This week it is my pleasure to introduce you to Jacy Ellenico of Virtually Accomplished, often referred to as the Queen of Instagram within my VA Membership. Jacy has been on a huge professional journey over the last 12 months, and I have to say, it’s been a pleasure to support her through her business creation as part of my Luminary 1:2:1 Coaching programme.  Her business has massively morphed and changed over the 12 months and I cannot wait to see where it goes moving forwards.

Hi, I’m Jacy, I’ve been a Virtual Assistant for a year now.  I specialise in Social Media Management, Instagram Engagement, and, Instagram Strategy. Of all the social media platforms, I have found Instagram to be the most engaging and have made genuine connections through it. I found myself learning more and more about Instagram and people were coming to me for advice on how to grow theirs, tips, and tricks and my page grew fairly quickly and organically. My clients are varied but I mainly work with Coaches and VA’s.

What or who inspired you to become a Virtual Assistant?

I’ve wanted to be a VA for a long time, the idea of having the flexibility to work around my children and being self-employed was appealing to me. I felt the time was right over a year ago, my youngest child had started junior school and I felt that I had more time to do things for myself. I began researching and researching some more. I love a bit of research.

How did you go about establishing your business?

I knew straight away that I didn’t want to do this alone. I started looking into possible mentors and franchise options. I quickly decided the franchise option wasn’t for me as I wanted to do this alone and felt that I could. I found Amanda online and we quickly had a discovery call. It’s been said before but, her no-nonsense approach appealed to me and the course was the perfect way to build my knowledge.

Did you have any savings or financial support to start your business?

I was and am lucky enough to have the support of my husband plus other income that I could rely on at the time.

Was there ever a point when you thought it wouldn’t work out?

Plenty of times. There have been times when I just felt I couldn’t do it but, in retrospect, those are the times when you grow and you’re outside of your comfort zone.

What support did you have around you to set up your VA business (family and friends, Coach or Mentor)?

Initially, it was only Amanda and my closest family. I relied heavily on Amanda and I still do, just one more question Amanda …🤣

If you could go back and change one thing that you did when starting out, what would that be?

I didn’t start networking straight away as I didn’t have the confidence. This was a mistake, nothing bad happens, it can feel strange to start with but the people you meet are all in the same boat and are nothing but supportive. It’s not as bad as you think – ever.

What is your best advice for someone who is just starting out or someone who is considering becoming a Virtual Assistant?

Be prepared for it to be a lot of hard work, you need to dig deep and push yourself out of your comfort zone. Be prepared to make online connections and not think you can do it all alone – you can’t. Most of all, go for it, you won’t regret it.

How would you describe the good, the bad and ugly of being a Virtual Assistant?

The good – I can honestly say this is the most supportive environment, I’ve met so many kind, lovely people, and I feel honoured to be part of the VA world.

The bad – Getting clients isn’t easy, you have to put the work in and be prepared to network and build the know like and trust factor.

The ugly – Most clients are lovely however, you will have some difficult people to deal with and that’s down to you to put your big girl knickers on and deal with it.

What is the best business book you’ve read and how did it impact you and your business?

It’s not a business book as such but “Make Your Bed” has been an inspirational book.  It gives 10 impactful life lessons.  It’s a short really interesting book.

How do you stay on top of your own professional development?

As mentioned above, I am a researcher, I love to see what is happening in my niche and be ahead of the curve.  If I don’t know how to do something, I will find out.

What do you love to do when you’re not working?

Spending time with my children, husband, and dog. I have 3 children, 2 girls, and a boy. My girls are both at senior school and I can feel that move away from me compared to when they were little, so I like to spend as much time with them all as possible.

Tell us one thing you can tell us about you that not many people know?

I have quite a wicked sense of humour – once you get to know me.

What does the future hold for your business?

Over the next year, I plan to learn more about my niche, continue with social media management, and helping people build their business on Instagram. I love it.

Learn more and connect with Jacy:

Website URL: virtuallyaccomplished.co.uk

Instagram:  instagram.com/virtuallyaccomplished

Facebook URL: facebook.com/virtuallyaccomplished

LinkedIn URL: linkedin.com/in/jacyellenico