Life Virtually

Ellie Clogher

Welcome to Life Virtually, the ultimate podcast for Online Service Providers! I'm Ellie, an Online Business Coach who built two online service businesses and I'm now here to support you along your business journey. This podcast offers a genuine and unfiltered look into the life of an OSP and creating meaningful success in your business. In each episode we dive into the ins and the outs of running an online service business! Ellie shares her firsthand experience as an OSP and real world examples from her work as an Online Business Coach, offering valuable insight and actionable tips. read less
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Is Offering Your Services Or Business Expertise For FREE, Ever Actually Worth It?
Apr 10 2024
Is Offering Your Services Or Business Expertise For FREE, Ever Actually Worth It?
It’s the season finale of Life Virtually and in this episode, we’re getting into it all! It’s a hotly debated topic in business that many have different opinions on. Some will recommend working for free in exchange of things like a testimonial or help with market research. Then others are utterly against that notion!! The thing is though, as an Online Service Provider, there are ways you could find yourself working for FREE without even realising it.  As we kick off the episode, Ellie shares a couple of useful reminders now that we’ve started a fresh new quarter, before diving into the recent “Social Media is FAKE Trend”. The varying takes people have on this trend.Why some business owners may decide not partake in this social media trend. The real lesson we’re learning from it when it comes to having REAL conversations. And Ellie’s own version, sharing what’s been happening here behind the scenes and discussing your mental health as a business owner.  We then ask the big question - Is offering your services or expertise for free, ever actually worth it?  Tune in as we discuss: Working for free intentionally vs. unintentionally.Ensuring that the exchange is fair.Ways an Online Service Provider can find themselves working for free without realising it!Looking out for scope creep.How people can feel entitled to your time and expertise. And when you might need to put a boundary down, even if you feel guilty about it! *Useful Links* Connect with Ellie on Instagram here.  Check out Ellie’s Coaching Services for Online Service Providers here. Learn more about the Society of Virtual Assistants Ireland here.

Episodes

Is Offering Your Services Or Business Expertise For FREE, Ever Actually Worth It?
Apr 10 2024
Is Offering Your Services Or Business Expertise For FREE, Ever Actually Worth It?
It’s the season finale of Life Virtually and in this episode, we’re getting into it all! It’s a hotly debated topic in business that many have different opinions on. Some will recommend working for free in exchange of things like a testimonial or help with market research. Then others are utterly against that notion!! The thing is though, as an Online Service Provider, there are ways you could find yourself working for FREE without even realising it.  As we kick off the episode, Ellie shares a couple of useful reminders now that we’ve started a fresh new quarter, before diving into the recent “Social Media is FAKE Trend”. The varying takes people have on this trend.Why some business owners may decide not partake in this social media trend. The real lesson we’re learning from it when it comes to having REAL conversations. And Ellie’s own version, sharing what’s been happening here behind the scenes and discussing your mental health as a business owner.  We then ask the big question - Is offering your services or expertise for free, ever actually worth it?  Tune in as we discuss: Working for free intentionally vs. unintentionally.Ensuring that the exchange is fair.Ways an Online Service Provider can find themselves working for free without realising it!Looking out for scope creep.How people can feel entitled to your time and expertise. And when you might need to put a boundary down, even if you feel guilty about it! *Useful Links* Connect with Ellie on Instagram here.  Check out Ellie’s Coaching Services for Online Service Providers here. Learn more about the Society of Virtual Assistants Ireland here.
Passion Projects, Time Zone Transitions and Business Moves with Sarah Whelan
Apr 3 2024
Passion Projects, Time Zone Transitions and Business Moves with Sarah Whelan
Welcome back to Life Virtually! One of the biggest perks of running an Online Service Business is the flexibility it offers. You can operate it from virtually any location! So in this week's episode, we're diving into navigating business moves. Joining us today is Sarah Whelan, a Social Media Strategist, Coach, Mentor, and the founder of Socials by Sarah. Nearly a year ago, Sarah and her family embarked on a monumental journey, moving back to Ireland from Australia. In this episode, Sarah shares her inspiring story and insights into the realities of transitioning a business across time zones and continents. Throughout our conversation, we'll explore: How Sarah's passion project paved the way for her successful business venture.The unique challenges and opportunities that come with relocating a business from one time zone to another.The importance of building connections within your industry and leveraging them for growth.The value of real life conversations in an increasingly digital world.Sarah's invaluable advice for anyone considering a significant business move. **Useful Links** Connect with Sarah on Instagram here. Learn More about the VA Foundations Programme here. Take Part in the Irish VA Survey here. Connect with Ellie on Instagram here.
Signs That You Are Experiencing Growing Pains In Your Business
Mar 20 2024
Signs That You Are Experiencing Growing Pains In Your Business
Welcome back to Life Virtually! In this weeks episode we’re talking about the symptoms you might experience, as an Online Service Provider, when your business is growing. Join Ellie to discuss the signs that mean you’re experiencing growing pains in your business and how to manage them too.  At the top of the episode Ellie touches the proposed ban of TikTok in the US, what that teaches us about unexpected and an important question to ask yourself too. We then delve into the signs that you are experiencing growing pains in your business! The thing about business growth is it’s not always fun and excitement. Sometimes it gets a harder before it gets easier. Growing your business isn't always pretty! We are continuously growing & evolving as business owners. Which means the processes, strategies and even the equipment that we use now, won't always cut it. But the thing is, because we don’t talk about the harder side of business much, we’re not really sure what to look out for!  Tune in to discover: The top signs that you are experiencing growing pains in your business Managing these business growth symptoms  Gaining clarity when you don't know how to move forwards And how to continue growing your business successfully *Useful Links* Learn More About The Flexi Mind HERE.  Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE.
Networking to benefit your business as an Online Service Provider
Mar 13 2024
Networking to benefit your business as an Online Service Provider
In this week's episode of Life Virtually we're delving into Networking to benefit your business! At the top of the episode Ellie updates you on what's been happening in her world including a very exciting podcast announcement. We then delve into networking to bring opportunity to your business vs. networking to find a supportive community. Ellie is sharing her experience and insight with you on what every Online Service Provider needs to know about networking to benefit your business! Tune in to discover: How to understand what your specific goal is for networking.Why networking can be more effective than social media to bring your business opportunity. What you'll need to prepare ahead of a networking meeting.And the best places to look for supportive community as an Online Service Provider. **Useful Links** Learn more about the Flexi Mind HERE.  Check out Ellie’s website makeover HERE.  Take part in the Irish VA Survey HERE.  Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE.
Reflecting On Ten Years In The Online Service Industry with Danielle Thompson
Mar 6 2024
Reflecting On Ten Years In The Online Service Industry with Danielle Thompson
In this week's episode of Life Virtually, Ellie is joined by a fantastic Online Service Provider who's sharing her business journey with us! Danielle is an Online Business Manager and founder of Spinning Plates Business Support Services. She is a veteran to the Online Service Industry celebrating her 10th business birthday this year and has so much to share from her time in business! Tune in to discover:  What it was like starting a Virtual Assistant business in 2014.How Danielle has operated her business throughout the years, to suit seasons of life.How she built a strong reputation and how that supports the longevity of a business.Danielle’s experience & journey in business growth.And how our industry has changed in the last 10 years. **Useful Links** Follow Danielle on Instagram HERE.  See what’s happening at Spinning Plates HERE.  Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE.
A Client Should NEVER! Identifying Red Flags As An Online Service Provider
Feb 28 2024
A Client Should NEVER! Identifying Red Flags As An Online Service Provider
This week on Life Virtually we’re discussing red flags!  Self employment and running a business comes with various challenges. One minute you could be flying high and then the next, dealing with unexpected problems that can arise with Clients.  So this week Ellie's addressing some things that Clients should NEVER do, red flags that should set off serious alarm bells within every Online Service Provider At the top of the episode Ellie updates you on what’s happening within both the Mini Mind and the Flexi Mind along with the Irish VA Survey.  We then delve into spotting and looking out for red flags as an Online Service Provider with your clients!  Tune in to discover:  Red flags to look out for in the onboarding process.Something a client should never do communication wise yet Ellie is hearing a lot about recently!Spotting the red flags that come with scope of work creep.And what do to when you’ve got that fishy feeling about a Client! **Useful Links**  Take part in the Irish VA Survey HERE. Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE.  Book a 1:1 to elevate your Online Service Business HERE.
Specialising Services, Building Teams and Launch Lessons with Victoria Marshall
Feb 21 2024
Specialising Services, Building Teams and Launch Lessons with Victoria Marshall
In this week’s episode of Life Virtually, Ellie is joined by a fantastic Online Service Provider who’s sharing her business journey with us!  Victoria is a Digital Marketing Strategist and founder of The Virtual Collab. In January 2022 she started her business as a general Virtual Assistant and things have evolved so much since then!  Tune in to discover: How specialising her services changed the direction of Victoria’s businessWhy building genuine connections is so important Victoria’s experience in expanding her teamAnd her INVALUABLE tips & insight when it comes to launches in your business  **Useful Links** Connect with Victoria on Instagram HERE. See what's happening at The Virtual Collab HERE. Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE.
What You Need To Know About Making A Big Pivot In Your Business
Feb 14 2024
What You Need To Know About Making A Big Pivot In Your Business
In this episode of Life Virtually, Ellie is delving into what it takes to pivot your business, two years on since she made a big pivot herself! Every Online Service Provider will decide to make changes and pivot their business at some point or another.  Whether it be becoming more specialised in your services, for example a general Virtual Assistant might decide to pivot and specialise as a Social Media Manager. Or up levelling into Online Business Management! You may even decide to take your business in a whole new direction. At the top of the episode, Ellie updates you on what’s been happening throughout the week as well as giving you some insight into her secret new programme, the Flexi Mind!  Then we delve into what it really takes to make a big pivot in your business!  Tune in to discover:  The two most popular pivots in the online service industry of 2023 How some if those pivots didn’t go to plan What those Online Service Providers may have been missing And what you need to be aware of if you plan to pivot your business this year  **Useful Links**  Book a 1:1 with Ellie HERE. Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE.
Dealing with and Protecting yourself from Copycats in Business
Feb 7 2024
Dealing with and Protecting yourself from Copycats in Business
This week on Life Virtually, Ellie is delving into an important yet icky topic. Dealing with Copycats in business!  Whilst the Online Service Industry is overall an encouraging & supportive place, many Online Service Providers have had to deal with fellow OSP’s copying their content, ideas, offers and so much more.  It’s something that every business owner needs to be aware of and so, in this episode we’re discussing: Taking inspiration from vs. downright copying another business Some of the experiences Ellie has had with copycats in business over the years Ways to protect yourself against them Plus some things you can do if you discover that you have been copied *Useful Links* Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE.  Elevate your Online Service Business with Ellie HERE.
Working Smarter in 2024 to Benefit Both Your Business and Your Life
Jan 31 2024
Working Smarter in 2024 to Benefit Both Your Business and Your Life
Welcome back Life Virtually! In the first episode of 2024 we're delving into how you can work smarter this year to benefit to both your business and your life. At the top of the episode Ellie updates you on what’s been happening in her world including a shift that she’s noticed in the Online Service Industry since the new year. Then, we delve into learning more about yourself in order to to be a better business owner! Tune in to discover: How to work smarter by identifying your most productive hours in the dayWhy what works for other people won’t necessarily work for youHow uncovering your strengths and weaknesses will help you to do better in businessThe methods Ellie used to become comfortable putting herself out there for business even though she’s an introvert!And why working with yourself is the key to success in both your business and personal life *Useful Links* Discover your Chronotype HERE. Take the 16 Personalities Personality Test HERE. Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE. Learn how you can work with Ellie to grow your business HERE.
Summer is a strange time for business!
Jan 29 2024
Summer is a strange time for business!
Join Ellie in the first episode of Life Virtually - The Summer Session, as she explores the unique challenges faced by the Online Service industry during the summer months. Discover why business tends to slow down, service enquiries decrease and social media engagement takes a dip. In this episode Ellie also reveals the massive opportunities hidden within this seasonal shift and provides valuable insights on how you can leverage the slowdown to your advantage! Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and practical tips on: Understanding the dynamics of the summer season for Online Service Providers Recognising the impact of reduced business activity and enquiries Leveraging the summer slowdown as an opportunity for growth and innovation in your business Whether you're an established Online Service Provider or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you navigate the summer season and come out stronger on the other side!! **Useful Links** Stay up to date with Ellie's valuable insights and updates on Instagram here - @ellie.virtual.coach Be the FIRST to access exclusive early bird offers for the Q3 Mini Mind by joining the waitlist HERE. Access a range of free downloads and resources for your business HERE.
Key Trends and Lessons Learned from the Online Business Space in 2023
Dec 20 2023
Key Trends and Lessons Learned from the Online Business Space in 2023
In this episode of Life Virtually we're delving into the key trends that emerged in the Online Service Industry this year along with lessons learned. Join Ellie to discover the trends that have made a comeback and the new ones that we'll be bringing into 2024! From social media trends, service offerings and how the cost of living crisis is affecting those to community and how in person work has seen a rise amongst Online Service Providers. *Useful Links* Apply for the last spot on the January Mini Mind HERE. Book a 1:1 with Ellie HERE. Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE.
Success Stories: Emily Pollard on Creating Stability in Business and Scaling Back to Achieve Meaningful Success
Dec 13 2023
Success Stories: Emily Pollard on Creating Stability in Business and Scaling Back to Achieve Meaningful Success
Welcome back to Life Virtually! In this episode Ellie sits down with an incredible Online Service Provider who's ready to spill the beans on her journey this past year, offering you a dose of inspiration as you gear up for 2024. We're joined by the brilliant Emily Pollard, Owner of Virtual Emily UK, who is taking us on a journey through her business evolution in 2023, sharing invaluable insight and tips to empower fellow entrepreneurs and OSP’s preparing for 2024. Join us as we delve into: Creating Stability: Emily shares how she created real stability in her business this year to ensure that this will always be her job! Achieving Meaningful Success: Emily guides us through the metamorphosis of her business in 2023, reflecting on the significant goals she achieved and the decision to scale some back. Understanding Yourself: Emily shares how her official diagnosis with ADHD helped her to understand herself better and in turn, become a better business owner! Top Tips for 2024: Discover Emily's top advice ensure real success in the coming year, leaving you motivated and equipped to conquer your business goals. **Useful Links** Connect with Emily on Instagram Here. Learn More about working with Emily Here.
New Offer Insights and Shaping Your Approach to 2024
Dec 6 2023
New Offer Insights and Shaping Your Approach to 2024
In this episode of Life Virtually we're talking about something that's even more important than goal setting - taking the lessons that you've learned in your business in 2023 to shape your approach going into 2024! At the top of the episode Ellie shares some common themes that she's noticed in her conversations with Online Service Providers recently. We then delve into the process of reflecting on your experiences from 2023 and using them to achieve even more success in the new year along with things to consider before introducing new offers in 2024! Tune in to discover: The experiences from 2023 that you should reflect onHow to turn those experiences into insight And using that insight to shape your intentional approach going into 2024 *Useful Links* Apply for the Mini Mind HERE Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE
Setting Financial Goals and Money Marketing Myths with Edel Hayes
Nov 29 2023
Setting Financial Goals and Money Marketing Myths with Edel Hayes
In this episode of Life Virtually, we're joined by a guest expert to talk all things financial in your business! At the top of the episode Ellie discusses an eye opening experience that she had this week and how she's noticed some online service businesses closing since the pandemic has ended. We are then joined by Edel Hayes, founder of Accelerating Accounting, to talk wrapping up your financial year and setting financial goals for 2024! Tune in to discover.. What you can do now to wrap up your 2023 financesHow to set financial goals and what to considerThe importance knowing your numbers in businessAnd Edel's take on the money marketing content lots of Online Service Providers compare themselves to! **Useful Links** Connect with Edel on Instagram HERE Download Edel's end of year Checklist HERE Apply for the January Mini Mind HERE
Using Social Proof to Market Your Business and Stand Out on Social Media
Nov 22 2023
Using Social Proof to Market Your Business and Stand Out on Social Media
In this episode of Life Virtually we are discussing why you should be sharing social proof in your marketing and how to gather it ahead of the new year! At the top of the episode Ellie shares her experience of attending Web Summit in Lisbon last week and why getting out of the home office is incredibly important to spark your creativity as an Online Service Provider. We then delve into why sharing social proof in your marketing will set you apart from other Online Service Providers out there. Ellie discusses the different kinds of social proof, how to gather it and share it effectively, touching on it's place in Authority building too. **Useful Links** Join the Waitlist for the Mini Mind HERE. Connect with Ellie on Instagram HERE.
Success Stories: Sandra Thompson on Achieving 2023 Goals in 3 Months and Her Continued Business Evolution
Nov 15 2023
Success Stories: Sandra Thompson on Achieving 2023 Goals in 3 Months and Her Continued Business Evolution
Welcome back to Life Virtually! In this episode Ellie sits down with an incredible Online Service Provider who's ready to spill the beans on her journey this past year, offering you a dose of inspiration as you gear up for 2024. To kick things off, Ellie shares some insight on crafting those crucial end year of notice emails to your clients - because communication matters!! Then, we are joined by the brilliant Sandra Thompson, Owner of Thompson Administration Services!  Sandra takes us on a journey through her business evolution in 2023, sharing invaluable insight and tips to empower fellow entrepreneurs and OSP’s preparing for 2024. Join us as we delve into: Fast Tracking Success: Sandra unveils the secrets behind not just meeting but surpassing her 2023 business goals in a mere 3 months! Business Evolution: Sandra guides us through the metamorphosis of her business, reflecting on the significant changes from January to now. Top Tips for 2024: Discover Sandra's top strategies and methods to ensure success in the coming year, leaving you motivated and equipped to conquer your business goals. **Useful Links** Connect with Sandra on Instagram here. Learn more about Thompson Administration Services here. Check out the Mini Mind here.
Raising Your Rate and Breaking Up with Clients
Nov 8 2023
Raising Your Rate and Breaking Up with Clients
In this episode of Life Virtually we're continuing the 2023 Wrap Party by discussing two conversations that most Online Service Providers shy away from - Raising your rate and ending client relationships. These conversations might be uncomfortable but they are crucial for your long term success in your business! Join Ellie as she discusses.. The key factors to consider when it's time to increase your rates and why this is the best time of year to do itThe tricky situation that many Online Service Providers find themselves in and fixing it before the new yearReasons you might want to end a client relationship and how to do it gracefully **Useful Links** Join the Waitlist for the next Mini Mind Connect with Ellie on Instagram Explore ruluvirtual.com
Setting the Stage for 2024: Your First Steps as an Online Service Provider
Nov 1 2023
Setting the Stage for 2024: Your First Steps as an Online Service Provider
Welcome back to Life Virtually,the podcast for Online Service Providers! In this episode we kick off our 2023 Wrap Party, as Ellie guides you through the first steps toward setting yourself and your online service business up for even more success in 2024. We begin with Ellie sharing her insights from a busy October in both of her businesses, along with a valuable lesson she's learned, which she's excited to pass on to you. Next, we delve into two crucial topics: taking Christmas holidays from your business and the importance of auditing your client roster. Discover why taking a break is essential and how auditing can help you uncover new opportunities and address any issues before the new year! **Useful Links** Connect with Ellie on Instagram Learn more about working with Ellie Sign up for email news & updates
Reaching Your Business Goals with Speed and Sustainability before the end of 2023
Sep 13 2023
Reaching Your Business Goals with Speed and Sustainability before the end of 2023
In this episode of Life Virtually Ellie is filling you in on three things that you need to prioritise if you want to scale or grow your Online Service Business FAST but sustainably before the end of 2023. We kick off with Ellie filling you in on a decision that she has made after re-evaluating her business priorities, why that's something you need to do from time to time and mindset switch when it comes to pulling back on things you committed to. We then delve into how you can ensure that you make the most of the last four months of 2023! Discover how to grow your business fast but in a sustainable way that will support you after you reach your goals. Rediscover the three things that you did when you started your business and now need to make a priority again to see real growth and get motivated to reach your business goals before the end of the year! **Useful Links** Join the Elevate Mini Mind Connect with Ellie on Instagram Sign up for email news & updates