Secretarial Support International

www.secretarialsupport.com.au

1. Tell us about your business

We are a professional audio/digital transcription and secretarial support service providing companies, legal and academics and individuals with a courteous, expedient, professional service of the highest calibre.

2. When and why did you start your business?

Secretarial Support began 5 years ago out of a desire to work from home. I saw an area in the business realm that I believed I could fill and that is the many businesses who need struggle with enormous workloads but are unable or not wanting to bring on more permanent staff. My business is a great alternative and businesses only pay the for actual typing or working time and don't have to pay for all the extra things such as superannuation, Workcover, insurance, holidays etc.

3. On a personal level, what have you achieved with your business?

I have achieved a very professional standard and am working with some wonderful Barristers, Lawyers and Academics. It has been thrilling to work with "legal eagles" in America, Academics in England and numerous States within Australia. I have also been able to employ numerous people on a casual basis to assist with my work load, which I find really exciting.

4. What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in growing your business?

One of the challenges I have found is working out the best way to advertise in a cost effective way that is affordable to the business.

5. What activities have been successful in promoting your business?

The most successful thing I have found is sending out letters addressed to specific firms and not just generic letters and I also put a business card in with the letter as well. I have actually had someone say "I have your business card but I have not idea how I got it". I think busy people possibly toss the letter out but keep the card.

6. What activities were less successful for marketing your business?

I have advertised in local papers numerous times but I have not had much response at all.

7. Name your favourite thing about your business

If I can cheat and say favourite things and they are working from home and having a client say how good it is to work with us. Very satisfying.

8. Who or what other businesses or business people inspire you?

I am inspired by the "get up and goers" who think out of the normal routine and are not afraid to try something different.

9. What are your plans for the future of your business?

I plan to enlarge the business enough that I will have many others working for and with me and to also break more into the overseas market.

10. Share your best business tip with our readers.

I believe going the extra mile with whoever you work with and in all the things you do. It shows your clients that their business is important to you and in helping them be successful in their work it also rebounds and gives people the confidence to come back to you again and again.

Visit us at: www.secretarialsupport.com.au