Welcome to another episode of the podcast that teaches you how to be a ridiculously good virtual assistant.
Today I want to talk about attending business events to grow your VA business.
Today’s Quote: Success is where preparation and opportunity meet. – Bobby Unser
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Connect with Tracey D’Aviero, VA Coach and Trainer
Episode Notes:
First things first I want to say welcome to episode 150!!
I’m so proud to have started this podcast back in July 2022, and I’ve come to you at least once a week since then. I’ve only missed a couple!
So yay me and yay you too, I so appreciate you continuing to tune in every week. If you weren’t here, I probably wouldn’t be either!
Let’s talk about something that can seriously move the needle in your business: attending VA and business events.
Now, when you hear the word “event,” you might immediately picture an expensive conference at a hotel, or maybe you think about sitting in a virtual Zoom room with your camera off, feeling awkward.
But here’s the thing. Events come in all shapes and sizes. Whether they’re virtual or in-person, free or paid, big or small, they can give you a real energy boost and a clear path to grow your business.
So in this episode, we’re going to walk through why attending events matters, how to choose the ones that are worth your time, and how to make the most of them once you’re there.
Here we go!
Why Events Matter
Events are not just for extroverts or people who already have a full roster of clients. They’re for you, right where you are in your business journey. When you attend an event, you step outside of your usual work routine and that’s where the magic happens.
Working alone, which most VAs do, can easily keep you in a bit of a bubble. You may be stuck in the same habits, going in circles with your doubts, or just not realizing how much possibility is out there for you. Events give you exposure to new ideas, new tools, and new ways of thinking that can shift everything.
Even just being in the same space, whether virtually or in person, with other business owners can change your perspective. It builds belief. When you see other people doing the things you want to do, you begin to think maybe you can do it too. That’s huge for building confidence.
Attending events also helps you begin to see yourself differently. It reinforces the idea that you are not just a service provider—you are a business owner. That shift alone can help you show up in your business with more intention and ownership.
I always knew I was a good VA. I had been a good employee, I was a good wife and mother, volunteer – whatever I did I put my heart and soul into. I learned stuff, I applied it, and I always tried to be the best I could be.
But when I started attending events with other business folks, man! It was so much better. I grew so much more confidence in myself, and I loved making the connections to all the other amazing business people there. These were my peeps! It was fun, and very, very good for my business!
Types of Events That Can Help You Grow
There are all kinds of events out there, so let’s talk about what to look for depending on where you’re at in your business.
There are VA-specific events, where the content is created by people who understand our industry. These might be conferences, networking sessions, summits, or training days. You’ll often see topics like setting your rates, finding clients, getting organized, or building confidence—all the things that VAs need to hear.
I’ve invited you to many events like this, and next week Freelance U’s Freelance Over 50 Summit is happening, get registered for that if you haven’t already! The link is in the show notes for this episode.
Then there are general business events. These aren’t necessarily focused on virtual assistants, but they are valuable. They might focus on digital marketing, social media, productivity, tools, or leadership. These are especially helpful when you’re niching down or trying to grow in a particular direction.
You’ll also find plenty of free events, like webinars or live trainings. These are great for getting a feel for someone’s teaching style or learning a few key tips. Just because something is free doesn’t mean it won’t be helpful.
On the flip side, paid events can go deeper. That doesn’t mean you need to spend hundreds of dollars to see value, but often, when someone charges for their time and effort, it means they’re offering a more focused experience or a smaller, more engaged group of people.
In-person events and virtual ones both have value. In-person events give you a break from your regular environment and help you connect with others face-to-face. Virtual events are more accessible and often easier to attend if you’re balancing work and personal responsibilities.
I remember attending my first online conference, it was through VA Networking. Tanya does an amazing job at her annual conference for VAs. VA Virtuosos – VAVS for short. The best parts is the system she uses allows people to network and chat during sessions, and she has networking sessions too. I couldn’t believe there were so many others ‘like’ me. Bam. VAs became ny best friends.
I also attended FoVA as my first in person conference, in Toronto. it was hosted by a VA named Barbara who has since relocated to the US, but at the time she lived in Toronto. I went for one day of two, and brought my mom and 6 year old son. They hung out for the day and we stayed in the hotel. We all loved it and the next year I went for all 3 days by myself!
Content specifically for VAs and hanging out with only VAs was invaluable. And I absolutely still use some of the things I learned in those conference in my business today. Over 20 years later.
How to Choose the Right Events
Not every event is right for you, and that’s okay. The key is to pick ones that align with your goals.
Start by thinking about what you want to achieve right now. If you’re working on landing your first few clients, you’ll want an event that talks about lead generation or marketing. If you’re trying to raise your rates, you might benefit more from something focused on mindset or client communication.
Take a look at who is hosting the event and who the speakers are. Do you trust their experience? Do they speak your language? Do they understand your industry? You want to learn from people who are a few steps ahead of you and whose advice feels aligned with the way you want to run your business.
Also, think about the vibe of the event. Some events are high-energy and fast-paced. Others are more casual and conversational. You know yourself best. Choose something that will stretch you a little without making you want to run away and hide.
Finally, make sure you can realistically attend and engage. Even the best event won’t help you if you can’t show up for it fully. Sometimes one focused event is more impactful than attending a bunch of things halfway.
Taking part is THE key to getting your money’s worth. introduce yourself, connect with others, ask questions, and share your experiences too.
I have travelled to many conferences too. Making the decision to attend a conference in person is a big one, and as such you need to know what your goal is. I have gone to conferences and events where the room is full of my ideal clients. Some events I attended my clients also attended. I have paid for vendor tables. I have gone to learn stuff. I have gone to socialize. It’s not always about getting clients, it’s sometimes about learning or about strengthening the relationships with your clients or people you would like to work with.
I attended the very first talk a business owner ever did. She ended up being my coach years later, and she has a 7+ figure coaching biz now. She knows me, she refers me, and she helps me anytime I ask her to. She is a great connection!
What to Do Before the Event
Preparation makes a big difference when it comes to getting the most out of any event.
Start by setting a clear goal. Ask yourself what you want to walk away with. Maybe it’s a new idea, a clearer understanding of something, or a few new connections. Going in with a goal helps you stay focused. Just like I said a few minutes ago, it’ not always about getting a client.
Be ready to talk about your business. You don’t need a perfect elevator pitch, in fact I hate pitches. Don’t do one. But you do need to confidently share who you help and what kind of work you do. Practicing this ahead of time can help you feel more grounded and ready to connect. Ask questions and create conversations…way better than a pitch.
It’s also a good idea to read up on the event schedule and speakers. Knowing what to expect lets you plan your time and attention.
And if it’s a virtual event, take a few minutes to test your tech. Make sure your camera works, your mic sounds good, and your space is ready. Being prepared helps you show up confidently.
How to Show Up During the Event
This is where a lot of the transformation happens. It’s not just about being in the room. It’s about how you show up while you’re there.
If the event is online, turn your camera on when you can. Use the chat to engage. Ask questions if there’s an opportunity. These simple actions help you feel seen, and they help others get to know you too.
Take notes in a way that supports action. Rather than trying to write down everything that’s said, jot down your biggest takeaways and what you want to do with the information.
When you’re in breakout rooms or group chats, introduce yourself. If someone shares something that resonates, tell them. Building relationships during events is one of the best parts of attending them.
If it’s an in person event and there is a mic, stand up and ask a question. introduce yourself hi I’m Tracey DAviero, I’m a Virtual Assistant and then ask a thoughtful question. Everyone in the room will want to talk to you. They have questions about working with a VA, and chances are you will be thebonlynone in the room. At least the only one they know for sure is a VA. Confidence!!
What to Do After the Event
What you do after the event is just as important as attending. This is when you take the energy and inspiration and turn it into action.
Start by following up with anyone you connected with. A quick message to say it was nice to meet them goes a long way. If you want to continue the conversation or schedule a coffee chat, even better.
Go back through your notes and highlight the most important takeaways. Ask yourself what you want to implement right away.
Pick one action you can take in the next few days. It might be trying a new strategy, setting up a system, or reaching out to someone.
And if something you learned really stood out, share it. You can post about it on social media, mention it in your newsletter, or bring it up in conversation with clients or peers. Talking about your growth positions you as someone who’s taking their business seriously.
It is so true that the fortune is in the follow up. focus on cultivating relationships. That means talking to people after you meet them. Follow up gets you clients!
Common Fears About Attending Events
It’s totally normal to feel nervous about events. Let’s go over some common fears and why they shouldn’t hold you back.
“I’m not ready yet.” But the truth is, you become ready by showing up. You don’t have to have it all figured out before you start learning or connecting with others.
“I’m too introverted.” But being at an event doesn’t mean you have to be the loudest person in the room. Introverts are often excellent listeners and thoughtful contributors. You don’t have to talk a lot to make a meaningful connection. Asking questions of others is the best way to talk without selling yourself.
“I don’t know anyone.” That’s exactly the point of going. Events are designed for people to meet new people. Everyone is there to learn and grow. You won’t be the only one stepping outside your comfort zone. Connect with the host if you are nervous. Their reason for hosting the event is to connect people, they will help you connect!
That event I told you about earlier, was Lisa Larter’s first talk. I went, there were 100 women in the room. I botched everything about it. I sat on my with the 6 women at my table. None of them needed my services. I walked around and left my business card at about 50 other place settings. I never talked to any of them. But I still talk about that event a lot because I got better at it after that. It was amazing!! I learned so much.
Attending events is one of the simplest ways to spark new ideas, make meaningful connections, and remind yourself that you are not alone in building your business. Even if you only attend one or two this year, showing up with intention and curiosity can completely shift your confidence and your momentum.
Don’t wait until everything’s perfect. Choose one event that feels like a good fit and go for it. Be present, participate, and follow through. You’ll be amazed at what can come from that one simple action.
I’ll be hosting a VA conference online soon – you have to come, and you have to go to VAVS in the fall too. They are events for VAs.
And you should find other events to attend too. Investing is sometimes necessary so make sure of what you want to get out of it.
Get your practice at free events, and then invest in ones that can move your business forward.
You can do it! I’d love to help!
Do You Need Help?
And if you’re looking for more support in building a confident and profitable VA business, check out my programs and services on my website.
I’m Tracey D’Aviero, Confidence Coach for VAs. That’s all I’ve got for you this week. As always, if you are looking for more resources to grow your amazing VA business, connect with me on my website YourVAMentor.com/links is where you can find all of my trainings and resources and link to connect with me on social media.