Beyond Success Online

Vanya Osmanlieva’s BIO

Vanya Osmanlieva is a Founder at Virtual Assistants company. The mission of Virtual Assistants is to make workdays shorter and help you focus on your core business activities.

Previously, Vanya gained her administrative expertise in international companies of various business industries – IT / software, insurance, building and maintenance of gas stations, import and export of various products, tourism.

Her educational background includes Master degree in Business Administration, Specialist in Business Management, Bachelor in Social Pedagogy, Specialist in Fashion Design.

http://www.virtualassistants.bg

IN THE SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

1. Please share with us what prompted the creation of Virtual Assistants?

Vanya: In 2009, when I founded Virtual Assistants company, nobody in Bulgaria heard of the Virtual Assistant’s profession. I used to work at various administrative positions in international companies. While having relations with my colleagues, business partners and clients, we met some common challenges in daily routines at work.

In fact, those challenges served me as a basis for my further career development. It was important to offer my clients efficient service which on the one hand saves them time, on the other hand saves them costs, so that they can focus on their core business.

The idea for the Virtual Assistants is not new but it is not famous and well-known in Bulgaria. I used to exchange experience and knowledge about the virtual services while communicating with people world-wide – both Virtual Assistants and users of virtual support.

2. There is no typical day in the life of entrepreneur. Please share with us a sample of your day, start to finish.

Vanya: My job is very dynamic and it requires that I communicate with people world-wide in various time zones. This is the reason why I do not have strictly established schedule. Fortunately, my team of Virtual Assistants gives me the opportunity to have some sleep, food and physical exercise from time to time. 🙂

Actually, I spend most of my time dealing with clients, going to meetings, organizing and synchronizing business activities of my Virtual Assistants team.

3. What are your ‘can’t live without’ Smartphone or desktop applications?

Vanya: In fact, I would give up using smart phone, because I have a Personal Virtual Assistant who has it.

4. What are your tricks for time management?

Vanya: I usually do the planning first. The right planning in combination with SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely) helps me organize my time. I usually use the Pomodoro technique for time management – http://www.pomodorotechnique.com/ . It usually helps me not feel bored and strengthens my focus and concentration on doing a certain job.

Of course, I can always use a specialized HR (Human Resources) Consultant of my team to deal with current matters and difficulties.

5. What was the best advice you received when you started your career?

Vanya: Sky is the limit!

6. Given the current economic climate, what has been your strategy for building awareness of Virtual Assistants? (what you do for short term and long term growth)?

Vanya: The company strategy is to offer virtual services and solutions of the highest quality at reasonable prices.

7. What is your proudest achievement as an accomplished entrepteneur?

Vanya: I am proud to have met and work with high experienced professionals from all around the world who show me that it is possible to make my long workdays shorter.

8. How do you achieve balance in your life?

Vanya: I keep positive thinking as long as I can and I surround myself with positive people.

9. Your top 3 book recommendations?

Vanya:

1. The Holy Bible

2. The Little Prince by Antoine De Saint-Exupury

3. “The Toyota Way: 14 Management Principles from the World’s Greatest Manufacturer” by Jeffrey Liker

10. What are your most rewarding charitable involvements?

Vanya: Virtual Assistants company supports freelancers and startup companies, providing them virtual services for free.

I was a volunteer in a Crisis center for women and children who were violated.

Nowadays, my company supports variety of social initiatives related to children with difficulties such as development of canis therapy in Bulgaria etc.

Most members of my team are mothers of small children who are not able to have a full-time job and being Virtual Assistants they continue to develop their professional careers.

11. Who has influenced your career the most?

Vanya: First of all, my family is the one who supported me during my long life journey.

My career was influenced very much by the Club of Entrepreneurs http://www.startitsmart.com/ and the Competition for Entrepreneurs http://www.3challenge.com/.

I am thankful to Start It Smart members, all my mentors and team of incredible professionals Virtual Assistants who continue to support me.

12. What is your advice for someone interested in entrepreneurship?

Vanya: Never give up! Just when you think that the situation can not get worse, then something incredible – a miracle happens and you just succeed! In fact, most people give up a step before they achieve a success! Be strong, passionate, enthusiastic, patient, self-confident and persistent. Hard work and loyal attitude are the basis for a grand success!