Ever wonder what it really looks like to be a virtual assistant? We’re back with another installment of our “Day in the Life” series — and today, we’re spotlighting the amazing Cheri Johnson!

Cheri went from wondering if she could even do this VA thing to now managing her own subcontractor, creating a business that supports her family, and helping other VAs rise. Talk about a glow-up. 

We sat down for a heart-to-heart where Cheri shared all the real talk about pricing, subcontracting, packages, and how she built her biz using the SavvySystem virtual assistant course. Get ready to take notes — this one’s GOOD!

 

 

How did you get started as a virtual assistant?

After being a stay-at-home mom for many years, trying a variety of ways to contribute to our family income, I ended up going back to work full-time as an Executive Assistant for the company I worked at before having kids. I was there a year and was unhappy with the cubicle life and inflexibility available to me, taking vacation time to take my kids to appointments, etc. and was determined to find a way to do that type of work from home. I found virtual assistance and then ended up getting hired as subcontractor for an agency and then worked with one of my clients (they bought out my contract, so I worked as a W2 for them) for a number of years. I stumbled across the SavvySystem virtual assistant course, and the idea of starting my own business from home sparked something in me. I didn’t have any formal business training, but the course helped me feel confident in moving forward.

It wasn’t an overnight success, but I just kept taking the next right step, learning and growing along the way.

 

What kind of services did you offer in the beginning?

I started with general admin services because it felt like the most familiar place to begin. Calendar management, email, simple social media support — things like that. I didn’t have it all figured out, but I took on what I knew I could learn and deliver well.

 

 

How did you land your first clients, and how do you find clients now?

My clients have come through a mix of different ways!

One thing I definitely recommend is getting involved in local networking groups. I’ve gotten several clients that way. Even if someone doesn’t need your services directly, just being face-to-face and having those one-on-one interactions really speaks to your character. Those personal connections can open doors.

And then of course—the SavvySystem virtual assistant course. That’s been huge. I’ve landed multiple clients through the job opps posted in the private student group. It’s such a supportive space, and if you’re showing up, applying to jobs, and being active, clients will come.

Another place I’ve had success is Facebook groups. My most recent client? I commented on her post in a group, we connected on Instagram, and she booked a discovery call the next day! That was a first for me — but such a cool reminder that you never know who’s watching and ready to hire.

Really, it all comes down to showing up consistently. Whether it’s online or in person, keep putting yourself out there. Apply to jobs, engage in conversations, and just be willing to learn. I went through so many discovery calls before I signed my first client. Rejection was tough, but I kept going.

In the SavvySystem virtual assistant course, Abbey said, “It’s a numbers game.” And that stuck with me. 

Eventually, someone will say yes. You just have to keep showing up.

 

What has your journey with pricing looked like?

I started with hourly retainer packages—10 or 20 hours a month. But as I got more experienced (and faster!), I shifted into package pricing. It honestly reduced a lot of stress for me and my clients. They get what they need, and I’m not scrambling at the end of the month to fill hours.

I used to think I had to earn every hour I quoted, even if there wasn’t extra work to do. Now, I outline exactly what I’ll deliver in a package and price it accordingly.

And hey, ChatGPT has actually been a huge help with pricing and packaging! I’ll describe the work I’m doing, the hourly rate I’m aiming for, and it’ll help me create packages that make sense.

 

What does your day-to-day look like now?

I usually get started between 8 and 9am. I try to batch my work—mornings are usually client work blocks, and afternoons might include communication or content tasks. I’m working more hours right now than I want to, which is why I recently hired a subcontractor to support the client load.

I love that I can flex my schedule around my family. It’s been such a gift!

 

 

How did you know it was time to hire a virtual assistant subcontractor?

I hit a point where I was working way too much. I knew things would start slipping through the cracks if I didn’t get help. I watched the SavvySystem lesson on hiring a subcontractor and weighed my options.

Instead of training someone brand new, I chose to bring on a fellow VA who was already experienced and growing their own business. I reached out to a few people from the SavvySystem community and found the perfect fit.

For me, it was important to know what I was handing off—so I spent time creating systems and getting clear on my processes. It’s been so rewarding to not only get support but also create income for someone else.

I also use the SavvySystem subcontractor agreement to protect both of us. Things can happen, but I trust the people I work with and do my best to be the kind of manager they want to stick with.

 

What about boundaries? Were you worried about a subcontractor taking your clients?

Of course that fear crosses your mind! But I use the subcontractor agreement from the SavvySystem virtual assistant course, which has a non-solicit clause to protect my business.

But at the end of the day, I try not to dwell in fear. I want to create such a great working environment that my subcontractor wants to stay. People can make poor choices, but I choose to trust, prepare, and move forward.

 

What advice would you give someone just starting out as a virtual assistant?

Be patient with yourself. This is a journey! 

Get in community. Find accountability. Ask for help. Take care of yourself and don’t be afraid to pivot.

And most importantly — keep going. Come back to your why when things feel hard.

 

Final Thoughts

Cheri’s story is such an inspiring reminder that this whole VA thing? It works. 

If you’re thinking about starting your own virtual assistant business but not sure what skills to offer, we got you! 

Join our free training!

 

 

You might be one decision away from your own Day in the Life story. 

 

Want more of Cheri’s story?

Watch the full interview below to hear all the juicy details straight from Cheri herself! 👇

 

 

Cheri Johnson is a former Executive Assistant turned thriving Virtual Assistant. As a graduate of the SavvySystem virtual assistant course, she now supports clients with social media, admin tasks, and more — all while homeschooling her kids and managing a growing VA team. When she’s not working or teaching, she’s dreaming up her next home office makeover (with help from ChatGPT, of course).

 

Related Resources:

• SavvySystem virtual assistant course
• Savvy Vault tech training + coaching monthly membership
• FREE VA Savvies FB Community
• Free Skills Training