Name: Mary Adelman
Company: Green Star Services
E-mail: greenstarservices@yahoo.com
# Years Self-Employed: 1

1. Tell us a little about your business.

Green Star Services is a virtual assistant company that does everything from travel arrangements to typing proposals, presentations, and much more.

2. Why did you decide to start your own business?

I started my own business because I have 20+ years experience and feel that I can bring that knowledge to my clients. With my knowledge, it relieves some of the pressure they face everyday.

3. How did you get started?

by word of mouth and past employees.

4. What makes your company unique?

My company is unique because a corporation or the general public can use my service for a nominal fee. Also if you are a corporation you do not have the added expense of benefits and sick time. My service also allows people to work at different hours and when it is convenient for them.

5. Were any special skills/training required? Where did you get this training/experience?

Yes - through prior experience with previous employers and also through networking in the business community.

6. What were the approximate start-up costs?

under $1000

6a. Did it require any special purchases (equipment, inventory)?

Just a computer.

7. What difficulties did you encounter starting out?

trying to build a client base.

8. How many hours do you work in a typical week?

40 hours.

9. What are some ways you market your business? What method has worked best for you?

I have flyers that were created that I have mailed to prospects, word of mouth, and through previous business associates. What has worked best is just word of mouth and networking with people.

10. What has been most rewarding about working for yourself?

I can make my own hours and still have time for myself.

11. What has been most frustrating?

What has been most frustrating is not having access to certain technology immediately.

12. How do you separate work from home?

I have an office designated just for work and keep it separate that way.

13. How do you handle working at home with children? (if applicable)

N/A

14. What advice do you have for others starting their own business?

Follow your dream and it can be done. It is as easy as registering your name and using your contacts from previous employers, friends, and family.