Keep networking to build for business success

“DON’T be afraid to put yourself out there,” said local business owner Debra

Harris, who has shared her tips and tricks for handling the pandemic.

Ms Harris is the founder of local virtual assistant firm Complete VA, and launched her lockdown business at the start of 2020.

She took the plunge after being made redundant from her former job, and now offers freelance admin, public assistant, marketing and event support to small businesses across Berkshire.

“Going freelance has been a long-term goal of mine,” Ms Harris explained. “Initially, I was unsure about going freelance in the middle of a global pandemic, but decided to go for it.”

While she didn’t launch Complete VA with the coronavirus in mind, she said the pandemic made her services essential for a number of local businesses.

“There are lots of situations which could arise during the pandemic where Complete VA could step in,” Ms Harris said.

“Some businesses may need assistance but are not in a position to recruit more staff, and for others special projects might come up which they don’t have the bandwidth to take on.

“I can provide valuable and flexible support in these circumstances.”

She said Complete VA has also been helping provide temporary cover for employees who have been sick with Covid-19, or were juggling work and homeschooling.

And after spending more than a year on the local business scene, Ms Harris is now advising other entrepreneurs on how to keep the momentum going as lockdown restrictions start to lift.

As for her top tip?

Keep networking.

“Reaching out to people who look like they may need help has been invaluable to Complete VA,” she said.

“Spending time on social media to look for business opportunities, and joining local business groups, has been great too.

“And remember: don’t be afraid to reach out to people or ask for help.”