful resources and actionable tips galore. Get comfy, we're going in...

This episode, Cydelle is joined by Virtual Assistant & Virtual Assistant Coach, Michelle Eshelman.

With over 13 years of experience in Administrative and Customer Service roles, when Michelle learned that she was pregnant with her first son Ryan, in 2020, she decided to put her knowledge and experience to good use by becoming a Virtual Assistant. Her ongoing mission is to help as many people as possible.

Cydelle and Michelle talk about ways to stand out by being organic and not just some cookie cutter VA.

What you will learn in this episode:

Ways to assert your boundaries from the beginning of a working relationship
How every role you have prior to becoming a Virtual Assistant provides you with excellent, transferable skills that you can draw on
Why paid training is beneficial at the start of your VA journey
How to have a real work life balance as a Virtual Assistant by building a business that works for you
You never stop learning as a Virtual Assistant

This episode forms part of our VA Diaries series, where we dig into the careers of Virtual Assistants who have made the transition from employed business support roles, to the heady heights of self-employment as a VA, and explore how they found themselves in the online space.

Connect with Michelle on IG @outdoor_chell or on Facebook

Michelle is offering courses and mini courses to Virtual Assistants who are struggling to get their business off the ground as well as anyone wanting guidance in getting started in the Virtual Assistant world. “Basics 101 Intro to the VA World” is soon to launch. Follow Michelle to find out more.

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This episode, Cydelle is joined by Virtual Assistant & Founder of The VA Lounge, Hayley Hudson.

Hayley launched her VA business at the height of the pandemic and has spent the last 2 years building a sustainable offering that kicks entrepreneurs into productivity, in a proactive, dynamic way. Loving every minute of being part of the VA industry, Hayley is a keen advocate that one-size does not fit all, and she’s enjoying trailblazing the virtual world, on her own terms. January 2021 saw her launch The VA Lounge, a supportive, collaborative network that steers fellow VAs and business owners on a similar path.

Cydelle and Hayley discuss the options available for VAs when it comes to growth and how a sustainable business is the key to creating the lifestyle that you really want.

What you will learn in this episode:

The best ways to transition from employee, to self employed Virtual Assistant
Why it’s necessary to do a little homework before becoming a VA and what to avoid
How networking and collaboration over competition with other Virtual Assistants is a great way to build your knowledge, reputation and client base
How learning new technology can help you to determine your niche

This episode forms part of our VA Diaries series, where we dig into the careers of Virtual Assistants who have made the transition from employed business support roles, to the heady heights of self-employment as a VA, and explore how they found themselves in the online space.

Connect with Hayley on her Website, on IG @hudson.admin.support, on LinkedIn or on Facebook

Find out more about Hayley’s group The VA Lounge

Hayley is hosting The Big VA Meet-up on Thursday 24th March. Find out more via Hayley’s social media channels

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this episode, Cydelle is joined by Founder & Director of RH Brand Building, Rachel Humphrey.

With over 15 years’ PR experience across consumer brands, Rachel builds brands for progressive, digital businesses and develops clear messaging for their unique stance in the market by delivering powerful and thoughtful strategic PR plans for long-term brand credibility that is relevant to inclusive and diverse audiences. Rachel is also an Associate Lecturer at the London College of Fashion, leading sessions on organic demand and often focusing on her expertise in beauty subscription and community building.

When Rachel embarked on sourcing a Virtual Assistant, she knew what she needed and looked to a professional to take her and her business to the next level. Rachel and Cydelle talk about all things process.

What you will learn in this episode:

Why a solid infrastructure coupled with clear and consistent processes can help clients to decide that you are the right fit for them and their business
The broad range of support that a business owner may need from a VA
How, as a Virtual Assistant, you are integral in shaping a business owners professional and personal life, by increasing your client’s bandwidth
The benefits of building a relationship with clients through effective communication, rather than simply completing tasks

This episode forms part of our VA Hirer series, where we speak with VA hirers about the ins and outs of what decisions they took to find and onboard the right VA for them.

Connect with Rachel on her Website or on IG @rhbrandbuilding

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this episode, Cydelle is joined by Virtual PA, Rachael Dalton.

Rachael Dalton is an Executive level Virtual PA specialising in Business and Personal Lifestyle support, to High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI). As an Executive PA for over 14 years to the CEO & Senior Partner of a world leading hedge fund, Rachael is familiar with working in exciting, high-pressure, fast-paced environments. However, following the growth of her family, she sought a better work life balance and decided to branch out as a Virtual PA.

This episode forms part of our VA Diaries series, where we dig into the careers of Virtual Assistants who have made the transition from employed business support roles, to the heady heights of self-employment as a VA, and explore how they found themselves in the online space.

Rachael and Cydelle discuss a broad range of online business areas, from finding and managing your clients, to key things you need to know when working as a Virtual Assistant.

What you will learn in this episode:

How to transition into a self employed, virtual role, after years in employment
The benefits of building a network and client base from your existing contacts
Why it is so important to trust your instincts when selecting new clients
Key things that can help you create a sustainable Virtual Assistant business, whilst setting yourself apart from the crowd
Why you should build a network of other VAs around yourself

Connect with Rachael on her Website, on IG @RachaelDalton or on LinkedIn

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this episode, Cydelle is joined by Digital Marketing Virtual Assistant, Shiela Pialago.

Shiela Pialago is a Digital Marketing VA from the Philippines, mostly serving the healthcare and tech industries, for the last 10 years. Shiela is also host of virtual career-focused show, The Rockstar VA Podcast, which aims to help Virtual Assistants, freelancers and business owners, by addressing concerns on professional rapport and providing real-time, real-life insights on the ever-changing dynamics of online communications. With it, she shares tips that help internet-based connections and relationships, to achieve longevity and stability.

During this episode that forms part of our VA Diaries series, where we dig into the careers of Virtual Assistants who have made the transition from employed, business support roles to the heady heights of self-employment as a VA and explore how they found themselves in the online space, Cydelle and Shiela discuss all things remote working and virtual business support.

Shiela shares how she got started as a Virtual Assistant, how her career has developed over the last decade and why she is so passionate about the virtual business support industry.

What you will learn in this episode:

Why your professional title can differ depending on your audience
The importance of working in your Zone of Genius to bring out the best for your clients
How to use professional development to stand out from the crowd
What going the extra mile with existing clients can do to help to grow your client base
Why communicating your value and rates should not be tied to your self worth

Season 2 of Shiela's podcast, The Rockstar VA Podcast, is currently streaming on Spotify. Tune in now and listen back to Cydelle’s episode that was broadcast in 2021.

Connect with Sheila on her Website, on IG @ShielaPialago or on LinkedIn

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this episode, Cydelle is joined by Co-Founder of Niche on Demand, Consultant, Executive Producer and Board Trustee, Zena Tuitt.

Zena, a former PA herself, is a change agent with more than 20 years creative business experience spanning professional services, financial services, publishing, television, film and theatre.

Cydelle explores Zena’s experiences of hiring a Virtual Assistant for her business, an essential commodity that Zena says she now could not live without! This is a fascinating opportunity to get inside the mind of a VA hirer - who also has life experience of working within Business Support - to hear first-hand exactly what a VA hirer is seeking and what you, as a potential VA hire, can do to stand out to win clients.

What you will learn in this episode:

How communication can cultivate a successful Client/Virtual Assistant relationship
Why a VA is a strategic business partner rooted in skill and knowledge transfer, not hierarchical
How to use your own business model as a portfolio
Why managing expectations enhances a great Client/VA working relationship
Why industry knowledge is not as important as you may think

Zena has very generously offered listeners of our podcast career coaching. For more information, book a Discovery Call and be sure to mention the Virtual Duality Podcast.

Connect with Zena on her Website or on LinkedIn

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this episode, Cydelle is joined by two more members of the Onit! Communications team, Jo Mower and Laura Mitchell. This episode is part of our VA Diaries series where we dig into the careers of Virtual Assistants who have made the transition from employed, business support roles to the heady heights of self-employment as a VA and explore how they found themselves in the online space.

Jo Mower, a Virtual Assistant, has been working with VA Agency Onit! Communications for a number of years as a client-facing Associate Virtual Assistant. Jo started her VA career with a variety of associate roles, gaining the knowledge and confidence to build her own business and now has her own team of associates.

Laura Mitchell specialises as a Tech VA and Business Consultant, working with small business owners to put systems and structure in place. Laura started her business during the first lockdown of the Coronavirus pandemic and has seen her business go from strength to strength.

This episode is a great insight into two different approaches to starting out in the world of a VA, through the eyes of those who are living, breathing and smashing it!

What you will learn in this episode:

Having a niche doesn’t lock you down to only one type of task
Why the option of starting as an associate VA can help grow your knowledge and confidence
Ways in which you can grow your own VA business to develop a great work life balance
Why building relationships with clients and other VAs will support profit growth
How everything you do is an advertisement for your own business

Connect with Jo on her Facebook or on IG @mrs_jo_m_va

Connect with Laura on her Facebook or on IG @findyourflow.consulting

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this episode, Cydelle is joined by long-time Executive Assistant, Jeremy Burrows.

As well as a very successful career as an Executive Assistant, Jeremy is also an international Speaker and Trainer, founder of The Leader Assistant Community and Premium Membership, author of the #1 Amazon Bestselling book, The Leader Assistant: Four Pillars of a Confident, Game-Changing Assistant, and host of the #1 podcast for assistants – The Leader Assistant Podcast.

Jeremy and Cydelle discuss life as an Executive Assistant and how the pandemic has contributed to the changing shape of the Business Support Professional role. They also take some time to dig deeper into what makes a good Leader Assistant and how skills as an EA can transfer to the role of Virtual Assistant.

What you will learn in this episode:

How Business Support roles are often seen as stepping stones rather than a career in its own right
The definition of a Leader Assistant
The post-pandemic role of an Executive Assistant and what changes the position has seen
How you can make the transition from Executive Assistant to Virtual Assistant
Top tips for stepping up in your role as a Business Support Professional

Jeremy has very generously offered our listeners a free download of the first 3 chapters of his #1 Amazon Bestselling book, The Leader Assistant: Four Pillars of a Confident, Game-Changing Assistant at leaderassistantbook.com and click the button “Download Free Chapters”.

Connect with Jeremy on his Website, on LinkedIn, IG @go.burrows or on Facebook

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this episode, Cydelle is joined by two members of the Onit! Communications team, Gemma Baxter and Louise Sam. This episode is part of our VA Diaries series where we dig into the careers of Virtual Assistants who have made the transition from employed, business support roles to the heady heights of self-employment as a VA and explore how they found themselves in the online space.

Gemma Baxter, an Online Business Manager, works with a number of clients but her work with Cydelle centres on the operational and day-to-day functions of VA Agency, Onit! Communications. Louise Sam is a Wellbeing centred Virtual Assistant and shares her client-facing Associate VA insights including how her experience in wellness helps her support her clients better and how being a VA helped her to become location independent.

This episode is a great insight into the world of a VA through the eyes of those who are living, breathing and smashing it!

What you will learn in this episode:

Why you don’t always need to have an administrative background to be a successful Virtual Assistant
How a skills audit can help you to prepare to become a Virtual Assistant
What you need to focus on in addition to administratively servicing your clients, in order to make it as a successful VA
How to use networking to compliment your marketing efforts

Connect with Gemma on her Facebook or on IG @gembaxtervbm

Connect with Louise on her Facebook or on IG @louisessam

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this episode, Cydelle is joined by Founder of Micro Power Marketing, Gemma Cormack.

Previously a Customer Relations Manager with luxury brands, Bentley and Rolls Royce, Gemma set up her business to travel, whilst working alongside worldwide bloggers, globally acclaimed musicians and many others.

She’s now the proud owner of the Micro Power Marketing membership; a safe and accepting space for misfits to boost their knowledge as a micro business owner and make more sales, without breaking the bank.

Gemma shares with Cydelle some key things to consider when marketing on Social Media. This episode explores common mistakes that VAs make when starting to market their business, alongside some tangible actions to take your business from strength to strength.

What you will learn in this episode:

What you need to know before you attempt to create your business branding
How much of your shared content is actually seen by your audience
Why showing up as your authentic self will attract the right clients for you
How Gemma made great strides in her business, going from billing £240 per month to £4,000 per month
Why the key to growth is implementing the skills that you learn, not just absorbing content
The steps that lead to Gemma becoming an Approved Canva Designer

Connect with Gemma on her Website or on IG @gemma_cormack

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this episode, Online Business Manager Gemma hosts a takeover and is joined by Cydelle on the other side of the table.

Speaking about transitioning from VA to VA Hirer, Gemma presses Cydelle for the motivations behind her transition from Virtual Assistant to Consultant and what that meant for her business, Onit Communications.

Cydelle shares some really key insights into the mind of a VA Hirer, including key qualities that she looks for in prospective Virtual Assistants, and also, what requirements she had of the partnership between her and her VA in order for her to feel comfortable handing over some key elements of her business.

This is a great chance to get inside the mind of a VA Hirer who understands the VA world. Don’t miss it!

What you will learn in this episode:

Organically transitioning within your business, while still achieving high results
Some of the key qualities VA Hirer’s seek in order to have a successful working relationship
Top tips for helping clients to transition from solopreneur to working with Business Support Professionals
Why successful processes in a business breed excellent habits throughout the team

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this episode, Cydelle is joined by Digital Consultant and Founder of Quantum Consultancy Services, Martin Riley.

Martin knew for a really long time that he wanted to be freelance and after making the switch from 9-to-5, to entrepreneurship, Martin now works with other small business owners to create strong foundations in their technology and to provide them with a one-stop-shop for the digital tools needed to thrive in the online space.

Using his many years of experience, Martin imparts gems of wisdom in this episode, around cyber security and exactly what VAs need to know when it comes to protecting their business, their tech and their data.

This Cyber Security for VAs episode is going to help you build a great foundation on what you need to know about cyber safety and security, so grab your favourite note-taking tool and let’s dive in.

What you will learn in this episode:

How you can leverage technology for success in your business
What measures you can put in place to prevent disasters around data storage for your online business
Digital tools available to support business growth while keeping you and your clients safe
Why disaster recovery and business continuity plans are not just for large corporations and why they should be included in your business strategy

Martin has very generously offered a 50% discount for a Cyber Security Assessment for the first 10 Virtual Duality listeners who make a booking. This consultation will assess the security of the computer you use for your day-to-day work. During this consultation, Martin will review cloud storage, backup strategy, security software and on-going support.

To claim the offer, simply use the code coupon code: ONIT during the booking process.

Connect with Martin on his Website, IG @QCSProfessional, Facebook or on LinkedIn

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This episode, Cydelle is taking a look at data management and what you need to consider around data when you’re a Virtual Assistant - especially if you’re new or just starting out.

Data management is an area of your business that needs some serious attention upfront, so that you can rest easy later, knowing it’s all in hand. The episode also explores why data management doesn’t only apply to you in your own business, but also highlights your responsibility with your clients.

With penalties as high as 4% of your organisation or business’s annual revenue, failure to exercise due diligence can be a costly breach!

You don't need to spend hours upon hours researching the best way to manage data in your VA business; everything you need to consider, from setup to client attraction, onboarding and beyond, is right here in this Beginner’s Guide to Data Management for VAs episode.

What you will learn in this episode:

The difference between data management, data protection and data security
How to identify whether you are a Data Controller or a Data Processor
The areas of your business that need attention to ensure that data management within your organisation is water-tight
Compliance steps to help you legally protect your business
Recommended tools to help you maintain data securely - in your business and for your clients

Find out if you need an ICO registration by accessing the ICO Self Assessment

Our favourite tools for data management that are recommended in this episode are Airtable, Calendly, Lastpass, Evernote, Dubsado, Zapier and ConvertKit

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This episode, Cydelle welcomes PR Consultant, Owner & Founder of Ariatu PR, Ronke Lawal to the podcast.

Ronke has a number of accolades to her name; In 2010 she was named one of the top 400 women of the year for her work with Islington Chamber of Commerce. By 2020, Ronke was awarded PR and Comms Influencer of the Year by the Vuelio Online Influence Awards.

Ronke offers her clients a full scope of expertise in order for them to show up, represent and achieve amazing results as their full authentic selves. During this episode, we get the lowdown on how to raise your visibility in your VA business, with ease.

This is an amazing opportunity to get some valuable knowledge from a very well decorated PR and Comms specialist and definitely an episode that you will want to listen to more than once!

What you will learn in this episode:

What the key components of a business plan are and what one can do for you and your business
Steps you can take to create credibility as a new business owner
How a small change of direction can provide more more success and clarity for your business
The micro steps that you can take to make big leaps forward with visibility for you and your business
How by identifying your ideal client will help you to show up in the right online places to find them, and make social media work for you

Connect with Ronke on her Website, IG @ronke.lawal, or check out her YouTube Channel Ronke Lawal Means Business

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This episode, Cydelle shares her story about how she left her successful EA career in the banking industry, to become a full time Virtual Assistant.

Though she was living the corporate dream, Cydelle found herself uninspired and dissatisfied with being unable to show up as her authentic self. By 2009, she began to wonder how she could transfer her extensive business support skills to do something more aligned with her values. After performing as a Spoken Word Artist, Cyd saw the potential for support that other artists may need to pursue their passions and her niche was born.

During this episode, you will hear the strategies that Cyd employed to make the transition from EA to VA, and discover why it wasn't an overnight jump from one career path to another, but rather careful consideration of how fulfillment could be achieved with all the tools that Cydelle already had in her armoury.

What you will learn in this episode:

How Cydelle went from high-achieving EA employee, to self-employed, sustained VA
The specific strategy that can give you a concrete tool to prepare for changing career
The learning curve required to run your own VA business, and why it’s more than just service provision
How much money you should aim to have as a financial cushion, before embarking on being a full time VA
Why other people’s opinions don’t matter

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This episode, I’m joined by VA Business Owner & Founder, Leeanne Adu of Leave It With LA VA.

With 20 years of Admin and Customer Service experience, over 10 years as an award-winning Executive Assistant to high profile C-suite execs, and two years as a Virtual Assistant business owner, Leeanne is well equipped to share how to make the switch from EA to VA.

With family life changing, Leeanne became a full time VA in 2019, and shares with us some of the mistakes that she made and how she used them to make her business even stronger. From her VA transition to her touching story of running a business while being treated for cancer, Leeanne is a force to be reckoned with and a huge inspiration.

A gem laden episode, grab your digital notebook and prepare to be inspired, with a checklist to take your VA business to another level.

What you will learn in this episode:

How an employee mindset switch to self-employed mindset benefits you and your business
The importance of communication and relationship building with clients and why this will really help you succeed
Why you should set and assert clients boundaries
What to consider to prepare to become a self-employed VA
The benefit of a well structured course that is aligned with your knowledge level

Connect with Leeanne on her Website, IG @Leaveitwithlava, or catch her podcast, The Handsy Bish Podcast

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This episode, Cydelle explores Virtual Assistant websites and how to ensure they convert.

Websites is an area of business that has been discussed previously on the podcast, but this time, from a different perspective. A website is a super valuable tool to have in your arsenal but as Cydelle maintains in her unpopular opinion, not imperative to have when you’re just starting out - as discussed in detail on episode 9.

In this episode, Cydelle gets granular on what you should consider when the time comes for you to invest in a website for your VA business and by the end of the episode, you will have heard her top tips on how to create a website that does more than just look pretty, but one that actually converts those all important browsers into buyers. Get comfy, we’re going in!

What you will learn in this episode:

The purpose of a website in your business and why it should be part of your client attraction strategy
VA website must-haves
An easy-to-understand explanation of what SEO actually means
Why cultivating the user experience will help you build a website that resonates with your ideal clients
The key specialists that will enhance your VA website - even if you build it yourself

If you haven’t listened to episode 009 on Why You Don’t Need a VA Website yet, check it out here

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This episode, I’m joined by Marketing Consultant, Shona Chambers.

Following a 20 year career in marketing, for both large corporations and as an independent consultant, Shona now provides marketing planning and strategy support for small business owners.

As Shona shares, marketing is about so much more than pretty graphics and motivational quotes. During this episode we delve into how to improve your promotional efforts, by exploring the different types of marketing, how customer insights can improve your messaging, and things to consider when planning your marketing strategy.

Shona is an expert in her field and really educates us on ways to showcase our VA businesses successfully.

What you will learn in this episode:

How to use customer insights to improve your messaging and your marketing overall
How the pandemic has changed the work from home mentality
Introvert or extrovert; what to look out for when marketing
Why you should consider a marketing audit to help you build your strategy
Realistic timeframes for building a successful marketing plan

Shona has an amazing opportunity for you; a complimentary download of chapter 1 of her book ‘100 Marketing Tips for Small Business Owners’. Click here to access.

Connect with Shona on her Website, IG @ShonaChambersMarketing, on Facebook or on LinkedIn

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This episode, Cydelle is exploring how you can begin to build your portfolio of testimonials.

Often, aspiring and emerging Virtual Assistants are unsure how to go about building their reputation and social proof bank to help attract new clients. Cydelle shares some tips on how to utilise the experience and tap into the connections that VAs already have, rather than offering to work for free.

Cydelle shares her insightful experience of building a portfolio of quality testimonials, including a copy, tweak and paste script that you can use in your own business to grab those quality testimonials! Don’t miss it.

What you will learn in this episode:

Why working for free is not a viable method to gain testimonials
Practical guidance on how to pitch for testimonials
How to get when you haven’t secured that all important first client yet
Why ideal clients are the best providers of testimonials and feedback

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This episode, I’m joined by Coach, Trainer and Mentor for ambitious Virtual Assistants, Victoria Tretis.

Victoria is an Online Business Manager who supports Virtual Assistants to embrace their expertise to become “more than a VA”. Not content with this, Victoria also has her own business support podcast called “From Virtual Assistant to Online Business Manager”, which peaked in the top 20 of the UK Apple Podcast charts for Careers, and averages around 750 downloads per month.

During this episode we talk about how Victoria made the transition from employed Personal Assistant to self-employed Virtual Assistant, what steps it required and how she had to overcome her limiting mindset to successfully take such a bold step.

As someone who has successfully transitioned, Victoria has a wealth of knowledge on this topic. Don’t miss it!

What you will learn in this episode:

How to find clients as a newly self-employed VA
Understanding how your limiting beliefs can impact your strengths and weaknesses
The importance of identifying your version of success, to help you stay in your own lane
Why the best thing an emerging VA can do, is invest in themselves

Connect with Victoria on her Website, IG @victoriatretis, on Facebook or on LinkedIn

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This episode, Cydelle discusses a topic that comes up a lot in the online space and that is whether VAs should pay for training and development, or rely on free resources to create a sustainable business.

Being a Virtual Assistant is a dual role; you have to work on your business as well as in your business and there is a limit to how much you can develop without considerable investment.

As a VA, we are a business investment for our clients by default and so it is important to recognise that we need to invest in our own businesses too.

This episode will highlight and settle some of those online debates, and really get you thinking about what you can do for yourself and your business to get to the next level. Let’s dive in.

What you will learn in this episode:

How much you can grow your business with free training
The importance of dividing your time between working IN and ON your business
How investments vary between free training and paid training
How identifying goals and determining a direction can help you decide which resources are worth the investment
How a VA mentor can provide huge value to you and your growth

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This week, Cydelle is joined by a very good friend of hers, Natalie Freeman of 13 Rhythms.

Natalie, a Business Coach and Pricing Strategist, is a woman of wealth and knowledge. Her wide range of skills span across the areas of business advisor, trainer, mentor, and consultant with a background in enterprise and entrepreneurship.

In her mission of ending the curse of the expensive hobby, Natalie supports clients by helping them gain clarity on their business ventures to ensure their products and services are both viable and profitable.

This episode is packed full with gem after gem. Stop what you are doing and grab your preferred note taking tool. You do not want to miss this!

What you will learn in this episode:

Why Market Research is integral to attracting your ideal clients
The importance of confident self-representation in public spaces
Why value based pricing is the way forward for VAs
The benefits of operating as a business partner rather than a subordinate

Want to find out more about how you can turn your passion into profit? Grab a complimentary call by booking a spot in Natalie’s diary here

Connect with Natalie on IG @13rhythms or visit her Website

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This week, Cydelle explores more on the customer journey, referencing her experiences sourcing a VA for her own business.

Business owners often seek out additional support outside of regular business hours. At that point they go looking for you. Are you certain that these potential clients are going to be able to contact you, understand what it is that you do, or even find you at all?

From irrelevant information to oversharing and broken links to missing contact details, Cydelle walks us through some of the key gaps that can result in VAs leaking clients and ultimately, leaving money on the table. Have your to-do list or digital project management tool at the ready as we dig deeper into ensuring those fundamental tasks in our own businesses are in order, to show potential clients that we can in turn, manage theirs.

What you will learn in this episode:

Why you need to be crystal clear on your service offering and be sure that you’re clearly articulating them with potential clients
The importance of sharing how you can solve your ideal client’s problem, rather than your life story
How automation plays a role in ensuring you’re prepared for discovery calls, which can directly lead to getting clients booked and banked with ease
How to set expectations and boundaries with a client before you even virtually meet them

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This week, Cydelle welcomes a guest from across the pond.

Summer Burnely, an Attorney & Business Strategist, joins us to talk about how she helps entrepreneurs protect their brand assets through business planning and US trademark law.

Starting a business is time consuming with so many moving parts to consider. This episode really gives emerging and aspiring VAs food for thought on how to keep their brand and assets safe online, for both clients and themselves.

Now running her own virtual boutique law firm, Summer gives us the lowdown on what important steps VAs should take in order to protect their businesses. There are lots of gems here for sure!

What you will learn in this episode:

How having ideal clients can help you to grow your own knowledge
Why running your own business is more than just knowing the trade
The importance of a foundational blueprint with systemisation, for business growth
How realistic expectations can assist you in growing your business
Why the mindset of taking on any job just for money, can affect attracting your ideal clients

For a complimentary coffee and chat with Summer about the services that her boutique law firm can offer you, grab a spot in her diary here

Connect with Summer on IG @Burnleylaw or Facebook

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

Welcome to Season 2 of Virtual Duality!

To kick-off our next series, Cydelle explores one of the most talked about topics in VA forums - client attraction.

People are often intently focused on digital marketing via social media, rather than exploring the journey - and it's just that, a journey. There are fundamental steps that need to take place because, let’s face it, clients won’t just fall out of the sky and into your lap!

Join Cydelle as she walks you through her 7 step process that will have you marketing to the right people, so you can attract those coveted ideal clients. Get comfy, we’re going in!

What you will learn in this episode:

How developing your brand and values will have you showing up for the right clients
Why a niche will increase your income
What to share in your marketing
How to use onboarding to solidify the client relationship
How to use recommendations to continue to grow your client base

Check out Cyd’s recommended book, Start with Why by Simon Sinek

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Connect with Cydelle via IG @CydelleStewart or her website www.cydellestewart.com

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action

This week, Cydelle is joined by Design Consultant, Kayleigh Hall of Hall Creative.

Kayleigh is a brand extraordinaire and works with clients to bring your brand and online presence to life, making you so visually irresistible that clients can’t help but want to engage with you.

Kayleigh is passionate about design being an integral part of brand development rather than the last step in the process, and in this episode she shares with us the science behind design.

What you will learn in this episode:

What should you be focusing on early in your business
Key considerations in creating DIY branding
How the natural evolution of your business can affect your branding
How your brand accentuates your business identity
What brand consistency is and how to achieve it

Connect with Kayleigh on IG @hallcreative, Facebook or via her Website

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want to excel, in these digital streets! Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

011: 13 Tools VAs Need

This week, Cydelle dips into her favourite resources and shares with you, her recommended top 13 tools that every VA needs in their business. From graphic design to accounting, note-taking to email, Cydelle sheds some light on how you can take your business to the next level, right from the get-go!

Digital notebooks at the ready people, this one is going to have you slick, sexy and systemised by the end of the episode!

What you will learn in this episode:

The importance of perception and professional email address
How these tools will have you efficient, effective and streamlined
Why the right tool will save you time and money
How you can use tools to modify your pricing structure
Actionable tips to take away and implement

Check out our referral codes for Airtable, Canva, ConvertKit, and Hellosign

There may be affiliate links in these recommended tools which means ONiT! PR Limited may or may not receive a small gift for referring you. This may also benefit you, depending on the platform and does not cost you any thing additional. We only ever recommend tools that we or our clients use personally. Thank you.

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit and join the waiting list to be notified of the forthcoming launch.

Connect with us on IG @VirtualDuality

This week, Cydelle is joined by Brand Identity & Strategy Expert, Jae Gibbs.

Jae has 15 years of experience creating and building global FMCG and local independent brands. She enables brand averse changemakers to create a positive change, by helping clients define their unique brand.

Jae brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast and is here to talk with Cydelle about why brand marketing is so important, and much more than just a logo and colour palette!

What you will learn in this episode:

How to identify your ideal client community for your unique brand
Why you should know what your ideal client needs before creating your visual brand assets
Why healthy relationships will increase your business sustainability
How clarity is confidence
How creating your brand is also an opportunity to shape your business

Connect with Jae on IG @empowering_purpose or via her website, www.empoweringpurpose.co.uk

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want to excel in these digital streets! Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This week, Cydelle shares her controversial view on websites and why an emerging VA doesn’t need one.

This is a topic that is discussed at length in VA forums and online spaces but let’s be clear; a good website that will generate potential clients, takes a considerable investment and we’re not talking money. There is a lot of work that goes into building a website - it’s far more work than just choosing a logo and pretty colour palette.

Cydelle not only explores why you don’t need a website, but also what you can use instead to create yourself a digital home. Get ready to take plenty of notes on this one!

What you will learn in this episode:

Why a website is such a considerable investment
Why VAs do NOT need a CV or Resumé
How to create an effective digital presence
The pros and cons of available tools for creating a digital presence
What copy you should be sharing in your digital home

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Connect with Cydelle on IG @CydelleStewart, Clubhouse, or her website www.cydellestewart.com

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want to excel in these digital streets! Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This week, Cydelle is joined by Online Course Creator, Corinne Worsley.

Corinne, also a successful Speaker and Podcaster, explores how to ditch people pleasing and establish healthy boundaries, to build a joyful business that serves your wants and needs.

This episode is essential listening for those of us who get caught up with over people-pleasing, often to our detriment. Get ready to change the way you work.

What you will learn in this episode:

How past work experience can influence your current plans
How to shape your life and business based on the lifestyle you desire
Why corporate controls, restrictions and behaviours need to be unlearned to succeed in business
Why you need to choose discomfort over resentment
That boundaries are a healthy way to delight your clients

Check out Corinne’s free quiz to discover how much of a people pleaser you are, here

Listen to Corrine’s podcast episode about living in harmony with your cycle, here

Connect with Corinne on IG @corinneworsley, Clubhouse @corinneworsley, or Facebook

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This week, Cydelle talks about a key tool that all Virtual Assistants (VAs) need in their armoury; Discovery Calls.

Cydelle loves a Discovery Call and you will do too, after you hear her breakdown on how this low investment, high-impact tool, can help you to identify whether a prospective client fits your ideal client profile, and aligns with your values.

A Discovery Call can present itself in a number of different guises: intro meeting, free consult(ation), sales call or as she calls hers, a PosAbility call. The question is, why is this such an important step for client acquisition, and what exactly does it mean?

As always, our Master of Ceremonies is here to bust more myths and help you deliver excellence to your clients!

What you will learn in this episode:

The purpose of a discovery call
How a discovery call can prevent clients from assuming unrealistic expectations
Why a discovery call is NOT an interview
What information you should gather on a discovery call
How a discovery call can shape your pricing

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Connect with Cydelle on IG @CydelleStewart, Clubhouse, or her website www.cydellestewart.com

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want to excel in these digital streets! Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This week, Cydelle is joined by Online Business Consultant, Kase Dean.

Kase is a lead generation and sales conversion system specialist and shares with us some real nuggets of wisdom around building an online business.

You’ll definitely want to take notes - so grab your favourite digital notebook or pen and get ready to attend class!

What you will learn in this episode:

The benefits of digitising human interaction
How thinking outside the box will help you find your ideal clients
Why confidence and clarity are as important as mindset
Why transformation-based pricing is the way forward

Check out Kase’s website here

Connect with Kase on IG @kasedean, Twitter @KaseDean or Facebook

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs). Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This week, Cydelle discusses something that is not only very dear to her heart, but also a key component in client engagement, retention and client loyalty - managing expectations.

Expectation management is something that new business owners - particularly VAs - often find to be quite challenging in the adjustment from employee mindset to that of a service provider.

In this episode, Cydelle shares her 4-step framework on how to create Client Delight in your Client Experiences and Journey’s, that will have them coming back for more.

What you will learn in this episode:

How you can stand out in the crowd for your potential ideal clients
Why the initial groundwork with a client is so important
Tools that can help you to manage client expectations
Why off-boarding is as important as onboarding
Simple tips to really delight your clients

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Connect with Cydelle on IG @CydelleStewart, Clubhouse, or her website www.cydellestewart.com

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want to excel in these digital streets! Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In today's episode Cydelle is joined by Emilia Powell.

Super passionate about boundaries and time management, Emilia is a successful VA business owner, mentor and also hosts her own podcast.

Cydelle and Emilia have a great chat about why boundaries with clients are so important and the impact that they can have on the client-service provider relationship.

What you'll learn in this episode:

Boundaries and boundary setting with clients
Setting up in business and the backlash Emilia encountered
Why you should focus on your strengths not your weaknesses
How working in an online business can provide you with freedom to travel the world
Difficulties you can face with clients when you don't manage their expectations

Access Emilia's guide to finding the ideal client, here

Connect with Emilia on IG @thevadiaries or Facebook

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want to excel in these digital streets! Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

This week Cydelle talks about the myth that VAs need VA experience to secure clients.

With common myths and misinformation giving negative impressions of the VA world - that can cast a shadow over your self-belief - it's all too easy to become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

Settle in for story time with Cyd, and learn why some VAs are setting themselves up for failure by thinking that they need experience as a Virtual Assistant, in order to be a successful Virtual Assistant.

What you'll learn in this episode:

Why VAs need to operate like professional service providers
How your employee experience can translate into the, online, VA world
How you can guide clients, to help in setting expectations
How to stand out from the crowd
Why getting clear on your ideal client is paramount to your success

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Connect with Cydelle on IG @CydelleStewart, Clubhouse, or her website www.cydellestewart.com

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want to excel in these digital streets! Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In this week's episode Cydelle is joined by Online Consultant and Strategist Chido Mbavarira, all the way from Canada.

Chido shares with us her extensive knowledge from her time working as a VA, then OBM before her transition to Strategist, providing priceless gems around boundaries and why these are so important for you and your clients.

What you'll learn in this episode:

Why you can't continue with the same messages about your business and products from 2020, going forward
How losing her job shaped Chido's future
How mindset plays a big part in becoming self-employed
Why trying to do "all the things" can have a detrimental impact on your service delivery and your business
How undercharging devalues your business
How can you earn more and sell more in your online business in the next 30 days

Take Chido's short quiz here and she will personally recommend the exact next steps that you should take; a strategy to earn more and sell more with your business online.  

Connect with Chido on IG / Twitter / Facebook 

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want to excel in these digital streets! Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

In today's episode we get a little insight into our host, Cydelle Stewart.

Why she loves what she does, how she got here and why first impressions are not always accurate.

Cydelle is a self-confessed grafter and figured out this virtual journey by trying, failing, doing and slaying until she found her groove.

In this episode you'll learn about:

Cydelle's business background
How her "dinosaur" experience translated in the online space
Why she made the difficult decision to change her business model after six years
What you can expect from the Virtual Duality podcast

Like it? Please leave a comment, follow the pod, and share!

Connect with Cydelle on IG @CydelleStewart, Clubhouse, or her website www.cydellestewart.com

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want to excel in these digital streets! Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom

Virtual Duality is the podcast for Aspiring and Emerging Virtual Assistants who want the low down on whether being a VA is a viable career path for them, and if so, how to excel in these digital streets!

How so, you may wonder? Well, for over 20 years, our host Cydelle Stewart was an Executive Assistant in the world of corporate and commercial employment. A former Virtual Assistant (VA) - for over 10 years - today, she is a Business Operations and Online Client Experience expert and the Founder of Virtual Assistant Agency, Onit! Communications.

Cydelle will be coming to you every week - solo or with a guest - to share expert insights, useful resources and actionable tips galore.

Get comfy, we're going in...

Follow the pod and share!

Connect with Cydelle on IG @CydelleStewart, Clubhouse, or her website www.cydellestewart.com

Virtual Duality is brought to you by FromPAtoVA.com the Global Empowerment Hub from Cydelle Stewart, for Aspiring & Emerging Virtual Assistants (VAs) who want to excel in these digital streets! Visit. Download. Invest. Excel.

Connect with us on IG @FromPAtoVADotCom