Blog – Page 39 – VA Training Academy®

Guest Blog By Karen Williams

26th May 2017

Is your client writing a book? Karen Williams, The Book Mentor, joins us to explain exactly how a VA can support a coach or consultant through the writing, publishing, and marketing process to ensure their book becomes a bestseller.

Wednesday VA Wisdom – Louisa Stewart

22nd March 2017

“I’m terrified of change, but I try to see it as an opportunity rather than a traumatic experience.” In this edition of Wednesday VA Wisdom, we sit down with Louisa Stewart, the founder of Blue Ninja. Louisa shares her unique journey from managing high-stress grants in the third sector to launching her own “Virtual Administration” consultancy. From surviving the “doubters” to the lessons she learned about accounting software and the power of a quirky brand identity, Louisa’s story is a masterclass in professional resilience and niche expertise.

How To Be Busy Without Burnout

15th March 2017

The 21st-century habit of perpetual busyness is the quickest route to burnout. This post explores practical anti-burnout strategies, including the Pomodoro technique for focused productivity, the importance of accurate task timing, and the power of setting firm boundaries on what you will and won’t do to maintain long-term business sustainability.

An interview with Judith Andrews

15th February 2017

“My superpower is making sense from chaos.” After facing redundancy in 2016, Judith Andrews decided to stop building someone else’s dream and started her own. From a “tough” first year to launching a Board Secretary service, Judith shares the reality of the emotional and financial rollercoaster of starting a VA business. Discover why she believes you should manage your energy instead of your time, the importance of a “success buddy,” and the surprising second business she’s launching alongside her VA firm.

An Interview with Catherine Blackwood

1st February 2017

“I knew that ultimately, I was in control of my success.” In this week’s Wednesday Wisdom, we meet Catherine Blackwood, runner-up for Best Newcomer at the 2016 VA Awards. Catherine opens up about launching Blackwood Executive Assistance following redundancy during maternity leave, how she leveraged her background in the Oil & Gas industry to find her niche, and her best advice for fellow worriers: reach out, ask questions, and embrace the power of networking to build the career and life you love.

How to share your computer screen with someone else

4th September 2015

How many times have you tried to explain a technical fix to a client, only for them to stay completely confused? It is time to stop talking and start showing. I have reviewed the best screen sharing tools for 2026, including the shift from Skype to Teams and the power of asynchronous video. Read the blog to find your new favourite tool.

Marketing on a budget

28th August 2015

Marketing a VA business on a budget in 2026 requires a focus on value over volume. From short-form video to strategic collaborations, learn how to build relationships and grow your brand without a massive financial investment.

An Interview with Sarah Clewes – All About Admin

21st August 2015

“This is your life; it’s not a dress rehearsal.” After 20 years in the Royal Navy, Sarah transitioned from the high seas to the world of high-level administration. As the founder of All About Admin, she specializes in untangling IT overwhelm and building efficient action plans for focused business owners. Discover how she successfully pitched the benefits of outsourcing to skeptical organizations, why she views her VA-client relationships as business partnerships, and what it’s actually like to be catapulted off an American aircraft carrier.

How to share passwords securely with your clients

31st July 2015

Security is not just a feature of your VA business; it is a core value. Sending passwords via email or plain text is a liability. My latest post explores professional alternatives like shared vaults and self-destructing links. Discover how to handle sensitive data like a pro.

Password Protection tools

24th July 2015

Password security is a non-negotiable standard for professional Virtual Assistants. This post explores the best password managers for 2026, addressing data breaches, transparency, and the tools you need to protect your client data effectively.

About AMANDA

Amanda Johnson is not just a mentor; she is a catalyst for transformation in the Virtual Assistant industry, helping professionals not only start but scale their businesses to new heights. Her dedication to her clients’ success is matched only by her commitment to integrity, honesty, and empowerment.