Lounge by the sea

This week, I had the pleasure of speaking at Lounge by the Sea in Deal. It was a fantastic event that really highlighted the power of collaboration and, importantly, the incredible benefits of being curious in our professional lives. It got me thinking about how often curiosity underpins our biggest breakthroughs.

When I attend events like this, I always make the most of the journey. For me, that means hitting the road and using the drive as dedicated professional development time – a perfect opportunity to indulge my curiosity! This trip was no exception. I managed to finish Sara Davies’ insightful book, “The Six Minute Entrepreneur,” and catch up on all the brilliant podcasts I follow. It’s amazing what you can learn and how new ideas can spark just by being open to absorbing information.

The Joy of Learning: Your Continuous Growth as a VA

Think back to a time when your curiosity led you to master a new skill or discover a more efficient way of working. Perhaps it was exploring a new software that streamlined a client process, delving into the intricacies of social media management to boost engagement, or simply asking yourself, “How can I do this even better?”

Being open to learning as a VA isn’t just about ticking off training modules; it’s about cultivating a mindset of continuous improvement. This means:

• Keeping up-to-date: Staying informed about the latest digital tools, industry best practices, and the ever-evolving business landscape.
• Actively seeking knowledge: Looking for opportunities to expand your skillset through resources like the courses I host at the VA Training Academy, webinars, and trusted industry materials.
• Being open to new ideas: Willing to consider different approaches and adapt your methods to better serve your clients.

The Strength of Conversations: Connecting and Understanding

As a VA, your communication skills are paramount. Curiosity fuels richer, more productive conversations with both your clients and fellow professionals. When you approach interactions with genuine interest, asking insightful questions and truly listening to the responses, you can:

• Gain deeper understanding: Truly uncover your clients’ core needs and the underlying challenges they face.
• Build stronger client relationships: Foster trust and rapport through engaged communication that shows you genuinely care about their success.
• Network effectively: Connect with other VAs and industry experts, leading to valuable collaborations and a supportive community.

Make a conscious effort this week to approach your client interactions and networking with a sense of genuine curiosity. Ask those probing questions, resist the urge to jump in with your own thoughts, and truly listen to what’s being said. You might be surprised by the valuable insights and connections you make.

The Excitement of Opportunities: Spotting New Avenues

A curious approach naturally makes you more receptive to new possibilities in the VA world. When you’re open to exploring different avenues, you’re more likely to:

• Identify niche specialisations: Discover unique areas where your skills and passions align, whether that’s a specific software, a particular industry sector, or even a set of core values you champion.
• Embrace new types of projects: Step outside your comfort zone and broaden your service offerings, leading to more varied and fulfilling work.
• Adapt to the evolving needs of clients: Be agile and responsive to changing demands, positioning yourself as a forward-thinking partner.

Keep your eyes peeled for new opportunities – they often present themselves when you’re actively curious about what’s out there and willing to explore the unknown.

The Added Bonus: Immersing Yourself in Industry Events, Including the UK VA Conference!

A fantastic way to fuel your curiosity and stay connected is by attending industry events. These gatherings offer a brilliant chance to:

• Learn from experts: Hear from leaders in the field and discover new trends that can impact your business.
• Network with peers: Connect with other VAs, share experiences, and build your support network.
• Discover new tools and resources: See firsthand the latest innovations that can enhance your business efficiency.

Speaking of great events, have you bought your ticket to the UK VA Conference happening on 17th October 2025 in Bournemouth? It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn, connect, and fuel your curiosity!

You can find all the details and book your spot here: https://vatrainingacademy.co.uk/va-conference-and-awards/

I’d love to see you there!

Putting Your Curiosity to Work This Week:

Here are a few practical ways to nurture your curiosity as a VA:

• Ask probing questions: Don’t just take client briefs at face value – dig deeper to understand their motivations and desired outcomes.
• Dedicate time for learning: Set aside specific time each week to explore a new tool, read industry articles, or delve into a topic that sparks your interest. Consider exploring the courses available at the VA Training Academy for structured learning.
• Reach out to another VA: Connect with someone in the community whose work you admire and ask about their experiences or specialisations.
• Brainstorm new service offerings: Let your imagination wander and consider how you could expand your services based on emerging needs or your own evolving skills.
• Stop:  Put time in your diary to just stop and be present. You will be amazed at where your brain takes you. 

Embracing curiosity isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a vital ingredient for a thriving VA business. By staying open to learning, engaging in meaningful conversations, and being receptive to new opportunities – including attending key industry events like the UK VA Conference – you can unlock your full potential and build a successful and fulfilling career.

What sparks your curiosity right now? Is there a particular skill you’re eager to learn, a book you’re engrossed in, or a topic you’re keen to explore within the VA world?

Click on the link below –  I’m always curious to hear what’s on your mind or to learn what you are reading/listening to.