In my last blog, I shared why networking has been such an important part of building my VA business. I also promised to share some of the hints and techniques that helped me – as someone who started with zero confidence – feel more comfortable and confident in the room. So, if you’re feeling nervous at the thought of networking, these networking tips for virtual assistants are for you.
Write (and time) your pitch
When you first start networking, type out your pitch in full. Check how long you’ll get and practise a few times while timing yourself.
There’s nothing worse than suddenly having someone call “time!” before you’ve finished. Normally they’ll let you wrap up, but you don’t want to go way over your slot.
If you need to take your notes with you and read from them, do it. Just make sure you look up and make eye contact, don’t bury your head in the page. Even after 7 years, I still read pretty much all of my pitch. I just cannot ad-lib or go without notes without getting muddled. Don’t force yourself to do something that doesn’t work for you.
Keep your pitch fresh
If you join a membership group where you’re seeing the same people regularly, change your pitch each meeting. If you keep saying exactly the same thing, people will switch off.
Don’t just say: “Hi, I’m X and I’m a VA. I do admin etc.” – that’s boring. Instead, focus on a problem a client might have, explain how you can solve it, and finish with how the client will feel once the problem is solved.
Need some inspiration? I’ve created a free download with 6 ready-to-use networking pitches for virtual assistants. They’re story-based, take around 70 seconds to say, and will help you stand out in the room. Grab your copy here
Arrive early
Aim to arrive at least 20 minutes before the start time. This gives you breathing space if you get held up as there’s nothing worse than walking into a room full of people you don’t know, late.
Getting there early also usually means there are fewer people in the room, which can make it easier to walk in and settle. Find the host and introduce yourself, they’ll usually explain anything you need to know.
All members were new at some stage, so they might approach you first. If you get sent a list of attendees beforehand, check if there are any other visitors listed – they may well be just as nervous as you.
Break the ice with small talk
If you find it hard to make small talk, head towards the refreshments table. You can start simple: talk about the weather, compliment someone on what they’re wearing, or just smile and ask how they’re finding the group. Then move on to questions like: What do you do? How long have you been doing it?
Listen more than you talk
Networking isn’t about selling, it’s about relationships. Asking questions and showing genuine interest in others not only takes the pressure off you but also helps people remember you as someone approachable and supportive.
No one’s watching you as closely as you think
When I first walked into a networking meeting, I felt like everyone’s eyes were on me. The truth? Most people are just as nervous and are thinking about what they’re going to say. Realising this took the pressure off – I didn’t have to be perfect, just present.
Choose the right format for you
Not all networking groups are the same. I started (and stayed) in a lock-out group (where there’s only one VA in the room) and it was the best choice for my confidence. I wasn’t competing with others offering the same services, so I could focus on finding my voice.
Keep showing up
Confidence doesn’t arrive in one meeting. It comes from turning up consistently, getting familiar faces in the room, and gradually feeling more at ease. Every time I went back, it got easier, and eventually, I even looked forward to it!
Don’t skip the follow-up
The magic of networking often happens after the meeting. It’s not always about whether you need the service that person offers or they need yours, it’s about who they know, who you know that might need them, and simply taking the time to get to know the person.
A short message saying, “Great to meet you today, I’d love to find out more about you/your business, would you like to grab a coffee and chat more?” can be the start of a great relationship. Don’t overthink it – most people are delighted you reached out. And if you don’t want to do face-to-face over coffee, suggest using Zoom/Teams/Google meets – people won’t mind.
Final thought
Networking felt terrifying when I first started, but over time it’s become the most effective part of my marketing.
If you’re nervous, know this: you don’t have to be the loudest in the room to be memorable. You just have to be yourself, show up consistently, and give people the chance to get to know, like and trust you.
If networking makes your stomach churn, you’re not alone, but confidence really does grow with practice and if you want a simple way to keep all your networking notes in one place, my networking planner might help.
And if you’d like support in working out where to put your energy as you build your VA business, my Foundations First session could help.
